Glastonbury Tribunal and Lake Village Museum
Discover ancient Lake Village finds and iconic Glastonbury Festival memorabilia in a 15th-century building with a charming herb garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Glastonbury Tribunal and Lake Village Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Lake Village finds and iconic Glastonbury Festival memorabilia in a 15th-century building with a charming herb garden.
"A true Glastonbury treasure, blending ancient history with festival vibes in a beautiful medieval setting."
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Entry is a bargain at around £2-£4, with potential free entry for English Heritage members. :moneywithwings:
📚 Informative Guidebook
Grab the provided book for engaging explanations of exhibits and the building's history. :book:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Glastonbury Festival Memorabilia
Relive iconic moments with a unique collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the legendary Glastonbury Festival.
Lake Village Archaeological Finds
Discover ancient treasures from the region's prehistoric lake dwellings, offering a glimpse into early life.
15th-Century Tribunal Building
Step back in time within this beautifully preserved medieval town house, a testament to historical architecture.
Tranquil Herb Garden
Find a moment of peace in the museum's charming herb garden, featuring an impressive American Walnut tree.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Glastonbury Festival Connection
Medieval Architecture & Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Entry is a bargain at around £2-£4, with potential free entry for English Heritage members. :moneywithwings:
📚 Informative Guidebook
Grab the provided book for engaging explanations of exhibits and the building's history. :book:
🌿 Peaceful Garden Escape
Don't miss the lovely herb garden; it's a quiet spot to relax and reflect. :herb:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can be seasonal and sometimes inconsistent; always check the website before visiting. :alarm_clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Affordable Entry
Entry is a bargain at around £2-£4, with potential free entry for English Heritage members. :moneywithwings:
📚 Informative Guidebook
Grab the provided book for engaging explanations of exhibits and the building's history. :book:
🌿 Peaceful Garden Escape
Don't miss the lovely herb garden; it's a quiet spot to relax and reflect. :herb:
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can be seasonal and sometimes inconsistent; always check the website before visiting. :alarm_clock:
🎶 Festival Fan Must-See
A small but interesting section dedicated to the iconic Glastonbury Festival. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Glastonbury Tribunal and Lake Village Museum for its affordable entry, fascinating blend of ancient artifacts and Glastonbury Festival memorabilia, and the charm of its 15th-century building and herb garden. The helpful staff and informative guidebook are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. However, some visitors have experienced disappointment due to inconsistent opening hours, with the museum sometimes being closed unexpectedly despite advertised times.
"This was such a cool little museum! It houses a super cool collection of Glastonbury Festival artifacts, history, and memorabilia as well as an interesting collection of ancient artifacts from the lake dwellings. It also is itself a great example of medieval architecture and early 20th century maintenance and repair, and has a beautiful herb garden complete with the most impressive American Walnut tree. The docent hands you a book at the beginning that guides you through each space with brief but engaging explanations of what you are looking at and why it is notable. We very much enjoyed ourselves!"
RaeAnna Hammerbacker
"Lovely staff and museum only £4 entrance fee
It is a small museum but very informative and has 2 floors and a nice quiet garden to sit and enjoy.
Small gift shop and information folder so you can read about the architecture as you look around.
A small section on the history of the Glastonbury Festival as well as historic Glastonbury and a carbon dated boat that reminded me of as a child we had to make a viking ship for history lessons 😀 well over 40+ years ago.
I was a solo traveller and it was a nice quiet place to visit the volunteers are happy and enthusiastic."
The happy wanderer
"Great looking building. Guide was helpful and if you don't have English Heritage membership, it is only £2 entry fee. The exhibit upstairs shows a very interesting history line of the settlements and people that lived in area. Kitchen area was closed and I would have liked more information about the actual building itself. But worth a visit if in the town."
Diane Chambers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the heart of Glastonbury town, easily accessible on foot from the main high street. If arriving by car, there are several car parks nearby, though they can get busy, especially during peak season. Public transport options include local bus services that stop in the town center.
Yes, there are several public car parks within walking distance of the Glastonbury Tribunal and Lake Village Museum. Some are pay-and-display. It's advisable to check local signage for the most up-to-date parking information and charges.
