The Glastonbury Town Deal has secured £23.6 million investment for the town, representing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver the objectives outlined in the Town Investment Plan
Creation of a year-round destination that will protect, interpret and make accessible the heritage and natural environment of 33 acres.
Creation of a year-round visitor destination to protect, interpret and make accessible the heritage and natural environment of some 33 acres.
The aim is bringing this ancient pilgrimage place to life, telling its stories, enhancing its wildlife and creating an oasis of wellbeing. Local stone will be used to mark out the footprint of Beckery Chapel and Priest’s House in 2026, enabling visitors to visualise the former monastic buildings. A round house is nearing completion and once open will be available for meetings and educational activities.
New interpretation is being created describing the site’s heritage and wildlife.
Nature-rich habitats and biodiversity will be enhanced, with a wildflower meadow and wellbeing garden is being planted for visitors and wildlife to enjoy, plus further planting has been done in the orchard at Chapel Field.
Who are the partners working together on the St Brigid’s Chapel & Field site?
The Friends of Bride’s Mound, Somerset Wildlife Trust and the South West Heritage Trust.
Why is this particular site in the Beckery area of Glastonbury important?
The project is on a unique landscape which has, at its heart, the earliest monastic remains ever found archaeologically in Britain. This is historically a place of pilgrimage centred on St Brigid (St Bride) and has several protected habitats & species.
What is the hoping to achieve?
This project brings this ancient pilgrimage place to life, telling its stories, enhancing its wildlife and creating an oasis of wellbeing. Enhanced public access is enabling a wide range of educational and volunteering opportunities, as well as connecting the site to the wider landscape through paths that link with out into the marshes.
Will the site be accessible to all abilities?
Yes. An ‘All Ability’ pathway has been installed with disabled access gates to allow wheelchairs, mobility scooters and other wheeled buggies to gain access to the St Bride’s Centre building. You will also be able to access the Chapel Field and up to the top of the Chapel Mound where the footprint of the early chapel will be displayed.
