Glastonbury. The Tor. The Abbey. The Chalice Well. There’s no doubt that this small corner of Somerset holds a special kind of magic, but there’s one time of year when its energies are particularly vibrant: Beltane.
Early May is a great time to plan a retreat in the UK; sitting at that pivotal point between spring and summer, it’s when the energies of the Earth burst forth. This is one of the most beautiful times of year in Somerset. The hedgerows are vibrantly green and leafy, and the temperature outside warms a little, so that even with the odd sprinkling of rain, it’s fun to spend time outdoors.
Because so many people are looking for a the kind of spiritual connection that a stay in Glastonbury offers, timing your event around this fire festival is a brilliant idea. So, how do you capture that potent energy and weave it into a truly unforgettable experience for your group?
When is Beltane, and what’s it all about?
Beltane (or May Day) is one of the eight major festivals in the Celtic Wheel of the Year. It is traditionally celebrated on May 1st, marking the halfway point between the Spring Equinox and the Summer Solstice.
Beltane marks the start of the fertile summer season. It’s a time of creativity, passion, and growth. Its opposite is Samhain on the Wheel of the Year, and just like at this time, the veil between worlds is considered to be thin. In Glastonbury, Beltane feels infused with faerie energy, mischief and play. In short: it’s a wildly joyful, abundant and fertile time!
What makes Beltane in Glastonbury unique?
Glastonbury has its own Beltane celebrations, with a procession of Green Men, dragons, a maypole, dancing and general merriment.
The Isle of Avalon, upon which Glastonbury sits, is steeped in ancient myth. Glastonbury Tor, which we’re lucky enough to see from The Middlewick, is reputed to be the home of Gwyn ap Nudd, king of the faeries.
The town itself, with its unique blend of ancient history, earth-based spirituality, alternative shops and mystical atmosphere, is a natural magnet for anyone seeking a spiritual retreat. And, we’re not far from other sacred sites, including Avebury, Stonehenge and Stanton Drew stone circles.
What kind of activities can you do at Beltane?
To harness the creative, spiritual, and fun energy of Beltane, focus on activities that honour the elements of fire and earth, such as:
- Magical fire pit: Group members can write down what they wish to manifest – or release – and safely place it into the flames.
- Create a flower altar: Our groups sometimes use dried herbs and flower petals to turn the hexagonal “Senary” group space floor into a mandala / flower altar.
- Flower crown weaving workshop: A fun, creative, and symbolic activity. Flower crowns represent the blooming of the Earth and the crowning of the May Queen.
- Ritual seed planting: Get your hands dirty! Plant flower or herb seeds while setting an intention for what you wish to grow in your life over the summer.
- Communal feasting: Beltane is a communal celebration. A delicious meal focusing on local, seasonal Somerset produce brings everyone together.
Ready to bring your own Beltane retreat to life?
If your work focuses on druidism, paganism, divine feminine or masculine energies, relationships or creativity, a Beltane retreat in Glastonbury could be the perfect offering for your students.
Each year we host sacred site tours, meditation, yoga and wellbeing retreats, women’s groups, writers, and creatives of all kinds, who are drawn by our unique location, flexible accommodation options, beautiful food and spa facilities.
We’re already planning ahead to our retreats and group stays in 2026 and 2027. We still have a some availability for groups in 2026. Please let us know if you’d like to create a retreat with us.