Glastonbury town is served by local bus routes. The museum is centrally located, so alighting at the main bus stops in the town center will put you within a short walk of the attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally and are sometimes subject to change. It's highly recommended to check the official website or call ahead before your visit, as some visitors have reported finding it closed unexpectedly.
Admission is very affordable, typically around £2-£4. If you have an English Heritage membership, you might get in for free.
Generally, advance booking is not required for the Glastonbury Tribunal and Lake Village Museum. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for special events or during very busy periods, it's always a good idea to check if pre-booking is advised.
Yes, there is a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and local crafts. It's a good place to find a memento of your visit.
Information on group or student discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring directly with the museum staff upon arrival or by contacting them in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases a blend of local history, including artifacts from the ancient Lake Village settlements, and a unique collection of memorabilia from the world-famous Glastonbury Festival. The building itself is a significant 15th-century structure. +1
The museum offers a mix of historical artifacts and festival items that can appeal to various ages. The garden provides a nice space for children to explore. However, the historical nature of some exhibits might be more engaging for older children and adults.
A visit to the Glastonbury Tribunal and Lake Village Museum is usually quite brief, often taking around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest level in the exhibits and the time spent in the garden.
The museum is housed in a historic building, which may present some accessibility challenges. The ground floor and garden are generally accessible, but the upper floors might be difficult to navigate for those with significant mobility impairments. It's best to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility details.
Photography policies can vary. While personal photography for non-commercial use is often permitted, it's advisable to check for any restrictions on flash photography or specific exhibits. Always be respectful of other visitors and the artifacts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or extensive food services. However, its central location in Glastonbury means there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants nearby offering a wide range of dining options.
Generally, eating and drinking are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the exhibits. You can enjoy refreshments in the designated garden area or at nearby establishments.
Glastonbury town offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional pubs serving hearty meals to cafes offering light bites and international cuisine. You'll find plenty of choices within a short walk of the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
The 15th-century architecture of the Tribunal building itself offers great exterior shots. Inside, the displays of ancient artifacts and Glastonbury Festival memorabilia provide unique photographic subjects. The herb garden is also a picturesque spot.
While personal photography is usually allowed, it's wise to check for specific rules regarding flash photography or certain exhibits. Respecting the artifacts and other visitors is key.
Late morning or early afternoon can offer good natural light for both interior and exterior shots. The garden is particularly lovely when bathed in sunlight. Consider the season for the garden's best appearance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum is small, the provided guidebook can help make the historical exhibits more accessible and interesting for children. It's a good option for a shorter, educational outing in Glastonbury, especially if you want to introduce them to the town's diverse heritage beyond its spiritual associations.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combined with its central location, making it easy to access without extra transport costs, and the wealth of information provided by the guidebook, it’s an excellent way to experience a piece of Glastonbury’s history without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect addition to a day of exploring the town on foot.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
While not solely a festival museum, this dedicated section provides a concentrated dose of nostalgia and history for music fans. It’s a chance to connect with the spirit of the festival in a more intimate setting, away from the fields themselves. Even if you're not attending the festival, understanding its cultural impact through these exhibits is a compelling experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Glastonbury Festival Connection
This blend of ancient and modern history is a key draw. Visitors often express delight at discovering this unexpected link. The festival exhibits provide a tangible connection to the spirit of Glastonbury, making the museum a must-visit for many attending the town. It’s a testament to how the town’s name has become synonymous with both deep history and vibrant contemporary culture.
Exploring the Medieval Architecture
Inside, the museum's layout and features often reflect the building's original purpose and subsequent modifications. While some reviews mention specific areas being closed, the overall experience allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a bygone era. The building's preservation and the ongoing efforts to maintain it are a credit to the local community and historical societies.
The Tranquil Herb Garden
This green space is perfect for visitors to relax after exploring the museum's collections. It’s a chance to enjoy the fresh air and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the historic building. The garden's charm adds another dimension to the museum, making it a well-rounded visit for those seeking both historical insight and a moment of tranquility.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit