Glastonbury Heath

Downs, Moorland in Somerset Mendip

England

Glastonbury Heath

A Frame Barrier on Ham Wall RSPB Reserve An A frame barrier at Ham Wall RSPB Reserve. This barrier is located at the eastern end of the reserve by Sharpham Drove.
The barrier is very restrictive with a width of just over 60cm.
The lock on the gate is not a RADAR lock, although the gate at the western end of the reserve does have a RADAR lock.
The trail through the reserve is a gravel track which is rutted, potholed, and uneven in places, and will be muddy and puddled in wet weather. — A Frame Barrier on Ham Wall RSPB Reserve Credit: Kevin Pearson

Glastonbury Heath, located in Somerset, England, is a unique and picturesque landscape that combines elements of downs and moorland. Spanning an area of approximately 2,500 acres, it is a diverse and ecologically important site. The heath is situated on the outskirts of Glastonbury, a historic town known for its spiritual and mystical associations.

The terrain of Glastonbury Heath is characterized by undulating hills, open grasslands, and patches of heather and gorse. The downs, with their gently sloping hills, provide sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The moorland areas, on the other hand, consist of wet and boggy sections interspersed with heathland vegetation.

This heathland supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a significant habitat for biodiversity. It is home to various bird species, including skylarks, stonechats, and meadow pipits. Additionally, the heath provides a haven for numerous insects, reptiles, and small mammals.

The unique blend of downs and moorland in Glastonbury Heath also contributes to its historical and cultural significance. It has long been associated with Arthurian legends and is believed to be the location of the mythical Isle of Avalon. The heath is also home to several ancient burial mounds and archaeological sites, adding to its rich heritage.

Glastonbury Heath attracts visitors who appreciate its natural beauty and tranquility. It offers opportunities for walking, birdwatching, and nature photography. The heath is managed by conservation organizations, which work to preserve its delicate ecosystem and protect its wildlife.

Overall, Glastonbury Heath is a captivating landscape that combines the charm of downs and moorland, providing a haven for wildlife and offering visitors a glimpse into the region's history and natural beauty.

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Glastonbury Heath Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.154497/-2.7544617 or Grid Reference ST4739. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

A Frame Barrier on Ham Wall RSPB Reserve

An A frame barrier at Ham Wall RSPB Reserve. This barrier is located at the eastern end of the reserve by Sharpham Drove. The barrier is very restrictive with a width of just over 60cm. The lock on the gate is not a RADAR lock, although the gate at the western end of the reserve does have a RADAR lock. The trail through the reserve is a gravel track which is rutted, potholed, and uneven in places, and will be muddy and puddled in wet weather.

Kevin Pearson

Barrier on NCN3 at Back River Drove

Barrier on the exit of the NCN3 path onto Back River Drove near Sharpham. Spacing of the path either side of the barrier is approximately 1m. The slope going up to the bridge behind the barrier is quite steep. The path from here to Middle Drove is a gravel path, which is uneven and rutted in places and will be muddy in wet weather.

Kevin Pearson

View from Amy's Picnic Area on NCN3 near Glastonbury

Looking east towards Glastonbury Tor from Amy's Picnic Area on the NCN3 path near Glastonbury. Amy's Picnic Area was built in memory of a local teenager who tragically died of an asthma attack - for information please see Link

Kevin Pearson

NCN3 path exit onto Middle Drove near Glastonbury

The gateway at the exit onto of the NCN3 off road path onto Middle Drove near Glastonbury. The space through the gateway is over 1m wide and 2m high, so there is no problem with accessibility, although there is a small lip at the bottom of the gate. The path up to here is a gravel path which can be muddy and rutted in places in wet weather.

Kevin Pearson

Lower New Close from NCN3

A view over the Somerset Levels at Lower New Close, taken looking north from the NCN3 path between Back Water Drove and Middle Drove.

Kevin Pearson

NCN3 path near Glastonbury

Looking east along the NCN3 path between Backwater Drove and Middle Drove. The path here is a gravel path, which can be muddy and rutted in wet weather.

Kevin Pearson

Accessibility Barrier at Ham Wall RSPB Reserve

An A frame barrier blocking accessibility at the eastern entrance to the RSPB reserve at Ham Wall. The space through the barrier is just 60cm, and the lock on the adjacent gate is not a RADAR lock. The local authority have been advised of the problems that disabled people have accessing this facility.

Kevin Pearson

Swan family on the Glastonbury Canal at Ham Wall

A pair of Mute Swans with two cygnets beside the Glastonbury Canal at Ham Wall RSPB reserve.

Kevin Pearson

Glastonbury Canal, Ham Wall

PAUL FARMER

Site of Sharpham Level Crossing

PAUL FARMER

Lane heading south

Rob Purvis

Gate and Stile near former Thurlbury Station

PAUL FARMER

River Brue

As it runs across the Somerset Levels the Brue is heavily canalised and runs in straight man made channels. This is just west of Glastonbury. In the background can be seen Glastonbury Tor.

Nigel Mykura