TOUR
REGISTRATION CLOSED
Fourteen sacred travelers from the USA, Canada,
Australia, Germany & Portugal
will meet at London's Heathrow Airport for the beginning of our journey on Saturday, July
18, 2015.
If you'd like to follow our daily tour activities, please bookmark this page and check
back July 18th - 28th.
If you wanted to join us this year, but were
unable to do so, start making your plans now
for our 2016 spiritual journey, which will be held August 6 - 13, 2016.
Full details to be posted soon on our website at www.SacredSitesJourneys.com
Experience and explore some of the most powerful sacred sites on Earth!
Join us for this spiritual pilgrimage to Stonehenge (Inside the circle!), Glastonbury -
the Isle of Avalon,
Avebury, Silbury Hill, West Kennett Longbarrow and possible Crop Circles.
Experience the powerful
energies and
understand the esoteric significance
of the mysterious stone circles and other power spots
that will come alive for you, as you walk the ancient pathways
and connect with the rich legacy of the Celtic Goddess Tradition and its Avalonian
Mysteries.
Participate in meditations and sacred ceremonies to
connect with this ancient land, the Ancestors & the Divine Feminine!
PRIVATE
ENTRANCES
STONEHENGE - Inside the circle!
NOTE:
Normally if you visit Stonehenge, you walk
around the circle on a walkway many feet away from the stones.
Through joining a group such as ours you are able to be inside the circle to experience
their powerful energies!
GLASTONBURY: The Chalice Well, fountainhead of the Red Spring
GLASTONBURY: The Well House for the White Spring
GLASTONBURY:
Goddess
Temple with
Lynne Orchard, Priestess of Avalon
BATH: Private Entrance into the Cross Bath
OTHER
SACRED SITES YOU'LL EXPERIENCE:
WILTSHIRE
World-famous
Avebury, Silbury Hill and West Kennett Longbarrow, all a part of the ancient temple
landscape
of the Salisbury Plain, where you will experience the powerfully transformative and
palpable energies
that have endured at these ancient sites for centuries!
CROP
CIRCLES
Our journey is
during the crop circle season.
We'll explore the strange and puzzling mystery of these intricate symbols that seem to
appear out of nowhere in the local fields.
(Admission to fields is subject to permission of the owner, at
the time of our request.)
GLASTONBURY
Glastonbury
Tor - Transcend the veil of time and place and connect with the lingering energies
from ancient Avalon!
OPTIONS:
Glastonbury Abbey
WearyAll
Hill and Bride's Mound
BATH
Walking Tour of
the older parts of the Georgian city center
Entrance into the Roman Baths
WELLS
Wells
Cathedral, the Vicar's Close & Bishop's Palace, where sacredness has reigned for
centuries!
CORNWALL
EXTENSION - TINTAGEL & BOSCASTLE
Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur
Arthurs Hall of Chivalry
Merlins
Cave
St. Nectans Glen
Boscastle: Witchcraft Museum
Minster Church
PERSONNEL
Tour
Director/Featured Speaker: Andrea Mikana-Pinkham
Ceremonialist and Researcher/Teacher of the Goddess Tradition & Ancient
Megalithic History
Director
of Sacred Sites Journeys
Andrea has been leading our spiritual pilgrimages to England since 2004.
Andrea
Mikana-Pinkham is the Founder/Director of Sacred Sites
Journeys. She is an avid practitioner of the Goddess Tradition. In
July 2008 Andrea received the auspicious initiation as a Sister of Avalon
from the late Koko Newport, Priestess of Avalon during a private entrance and ceremony at
the Chalice Well.
Andrea has been an intuitive channel since 1987, bringing through the
energy of the Kumaras, teachers of the Divine Feminine. During a visit to Glastonbury Tor
many years ago, Andrea received the message that part of her service to the upliftment of
consciousness on the planet was to bring pilgrims to holy Avalon, which she has avidly
been doing ever since!
She is a Lady
Knight Templar and the Grand Prioress of The International Order of Gnostic
Templars, a modern-day spiritual Templar Order dedicated to the revival of
the Goddess Tradition and Gnostic Wisdom. Andrea is also a trained shamanic practitioner,
Reiki Grand Master of Ichi Sekai (One World) Reiki, and a spiritual counselor.
A
Message from Andrea: I invite you to join our
smaller group of spiritual pilgrims as we explore mystical sacred sites in and around the
sacred land of Avalon, today the area of Glastonbury, as well as in the ancient land of
Cornwall. I've traveled and led groups to these power places several times during the last
several years, and have always found them to be alive with the ancient wisdom and powerful
energies! During our sacred journey Michael, Lynne and I will facilitate meditations and
rituals to assist you to connect with the transformative energies of these sacred sites
and the Celtic Gods and Goddesses. As well, I will also offer optional group Sharing
Circles, which in the past we've found to be extremely supportive for integration and
mutual support. I'd be honored to support you to manifest your dream of traveling to
England, and will assist you to create the experience of a lifetime during this spiritual
journey.
Andrea & Harpist Peter Sterling at the Chalice Well, July 2009.
For more information about Andrea, Click here
Spiritual Tour Guide: Michael Orchard
Ceremonialist and Researcher/Teacher of the Goddess Tradition & Ancient
Megalithic History
Michael has lived and worked in Glastonbury,
otherwise known as The Isle of Avalon, for over 30 years. He has always had a
love for the ancient history of the place and all the myths and
legends associated with it. Over the years Michael has visited many sacred and
historical sites throughout the British Isles, and is fascinated by the cultures of
the ancient people of these lands.
For many years, Michael together with his wife Lynne, was the Guardian of
one of Britains most well known and sacred sites, the famous Chalice Well
Gardens in Glastonbury, one of the legendary resting places of the Holy Grail.
Here Michael personally welcomed thousands of pilgrims from around the globe, and helped
them to understand and to feel the special energies and legends of the holy well and its
healing waters.
Michael is a good communicator, and on his tours brings the history alive
through a skillful combination of myth, history, and local folklore
seasoned with some good West Country English humor.
Michael is also an accomplished Ceremonialist and will be facilitating
ceremonies during our spiritual pilgrimage at the sacred sites that he knows and loves.
Michaels philosophy of tour guiding is to give his groups some
background information and then to allow folks to feel the energies and the spirit of the
place themselves. There is always time to sit under a tree, to touch an ancient standing
stone, to have a prayer or a wish, or to dowse some earth energies. And after all the
excitement of a new place, there is usually time for a cup of tea or a spot of retail
therapy as well! Michael looks forward to meeting you and guiding you through some of the
wonders of ancient Britain!
Ceremonialist: Lynne Orchard
Priestess
of Avalon
Lynne
Orchard is a Priestess of Avalon who lives in Glastonbury. She has been a
Priestess since 2002. She became an honorary Priestess after being the Guardian
of the sacred Chalice Well in Glastonbury for many years. In her
time as Guardian of the Well, Lynne, together with her husband Michael conducted many
sacred ceremonies, celebrating the wheel of the year, handfastings, blessings, rites of
passage, naming ceremonies, and initiations. Since leaving the Well in 2005 Lynne has
continued to do ceremonial work and to deepen her connection with the
Isle of Avalon and to honor the presence of the Goddess and divine feminine within the
landscape.
Lynne also works deeply with people as a therapist, helping her clients
find their wholeness and integrity through a spiritual approach to grounded
bodywork. She works primarily with essential oils and massage, and with
craniosacral therapy.
Lynne has traveled to many sacred places in the world and her core belief
is to honor the earth and all living beings as a manifestation of the
divine play. Lynne uses ritual and ceremony to invite you to join her in
entering the world of the Goddess and to embark on a journey of deep transformation.
BRIEF
ITINERARY
July 18 25, 2015
Day 1. Saturday, July 18. Arrive Heathrow;
Group Transfer to Glastonbury; Welcome Dinner (D)
Morning group transfer departs London's Heathrow
Airport to Glastonbury.
Stop along the way for a quick lunch on your own.
Arrive Glastonbury. Check in at B and Bs.
