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The Grounds

Glastonbury Abbey is set in 36 beautifully peaceful acres of parkland in the centre of the ancient market town of Glastonbury.

Willow Sculpture - click for enlargementMany believe that the Holy Thorn tree that can be seen in the grounds originated from the staff of Joseph of Arimathea. Others are convinced that King Arthur and Queen Guinevere are buried in the Abbey grounds. Whatever one believes, the facts are that the ruins are unique. The grounds provide a spot of peace and tranquillity in an otherwise hectic world.

The new Visitor Centre with its award winning Museum, featuring a model of the Abbey as it might have looked in 1539, together with a display of the town; a Children's Display and the magnificent 16th century Othery Cope is an excellent place to visit.

The Abbey grounds include a Gift Shop, Fish and Duck ponds, Cider Orchard, Picnic Area and a Wildlife Area with a Badger Boardwalk! The grounds are largely wheelchair accessible. A large print map can be made available on request as well as a guided tour of the grounds in Braille with an accompanying written version.

Places of Interest

During your visit to Glastonbury Abbey, be sure to visit the following areas of interest:

      
  • Monk's Kitchen
  • Refectory
  • Reredorter
  • Picnic Area
  • Wildlife Area
  • Fish Pond
  • Cider Orchard
  • Holy Thorn
  • Lady Chapel
  • St. Patrick's Chapel
  • Duck Pond
  • Display, including model
Duck Pond and reeds - click for enlargementView Of The Abbots Kitchen - click for enlargement

If you would like to see a map of the Glastonbury Abbey's grounds which includes all of the sites listed above, please click here.

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