Chalice Well: The Ancient Sacred Spring of Glastonbury
Discover the mystical Chalice Well, a sacred spring in Glastonbury famed for healing waters, ancient legends, and tranquil gardens.
Nestled at the foot of Glastonbury Tor, Chalice Well is one of Britain’s oldest continuously flowing springs, famed for its iron-rich red waters and deep spiritual significance. Surrounded by tranquil gardens, this sacred site is linked to legends of the Holy Grail, Celtic and Druidic traditions, and mystical symbolism. Visitors come to experience its peaceful atmosphere, healing waters, and rich tapestry of myth and history.
A brief summary to Chalice Well
- Chalice Well Trust, 85-89 Chilkwell St, Glastonbury, BA6 8DD, GB
- +441458831154
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Observe the daily Silent Minute at noon and 3 pm, marked by a bell, for a moment of peaceful reflection.
- Bring a bottle to collect the iron-rich water from the Lion’s Head fountain, believed to have healing properties.
- Respect the silence and tranquility of the gardens to preserve the sanctuary’s peaceful atmosphere.
- Explore the surrounding gardens and the Holy Thorn Tree, which flowers twice a year and has deep local significance.
- Visit during spring or early summer for the best experience of the garden’s blooms and fewer crowds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the bus service from Glastonbury town center to Chilkwell Street, with a journey time of approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run regularly during the day but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. Walking from the bus stop to Chalice Well is about 5 minutes on paved paths.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Glastonbury town center to Chalice Well takes around 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if you prefer a direct and comfortable journey. Taxi fares typically range from £7 to £12.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Glastonbury, a pleasant 20 to 30-minute walk along gentle, mostly flat terrain will bring you to Chalice Well. The route passes through parts of the historic town and is suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair users.
Chalice Well location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Chalice Well
Legend and Spiritual Heritage of Chalice Well
Chalice Well, located in the valley between Glastonbury Tor and Chalice Hill, is steeped in ancient myth and spirituality. It is believed to be Britain’s oldest holy well, revered by Celts, Druids, and later Christian mystics. According to legend, Joseph of Arimathea brought the Holy Grail to Glastonbury and hid it beneath this well, whose iron-rich waters flow red, symbolizing the blood of Christ. The well’s water has been continuously flowing for over two millennia, providing a tangible link to the sacred landscape of Avalon and its mystical past.The Symbolism of the Vesica Piscis and Sacred Geometry
The iconic wrought iron and oak well cover, designed by Frederick Bligh Bond in 1919, features the vesica piscis—a symbol of two interlocking circles representing the union of opposites, the meeting of spirit and matter, and the gateway between physical and spiritual realms. This almond-shaped overlap is also associated with fertility and the Divine Feminine, resonating with themes of creation and life. The well’s symbolism intertwines Christian, pagan, and sacred geometric traditions, enhancing its aura as a place of profound spiritual energy.The Gardens and the Living Sanctuary
Surrounding the well is a lush, sunken garden filled with traditional English flowers, poppies, and ancient yew trees. The gardens offer a peaceful sanctuary for reflection, meditation, and connection with nature. A stone path leads visitors through this tranquil space to the well head, inviting quiet contemplation. The grounds also include the Holy Thorn Tree, a rare tree that flowers twice yearly at Christmas and Easter, believed to descend from the original thorn planted by Joseph of Arimathea.Healing Waters and Daily Rituals
The spring produces approximately 25,000 gallons of water daily, never failing even in drought. Its iron-rich water is said to have healing properties and is safe to drink, with many visitors collecting it from the Lion’s Head fountain. The Chalice Well Trust encourages a daily Silent Minute at noon and 3 pm, marked by a bell, inviting visitors to join in a moment of united prayer and contemplation, continuing a tradition started during World War II by Wellesley Tudor Pole.Historical Stewardship and Preservation
The Chalice Well Trust was established to protect and preserve this sacred site for public benefit. The property was once owned by Alice Buckton, a pioneer in women’s education and arts, who safeguarded the well and its surroundings in the early 20th century. Wellesley Tudor Pole later purchased the site to ensure its protection in perpetuity. Today, the Trust maintains the well and gardens as a living sanctuary, welcoming pilgrims, spiritual seekers, and those drawn by its timeless mystery.Chalice Well’s Place in Glastonbury’s Mystical Landscape
Set within the energetic heart of Glastonbury, Chalice Well is part of a network of sacred sites linked by ley lines and ancient traditions. It symbolizes the union of divine opposites—blood and bone, feminine and masculine, earth and spirit—embodied in the red iron water and the nearby White Spring. Visitors often experience a deep sense of peace and connection here, making it a unique destination for spiritual renewal and cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