Free time
Group Meeting and Introduction to Glastonbury/Avalon with our Guide Michael Orchard
Welcome Dinner
Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 2. Sunday, July 19. Glastonbury Tor; Option: The Abbey; Free Time (B)
Morning visit to Glastonbury Tor.
Return to town. Lunch on your own.
Free time or option to visit The Abbey with Michael
Dinner on your own.
Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 3. Monday, July 20. Free Time; Bath: Walking Tour or Free Time;
Entrance into Roman Baths; Private Entrance into Cross Bath (B)
AM: Free time
Noon: Depart to Bath; arrive and enjoy a Walking Tour with our Guide Michael. OR enjoy
free time.
Lunch on your own.
Visit the old Roman Baths.
Diinner on your own with the group.
Return to Glastonbury.
Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 4. Tuesday, July 21. Chalice Well and White Spring Private Entrances; Free Time; Private
Ceremony at Goddess Temple (B)
Morning Private Entrances at the Chalice Well and
the Well House for the White Spring
for special meditations and rituals facilitated by Michael and Lynne Orchard
Free time
Lunch on your own.
Free time.
Option to visit WearyAll Hill and Brides Mound with Michael
Evening Private Ceremony at Goddess Temple with Priestess of Avalon Lynn Orchard
Dinner on your own.
Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 5. Wednesday, July 22. Silbury Hill, West Kennett Longbarrow, Avebury, Crop Circles
(B)
Morning departure to the Avebury area; Arrive and
visit Silbury Hill and West Kennett Longbarrow
PM: Lunch on your own at Avebury cafeteria
Visit to Avebury, followed by time for shopping at the Henge Shop
Visit any crop circles that might be available, fitting them into the day as we can.
Return to Glastonbury.
Dinner on your own.
Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 6. Thursday, July 23. Wells; Free Time; Group Dinner (B/D)
Morning departure to Wells
Cathedral, Bishops Palace and Vicars Close and Gardens
Lunch on your own in Wells.
Return to Glastonbury. Free time.
Group dinner.
Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 7. Friday, July 24. Salisbury; Stonehenge Free Time and Private Entrance (B)
Morning departure to Salisbury: Walking tour; lunch on your own at Boston
Tea Party; tour of Cathedral
Depart to Stonhenge Free time to visit the circle on your own, the museum, gift
shop.
Snack supper on your own at the on-site café.
7:30PM Special access
Return to Glastonbury.
Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 8. Saturday, July 25. Group Transfer to London Heathrow Airport (B)
Morning group transfer to London's Heathrow International
Airport.
(IMPORTANT: Please book your flight to depart AFTER 1:00PM. Thank you.)
OR, Continue to CORNWALL
July 25 28, 2015
NOTE: This itinerary involves some long walks over rough terrain and at times
climbing a considerable number of stone steps.
Therefore its only suitable for those who are physically fit and able.
Day 8. Saturday, July 25. To Cornwall Tintagel Area:
Arthurs Hall of Chivalry; Free Time (B/D)
Morning departure to Cornwall via Dartmoor
Brief visit to the famous Lydford Gorge with its White Lady waterfall and the Devils
Cauldron
Arrive in Tintagel for a late lunch on your own
Visit King Arthurs Hall of Chivalry
PM: Free time in Tintagel for exploration on your own and/or shopping
Later afternoon check in at the hotel.
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Tintagel.
Day 9. Sunday, July 26. Tintagel: Tintagel Castle; Merlins
Cave Free Time (B/D)
AM: Visit to Tintagel Castle
Lunch on your own at the on-site cafe.
PM: Visit to Merlins Cave (tide allowing)
Return to hotel.
Free time.
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Tintagel.
Day 10. Monday, July 27. Tintagel: St Nectans Glen; Boscastle
Witchcraft Museum; Minster Church (B/D)
9:00AM Depart to St Nectans Glen
PM: To Boscastle Lunch on your own
Visit Witchcraft Museum and Minster Church
Return to Tintagel
Group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Tintagel.
Day 11. Tuesday, July 28. Group Transfer to London Heathrow Airport
(B)
Morning group transfer to
London's Heathrow International Airport.
