Public urged to leave no footprints at Glastonbury Tor as Winter Solstice approaches
We're being urged to respect the environment
As the Winter Solstice approaches, people are being reminded to keep their impact on the local environment at the ancient Glastonbury Tor to a minimum.
Somerset County Council say irresponsible vehicle parking on Stonedown Lane close to the Tor’s north entrance has been a feature of previous Solstices, with emergency vehicles obstructed, access blocked for residents, and farmers unable to tend livestock.
To help with road safety, a new road layout was put into place at the Tor's north entrance by the Glastonbury Multi Agency Group, which worked alongside the National Trust to keep disruption down.
Since then, and during time summer, levels of authorised parking have been 'greatly reduced', according to the authority.
Most notably, these levels were down significantly on previous years at the Summer Solstice celebrations back in June.
During the run-up to the solstice - on Wednesday, December 21 - police and parking enforcement will be in force.
Penalty notices will also be issued and and vehicles may also be towed away, if they're parking in an unauthorised or illegal spot.
Somerset County Council’s Lead Executive Member for Transport and Digital, Cllr Mike Rigby, said: “Since the works were completed in March, Stonedown Lane is quieter, cleaner and safer for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders. It’s helped farmers get to their fields and ensured access isn’t blocked for residents or emergency vehicles.
“This is not about restricting access to the Tor at the north entrance. There is disabled parking at the site for blue badge holders and plenty of parking in town in close proximity to the Tor entrances, with well-marked routes for walkers.
“We would urge people to help look after this special place by respecting the environment and, if able, to either cycle or walk to the Tor from town.”
Cllr Rigby added: “We know this is a very important place for residents and visitors alike, and we really want to ensure everyone enjoys marking this year’s Winter Solstice.”
Joel Bunting, National Trust Area Ranger, said: “We encourage conscientious visitors to come to Glastonbury Tor and enjoy the Winter Solstice, we ask that visitors are respectful of the local community, mindful of the livestock and wildlife and help us look after this fantastic site by taking any litter home with you.
“I would also like to remind visitors that camping and fires are not allowed on the site.”
Visitors are reminded that there is limited parking for blue badge holders only at the north entrance to the Tor.
Ample parking is provided in the town.
A detailed map can be accessed and downloaded here.