The Middlewick has always been the perfect base from which to experience the best of Somerset – whether that means exploring the local nature reserves as a family or visiting nearby stone circles with your retreat group.

Glastonbury town itself has so much to offer that almost all our guests set aside part of their trip for a ‘Glastonbury day’. With an abundance of shops and heritage sites to visit, plus the famous Glastonbury Tor, it can take a day to make the most of this unique town.

But did you know that we also have a falconry experience with owls right on our doorstep?

Owl Enlightenment is a 5-minute walk away on our neighbours’ land at Paddington Farm, and we think it’s ideal for:

• Families: we think a trip to Owl Enlightenment is an educational adventure that beats the classroom any day.
• Groups: if you’re here for a retreat or a special celebration, a private flying session is a fantastic way to bond.
• Solo travellers: many of our guests come here alone to de-stress. What better way to stay present and grounded than with an owl experience?

A different approach to falconry

Michelle Blackmore of Owl Enlightenment takes an unusual a restraint-free approach to falconry, treating the owls as respected individuals. Interactions are guided by the owl’s willingness to participate, welfare and mood.

Make a day of it with a nature walk

For those who want to truly immerse themselves, Michelle also collaborates with Matt Witt from To the Trees for Tree Walk and Owl experiences. It’s a wonderful way to spend a few hours before returning to The Middlewick for a dip in our heated pool.

Other activities close to The Middlewick

When you stay with us, you are just a 30-minute walk from the summit of Glastonbury Tor, where you can take in panoramic views of the Somerset Levels. For wildlife enthusiasts, the nearby Avalon Marshes and RSPB Ham Wall are guest favourites, and Ebbor Gorge offers beautiful trails and seasonal wildflowers.

A 20-minute stroll through quiet country lanes brings you into the heart of Glastonbury town. Chalice Well Gardens and the Somerset Rural Life Museum are just down the road. Here are some more ideas for activities and excursions while staying at The Middlewick:

Nature and Wildlife

• The Starling Murmurations: experience another bird-related adventures – the world-famous murmurations at the nearby Ham Wall and Shapwick Heath nature reserves during the winter months.
• Explore the Best Places to See Snowdrops in Somerset: these little white flowers are among the first signs of spring, blooming in late January/February, and are a very important flower in Somerset.

Beach and coastal walks

• Somerset’s coastline is surprisingly accessible from Glastonbury. Our guide to Dog-Friendly Beaches in Somerset is a must-read if you are traveling with pets.
• A personal favourite of mine, Brean Down offers dramatic cliff walks, complete with a fort, and is one of the longest stretches of sand in Europe.

Culture and history

• The Glastonbury Mural Trail takes you on a journey to discover the town’s vibrant street art – a great activity for families, photographers and art enthusiasts. See if you can spot the mural sponsored by The Middlewick.
• Stone Circle at Stanton Drew: this lesser-known, but still impressive prehistoric stone circle is one of the largest in England. Dogs can’t go in but humans can go right up to the stones.

More magical creatures at Paddington Farm