(IMPORTANT: Please book your flight to depart AFTER 7:00PM.
Thank you.)
Service ends on arrival at Heathrow
FOR A DETAILED ITINERARY SEE BELOW
ITINERARY
July 18 - 25,
2015
(B
= Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Day 1. Saturday, July 18.
Arrive Heathrow; Group Transfer to Glastonbury; Welcome Dinner (D)
This Sacred Sites Journeys tour is LAND ONLY. You are responsible to book your
international flights to and from London's Heathrow International Airport. IMPORTANT:
Please book your flight to arrive by 8:00AM, so that you will have time to clear
Immigration, Baggage Claim and Customs and transfer to Terminal 5 (if you do not
arrive there) for our 11:00AM group meeting and transfer. NOTE: If youre not able to
arrive by 8:00AM, we suggest that you fly in a day early. There are several airport hotels
where you can spend the night. This will also assist you to overcome jet lag and be rested
for the beginning of your spiritual journey.
Upon arrival at Heathrow clear Immigration, claim your bags
and exit through Customs. Meet the group and Tour Director/Speaker Andrea
Mikana-Pinkham and our Tour Guide Michael Orchard in the
Arrivals Hall in Terminal 5 (full details to be announced in the final tour itinerary). We
board our motor coach for our drive through the English countryside. We'll stop along the
way for lunch on your own with the group.
Arrive mid-afternoon in mystical Glastonbury
- fabled Avalon! For centuries it has been the gathering place for those
following the ancient Druid and Celtic traditions honoring the Divine Feminine.
The Goddess is definitely alive in Glastonbury! In the sacred landscape Her body is the
soft rounded hills. Her love will whisper to your heart and be your source and inspiration
as it enfolds you during your time here. The small town of Glastonbury still preserves its
long history and rich traditions, along with a uniquely blended atmosphere of modern
times. People are pulled here from all over the world by a special something...just like
you have been.
On our arrival we check in at our charming Bed and Breakfast, located a
two-minute walk from the heart of downtown. We've been
using this B & B for our groups for the past few years. They operate a non-smoking,
shoe-free house, so please feel free to bring your slippers to keep your toes
warm. A sheltered smoking area is available in the garden. They have a come and go
as you please policy and provide
front door keys for all the rooms. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the house and
gardens. All rooms are en-suite with their own shower. All rooms
are warm and comfortable, with hairdryers and tea/coffee-making facilities, plus little
extras which makes you feel at home. Facilities: The focal point of the
house is the kitchen with its large dining table, where you can gather for tea, tarot
readings, and great visits with others in the group. They also have a guest lounge with
sofas, an open fireplace, TV and small library. For hungry pilgrims, a guest fridge with
drinks and chocolate is always available in the hallway. Extensive local information is on
hand and original artwork by notable local
artists is on display.
Gardens and The Sanctuary": The beautiful gardens are always
available for your use, with a rock pool and garden seats scattered around where you can
sit and relax with friends old or new, or quietly meditate. Despite the proximity to
Glastonbury center, the B & B is blessed with a quiet, tranquil location, making the
gardens a wonderful place to just be. Tucked away is the secret garden, great
to sit and meditate or to process all you have learnt on your pilgrimage in Glastonbury.
The Sanctuary, a large Meditation Room within the gardens is available for individual or
group meditation and is also used for individual and group therapy and healing sessions.
Take some time to get settled in your space and rest. In the later
afternoon we'll gather for our Introductory Group Meeting/
Sharing Circle with our Guide Michael Orchard and Priestess
of Avalon Ceremonialst Lynne Orchard. Michael will offer a short introduction
to Glastonbury and Her myths and legends, in preparation for our time here during the
coming week.
Afterwards
we enjoy our Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. We'll have a chance to begin getting
to know each other a bit by sharing our stories of how and why we've come to be here. Overnight
Glastonbury.
Day 2. Sunday, July 19.
Glastonbury Tor; Option: The Abbey; Free Time (B)
This morning we're off to Glastonbury Tor.
