#AD **This is an advertorial post in collaboration with Buses of Somerset. All words and opinions are my own. **
As a family, we love to spend our weekends outdoors, enjoying day trips and exploring places – in Somerset and further afield. So when we were asked to work with Buses of Somerset this winter to promote bus travel locally, we jumped at the chance.
There are so many beautiful places to visit in Somerset and we are incredibly lucky to live here. From historic towns and cities, rural villages, areas of outstanding natural beauty and rolling hills, to coastal wetlands of the Somerset Levels and miles of beaches – there is so much to explore.
Our Family Day Out in Glastonbury
If you’re looking for an interesting day trip in Somerset, Glastonbury has so much to offer. A town with a long history and steeped in myth and legend, there are plenty of things to do, particularly if you like to be outdoors.
It was easy to find a direct bus route to Glastonbury for our day out. We used the 29/75 bus route which connects Bridgwater with the city of Wells, via Glastonbury. This service also stops right outside Clarks Village in Street – perfect for a spot of retail therapy!
We hopped off the bus right in the middle of Glastonbury town centre which was so convenient (and without the stress of parking the car). The town is compact and everything is within walking distance, so it’s ideal for a day trip.
The town itself is quirky, with lots of different characters around, music playing, and unusual high street shops selling interesting gifts. You’ll find crystals, wands, healing shops, fairies, witchcraft supplies, interesting books, clothes and jewellery. The independent shops are full of colour with fragrant aromas of incense in the air. There are lots of cafes, bakeries and pubs to stop for a bite to eat. There is something for everyone. Here is our list of the best things to see and do in Glastonbury.
The Top 10 Things to do in Glastonbury, Somerset
1. Walk up Glastonbury Tor
The hike to the summit only takes about 15-20 minutes, and is another 15 minute walk from the centre of town. Although it’s steep, it’s worth the effort because the views from the top are spectacular across the Somerset Levels.
2. Explore Glastonbury Abbey
This grade I listed building and scheduled ancient monument was founded in the 8th Century and was once one of the richest and most powerful monasteries in England. Now in ruins, you can wander around the 36 acre grounds and explore the museum. It is said to be the burial place of the legendary King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. Legend says that King Arthur was taken to Avalon to die, although the whereabouts of Avalon was not known. But in 1191, Glastonbury Monks found a grave with two bodies of a man and a woman who were buried with a lead cross which was inscribed “Here lies buried the renowned King Arthur, with Guinevere his second wife, in the Isle of Avalon…” The inscription convinced Medieval people that this was the grave of Arthur.
3. Discover Glastonbury Mural Trail
Pick up a free map from the Information Centre in town, or download a copy here. This arts trail around the town is continually evolving and now has over 50 murals to find.
4. Visit the Somerset Rural Life Museum
Discover more about the counties heritage and explore rural life and social history from the 1800’s onwards. Pay once and get in for free for the rest of the year. Check out what’s on here, for the latest events and exhibitions.
5. Enjoy afternoon tea
There are many different options for afternoon tea or lunch in Glastonbury. We stopped off at The Blue Note Cafe in the High Street which had the best homemade carrot cake from the selection we tried.
6. Discover the unique shops in Glastonbury Town Centre
Glastonbury offers a unique shopping experience with the quirky independent shops in the town centre. There is a weekly market on Tuesdays and often vintage and craft markets held in town too.
7. Visit Chalice Well and Gardens
Discover one of Britain’s ancient Holy Wells surrounded by peaceful gardens. The water from this natural spring is tainted red from its high iron content and is one of two springs that rise up at the foot of Glastonbury Tor. Legend says that the reason the waters became red is as a result of Joseph of Arimathea burying two cruets containing the blood from Christ’s wounds below the adjacent Chalice Hill. Due to its association with the Holy Grail legend the water is said to have healing properties.
8. Find the White Spring and Victorian Well House
The second spring at the foot of Glastonbury Tor is the White Spring. So called due to the high calcite levels. There are a series of pools, and you can fill up your water bottles with the spring water from the outlet next to the Victorian Well House. The current opening hours are Tuesday, Friday and Sunday 1.30pm to 4.30pm.
9. Explore The Tribunal Museum
Although this Glastonbury Museum is not currently open as it’s under development, you can’t miss the beautiful 15th Century building as you walk along the High Street. The Museum houses the Glastonbury Lake Village Collection – Iron Age artifacts that were discovered locally. Entry is free to English Heritage Members.
10. Have fun in Abbey Park and Play Area
Just a short walk from the town centre you’ll find Abbey Park and children’s playground. The ideal spot for a picnic under the trees in the summer months or a hot picnic in winter!
If you want a circular walking route in Glastonbury (which includes all the things above), click here for directions.
Buses of Somerset
Buses of Somerset (part of First Bus) operate 40 bus routes around Somerset, connecting the counties cities, towns and villages, beaches and attractions. Click here for timetables, routes, prices and further information.
£2 capped bus fares across Somerset
Did you know that single ticket bus fares are capped at just £2? So, travelling by bus is an affordable way to travel. The £2 fare cap for any single journey across Somerset will stay in place for the entire year (2024).
On a side note, if you’re travelling in Taunton, single bus fares are capped at just £1. So, whether you’re going shopping, meeting up with friends for lunch or going to a museum, consider leaving your car at home and take the bus. For more information, click here.
Sustainable Travel in Somerset
Travelling by bus is a more sustainable way to travel. By replacing car journeys with public transport you can help reduce CO2 emissions which is better for public health and the environment, making Somerset a greener place to live.
If you’re looking for an interesting day out with the kids in Somerset, we recommend Glastonbury. We enjoyed our family day out on the bus, it was great value for money, all our buses were on time, there was so much to keep us busy all day and the kids always love a ride on the bus.
There is so much to explore in Somerset – where will your next adventure take you?
Next, read this blog post Visit Wells with Kids: The Ultimate Guide
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