Dorset and Devon Coast Trip, Days 1/2 (Sat 8th – Sun 9th May 2021)
Yes, I know Glastonbury is not in Devon or Dorset, or indeed on the coast! It is, however where we broke our journey south and is therefore a part of the trip as a whole. The trip from the North West to Glastonbury was tiring as there was heavy rain and wind for much of the journey, resulting in spray and poor visibility.
We arrived at the camp site, early evening on the 8th, it having finally stopped raining. The site is a small one, at the base of Glastonbury Tor, so after taking refreshment, we climbed up the Tor to the tower.
Glastonbury Tor
The path to the top is well defined, but extremely steep, so we arrived not a little out of breath. In addition, the moderate breeze which could be felt at campsite level, turned out to to be a howling gale on top of the hill. We could hardly stand up. It is a wonder that the tower is still standing, if that is the sort of weather conditions it has to withstand.
According to the plaque inside the tower, there is evidence of occupation from prehistoric times.
Glastonbury Town Centre
The following morning, we walked into Glastonbury town centre. Along the way, there are a number of colourful buidings.
There are old and interesting buildings and a wide variety of small and independent shops, many with a “hippy” flavour.
Glastonbury Abbey
Glastonbury Abbey dates back to early Christianity in England. Legend also has it that King Arthur and Guinevere are buried here. The nave of the abbey church was huge, both in the area it covered and in height. At its best, it must have been a magnificent building.
Chalice Well and Gardens
On the way back to the site, we visited The Chalice Well and Gardens, which is declared as “A place of sanctity, healing and peace, to soothe the soul and revice the spirits”. It is apparently a holy well, the waterds of which appear at the top of the garden in the well, then flow through it. The brown colour of the deposits left by the flowing water is due to the high iron content of the water.
There were several people meditating in the garden, which was quite peaceful, apart from the road noise. Paths take you around a circuit which enables you to have the best views. We found the garden interesting and relaxing, but I hesitate to go as far as to say that my soul was soothed.
Arriving back on site, we were later greeted by a nice sunset over the Tor.
"See-u-Later" 