Rich in legend and mythological associations, the Tor may have been a place of ancient
ritual. Today, it is still a destination for spiritual seekers. The terracing on the
slopes of the Tor may be the remains of an ancient observatory, a
seven-tiered sacred mount, a great three-dimensional labyrinth,
a ceremonial way to the Otherworld. At the top of the Tor stands the remains of
the Medieval St. Michael's Church, dedicated to Archangel Michael. We take the
footpath to the top to enjoy its sweeping view of the Somerset countryside. Take time to
gaze at the landscape; you can see for miles. Though the Tor is a majestic hill rising
enigmatically above the flat surrounding meadows, it's no ordinary hill! Some say
it's home to the King of the Fairies, Gwyn ap Nudd, a psychopomp who helps those who cross
over to the Otherworld. Centuries of legends and folklore about the Tor all arrive at the
same conclusion: it is a place where the veil between the worlds is thin. You will have
time for individual meditation to connect to
these powerful energies.
Return to town. Lunch on your own. You have free time this afternoon to rest and relax or for some
individual exploration in Glastonbury.
1. Visit the St. Margaret's Chapel / Magdalene Almshouses and Garden in
Magdalene Close in downtown, for a time of peaceful meditation, prayer and reflection. The
original structure was built in the 1070's but burned down in the great Abbey fire of
1184. The present one was re-built in 1444. Today its a sacred space of prayer, sanctuary
and spirituality.
2. Take a walk to visit Gog and Magog, two ancient oak trees in Wick
Hollow thought by some of the locals to be the root chakra of the area. Others honor them
as the last remains of a Druidical avenue leading up to the Tor.
3. Go into St. John's Church in the heart of town, dedicated to John the
Baptist, one of the original teachers of the Goddess Tradition. Here you can view the
beautiful stained glass window depicting Joseph of Arimathea holding two vials of
"Holy Grail."
4. Or take in some Retail Therapy as you wander along High Street in the
center of town, where shops full of new and used books on every topic you can imagine,
Celtic jewelry, clothes, artwork, crystals and gemstone and many more treasures abound!
Photo Credit: M.
Czwerenczuk www.NeedAMassage.net.au
Or you have the option to enjoy a
guided tour of Glastonbury Abbey with Michael. Set in 37 acres of
beautifully peaceful parkland in the center of town the Abbey was built in the Middle Age.
It's described by some historians as "the holiest place in all of England". St
Mary's Chapel marks the site where Joseph of Arimathea established the first above-ground
church in all of Christendom. The Celts had a deity named Easus who died and was supposed
to come back to life. When they heard about Jesus from Joseph of Arimathea, they saw the
return of Easus in the story, and gave Ynys Witrin, or Glastonbury, to him as a site for a
church. This was the birthplace of Celtic Christianity, and grew to be a powerful
pilgrimage site. Many people believe that the Holy Thorn tree that can be seen in the
grounds originated from Joseph of Arimathea's staff. Graves thought to be those of Arthur
and Guinevere have been unearthed here. We'll wander the ancient grounds with Michael,
exploring their mysteries. You'll also have some time for individual
reflection and meditation.
The remainder of the afternoon and evening is free time. Dinner on your own. There are several excellent restaurants in the center of
town, just a few minutes walk away, that offer varied ethnic cuisines. Overnight
Glastonbury.
Day 3. Monday, July 20. Free Time;
Bath: Walking Tour or Free Time; Entrance into Roman Baths; Private Entrance into Cross
Bath (B)
You have some free time this morning. Then at noon we depart for Bath,
which was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1987. The city has a
variety of theaters, museums, and other cultural and sporting venues. Upon arrival Michael will lead us on a walking
tour of the city, which may include some of the following:
The Abbey
Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, commonly known as Bath Abbey, is an
Anglican parish church and a former Benedictine monastery. Founded in the 7th century,
Bath Abbey was reorganised in the 10th century and rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries;
major restoration work was carried out by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 1860s. It is one
of the largest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in the West Country. The
church is cruciform in plan, and is able to seat 1200. An active place of worship, with
hundreds of congregation members and hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, it is
used for religious services, secular civic ceremonies, concerts and lectures. The choir
performs in the abbey and elsewhere. There is a heritage museum in the vaults. The abbey
is a Grade I listed building, particularly noted for its fan vaulting.
