Glastonbury Abbey becomes the latest Visitor Attraction to join the Access Card scheme, offering a free companion entry for all Card Holder with +1.
Glastonbury Abbey has legendary status as the earliest Christian monastic site in Britain and by Domesday it was the wealthiest abbey in England. One of its great abbots, St Dunstan devised the coronation ceremony still used today, including that for Queen Elizabeth II.
The abbey played a major part in the development of Arthurian legend and visitors could be following in the footsteps of the legendary King Arthur, whose grave monks in the 12th century claimed to have discovered. They can also take the opportunity to see the Holy Thorn, believed to be descended from the staff of Joseph of Arimathea.
The abbey featured in Matthew Paris’ map of the world in 1250 and today continues to attract visitors from around the globe, keen to discover the history, heritage, myths, legends and spirituality of this nationally important ancient monument in the heart of Somerset.
Our visitors can meet characters from its historic past who give colourful insights with free tours of the ruins; there’s also a gift shop, seasonal outdoor café and an active events calendar.
Janet Bell, abbey director, said:
“Although this ancient monument presents some challenges due to its ruined buildings and its situation in 36 acres of undulating parkland, we are delighted to accept the Access Card as we want the abbey to be as accessible to as many people as possible.
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“We have produced a detailed overview of what is available (visit the link here) and accessibility is a key factor in all our decisions as we work towards making improvements for visitors.
“The abbey and its grounds is a beautiful location and we are keen for as many people to enjoy it as possible. All of us who work and volunteer here will be happy to help in any way we can and we are always keen to hear constructive suggestions of where we can make improvements to further enhance a visitor’s experience.”
Martin Austin, MD of Nimbus said:
“We’re really pleased to see visitor destinations like Glastonbury Abbey be so proactive in welcoming and information disabled guests. The detailed access statement available from the website presents a great overview of the facilities available allowing / empowering disabled people to make their own decision as to whether the Abby and grounds are accessible for them.
Passporting the Access Card to grant a free companion ticket for those that require it makes it even easier for people to make the most of their visit.
