Best known for its world-famous music festival, there’s much more to Glastonbury than big bands and rock ’n’ roll. Doused in spirituality, the town is a popular year-round tourist destination thanks to its healing waters, the imposing Glastonbury Tor and its fascinating Abbey. Plus, our Glastonbury hotel is conveniently located on the edge of the town centre, a short walk from all the main attractions. The town also has a thriving food and nightlife scene – whether it’s vegetarian and vegan options, buzzing cafés and coffee shops or some seriously historic countryside pubs, there’s plenty to entertain you, so you’ll never be left wondering what to do in Glastonbury outside of festival season. But when the circus does come to town – and by circus, we mean over 200,000 guests and workers each year – there are few better places to be than in Glastonbury.
Things to do in Glastonbury
Places to eat
Given its spiritual base, it’s no surprise that Glastonbury is a real hub for vegans and vegetarians, with plenty of organic, dairy-free and gluten-free options. However, the real attraction is the sheer diversity of cafés, restaurants and bistros in town, catering for every taste bud and budget.
Shopping
A local institution since 1999, Glastonbury Market takes place on the fourth Saturday of every month around Market Cross in the heart of Glastonbury. Running from 9pm-2am, you can pick up a wide range of local produce including fresh eggs, bread, organic vegetables, local cheese and cakes.
A mile south of Glastonbury in Lower Leigh is Clarks Village, an outlet shopping centre which is home to over 90 stores including Gap, Calvin Klein, Clarks, Next and M&S, as well as 14 cafés and restaurants spanning coffee shops, chocolate boutiques, pizza joints and more.
For something out of the ordinary and for those looking for unique gift ideas, head to Somerset Crafts several miles west of Glastonbury. An arts and crafts centre, it’s packed with artists, galleries, workshops and stores selling everything from boutique bathroom items to ceramics, jewellery and wood turning.
Getting Around
Just 40 minutes by car, Bristol Airport is 20 miles from Glastonbury and the nearest international airport with flights across the UK and Europe. If you’re not driving or getting a taxi, you’ll need to take two buses, while will take roughly two hours with a change at Temple Meads in Bristol. Alternatively, you can make your journey even easier by staying the night before or after your flight at one of our hotels near Bristol Airport.
The nearest train station to Glastonbury is Castle Gary Train Station, which is around five miles from the town centre. If you’re coming for the festival, you can use your entry ticket to get a free shuttle bus from the train station to the grounds during the festival.
Shopping in Glastonbury
