Why go now?
Well, it’s the Glastonbury festival next weekend, of course … but if you can’t wait till then, Sunday is the summer solstice. Crowds will gather at mystical Glastonbury Tor to watch sunrise on the longest day of the year, and there will be meditation at noon at the Chalice Well peace garden. This being Glastonbury, there’s plenty of hippy action beyond the crystal and new-age book shops.
What else is there to do?
Later in the summer, Ray Davies will be headlining the Glastonbury Abbey Extravaganza on 8 August. But this is a lovely part of the world to visit at any time of year: as well as doing the town’s sights, such as the abbey, the ancient Chalice Well in its landscaped gardens, and Glastonbury Tribunal, a 15th-century stone house run by English Heritage, there are 12 circular heritage walks and four cycle routes in nearby Avalon Marshes, an ancient wetland area. The cider ride (past lots of pubs and a cider farm) sounds especially appealing.
What about further afield?
Wells is England’s smallest city, with a magnificent cathedral and medieval palace. Further on are the spectacular cliffs and stalactite caverns of Cheddar Gorge, on the edge of the Mendip Hills, one of Somerset’s three areas of outstanding natural beauty.
Where to refuel?
The Looking Glass Cafe, opposite the abbey, does a mean breakfast (vegan and gluten-free options available), as well as homemade main courses and a good line in cakes. More tasty organic food can be found at the Hundred Monkeys Cafe, a busy bistro and bakery nearby. There are pubs aplenty, too. Sup a local ale in quirky surroundings (upside-down bike and red phone box) at the Who’d a Thought It Inn on Northload Street.
Anywhere to stay for under £100?
To tap into the town’s spiritual vibe, stay at the Arimathean Cottage, something of a sanctuary, despite being on the High Street: it offers B&B from £70 as well as retreat packages. Out of town, Greenacres Camping (from £9 a night adults, £4.50 kids) has lovely views of the Tor.
