Introduction

The tale of King Arthur is one that is embedded into Great Britain’s rich history and still thrives today with children and adults. Like most lore, the stories are often disputed and slightly differ depending on who you ask. The legendary leader’s name appears in just about all historical writing across the island including Welsh, Scottish, Celtic, and British.

For those unfamiliar, King Arthur is a British figure from the 5th and 6th century, whose tales are larger than life. In fact, not much is really known of this King. Some even debate whether he existed or not. Some argue the stories are a culmination of different noblemen of that time. Nonetheless, these stories live on in today’s world with novels and movies written with his name. 

The legend of King Arthur has it all, drama, mysticism, conquest, and betrayal. The story begins with the birth of Arthur Pendragon and given the questionable circumstances of his birth he was raised in secret. The legend really starts to develop when the young Arthur pulls a magical sword from its stone place holder naming him the rightful king. Arthur would then eventually go on to establish his knights of the round table at Camelot, win many battles, and marry Queen Guinevere. Although many of the locations are often disputed, these locations are ripe with legend and will allow travelers to see a part of Great Britain they might not typically see.

The Great Hall at Winchester

This first site sits about an hour and a half from the bustling city of London. The castle itself dates back to 1067 founded by William the Conqueror but the hall was built in the mid 13th century. Looming over the great hall is the Arthurian inspired round table weighing over one ton of solid oak. At one point, it was believed to be the actual Round Table but thanks to modern science they were able to date the table between 1250 to 1280. Then in the 1500’s King Henry VIII commissioned the table to be painted with the names of the famous knights of the round table and King Arthur at the helm (looking quite similar to King Henry VIII himself). Although this is not the actual round table, it is impressive to see the influence the legend, King Arthur had on royalty and how his name still carries on to today.   

Cadbury Castle

Our next stop which is just over an hour from Winchester leads us to the possible kingdom of Arthur’s Camelot. Just like many of the locations associated with King Arthur they are up for debate but there is some evidence to make a believer. From a medieval military perspective, this location would make a great spot for a stronghold as it is elevated looking over the English knolls. In the 1960’s, archeologists were able to investigate the area and found that it was the location of an Iron-Age fort dating back to the 6th century; this is right around the time King Arthur would have reigned over these lands. Apart from this, the site has a gorgeous view of Somerset and gives travelers an opportunity to really appreciate the English countryside.   

Glastonbury Tor

Staying within Somerset, the next stop is 30 minutes from Camelot. As you drive closer, you may notice the lush green hill with Saint Michael’s tower sitting atop. This site has a number of peculiarities and connections to religious and mythical history. The major hill is terraced but it is still unknown how these developed. The connection to King Arthur lies within the Isle of Avalon and the battle of Camlann. It is said that King Arthur was gravely wounded during this battle and in an attempt to save their king he was brought to this Island which was said to have special healing powers. Travelers may wonder how the Glastonbury Tor is connected when it is clearly not surrounded by water but it is actually believed that marshy waters surrounded this site at one point. The location has even been referenced as Avalon in past texts. As you rest at the peak be sure to take in the surrounding sites and if weather permits you’ll be able to spot Cadbury Castle.     

Glastonbury Abbey

Just six minutes from the Tor sits Glastonbury Abbey which is thought to be the final resting spot of King Arthur and his Queen, Guinevere.This site has had many ups and downs with the Abbey being destroyed (due to various reasons) and rebuilt a few times. Although highly contested, it is said that monks found their remains on the grounds but after the dissolution of the abbey they were destroyed. Now, all that remains are the ruins of the past grand stone church that once was.

Dozmary Pool

Next, travelers will make the two hour drive to this legendary lake which is thought to be home of the Lady of the Lake. It is at this site in Arthurian legend where Arthur rowed out to the ghostly lady and she bestowed upon him the famous sword, Excalibur. Excalibur was then returned by the loyal friend and warrior, Bedivere who cast the sword back into the waters never to be found again. Peer into the eerie water and imagine the pale hand of the Lady of the Lake appearing with the legendary sword.  

Tintagel Castle

The final stop is just 45 minutes from Dozmary Pool. This location may be the final stop to the journey but is in fact the origin of the great King Arthur. It is claimed that Tintagel Castle is the birthplace of the legend. It is also believed that sitting under this coastal fortress lies Merlin’s cave where he spent countless time on the mystical arts. This Castle is the perfect ending location of this itinerary. Travelers can spend some time walking the grounds of this ancient castle taking in the spectacular sights of the Atlantic and listening as the waves crash into the British coastline. It is no wonder why such a magnificent location is said to be the home of such a legendary character.