The heart of the Georgian city was the Grand Pump Room in the Abbey
Church Yard. It's been designated as a Grade I listed historic building. The main block,
built of Bath stone, was begun in 1789 by Thomas Baldwin. It was finally finished in 1799.
The facade of the building features Corinthian half columns. The North Colonnade of 9
bays, with unfluted Ionic columns, was built by Baldwin in 1786. The South Colonnade is
similar but had an upper floor added in the late 19th century. The colonnades and side
wall of the Pump Room have a facade on Stall Street. Situated next to main street entrance
to the Roman Baths, you can sample the waters from the warm spring which fills the Roman
Baths. The building also houses a restaurant, where you could sample the afternoon tea.
The
Circus consists of three long, curved terraces designed by the elder John Wood to
form a circular space or theatre intended for civic functions and games. The games give a
clue to the design, the inspiration behind which was the Colosseum in Rome.[153] Like the
Colosseum, the three façades have a different order of architecture on each floor: Doric
on the ground level, then Ionic on the piano nobile and finishing with Corinthian on the
upper floor, the style of the building thus becoming progressively more ornate as it
rises.
The most spectacular of Bath's terraces is the Royal Crescent, built
between 1767 and 1774 and designed by the younger John Wood. But all is not what it seems;
while Wood designed the great curved façade of
what appears to be about 30 houses with Ionic columns on a rusticated ground floor, that
was the extent of his input. Each purchaser bought a certain length of the façade, and
then employed their own architect to build a house to their own specifications behind it;
hence what appears to be two houses is sometimes one. This system of town planning is
betrayed at the rear of the crescent: while the front is completely uniform and
symmetrical, the rear is a mixture of differing roof heights, juxtapositions and
fenestration.
Then you have free time for lunch and retail therapy. Later
this afternoon we'll visit the Roman
Baths complex, a well-preserved Roman site for public bathing. The Roman Baths
themselves are below the modern street level. There are four main features: the Sacred
Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman Bath House
and the Museum holding finds from Roman Bath. The buildings above street
level date from the 19th century.
How the hot springs form: The water that bubbles up from the ground at
Bath fell as rain on the nearby Mendip Hills. It percolates down through limestone
aquifers to a depth of between 8,900 ft and 14,100 ft where geothermal energy raises the
water temperature to between 147.2 °F and 204.8 °F. Under pressure, the heated water
rises to the surface along fissures and faults in the limestone. This process is similar
to an artificial one known as Enhanced Geothermal System which also makes use of the high
pressures and temperatures below the Earth's crust. Hot water at a temperature of 114.8
°F rises here at the rate of 257,364 gallons every day, from a geological fault. In 1983
a new spa water bore-hole was sunk, providing a clean and safe supply of spa water for
drinking in the Pump Room.
History:
The first shrine at the site of the hot springs was built by Celts, and was dedicated to
the goddess Sulis, whom the Romans identified with Minerva.
Geoffrey of Monmouth in his largely fictional Historia Regum Britanniae describes how in
836 BCE the spring was discovered by the British king Bladud who built the first baths.
Early in the 18th century Geoffrey's obscure legend was given great prominence as a royal
endorsement of the waters' qualities, with the embellishment that the spring had cured
Bladud and his herd of pigs of leprosy through wallowing in the warm mud.
Roman use: The name Sulis continued to be used after the Roman invasion,
leading to the town's Roman name of Aquae Sulis ("the waters of Sulis"). The
temple was constructed in 60-70 CE and the bathing complex was gradually built up over the
next 300 years. During the Roman occupation of Britain, and possibly on the instructions
of Emperor Claudius, engineers drove oak piles to provide a stable foundation into the mud
and surrounded the spring with an irregular stone chamber lined with lead. In the 2nd
century it was enclosed within a wooden barrel-vaulted building, and included the
caldarium (hot bath), tepidarium (warm bath), and frigidarium (cold bath). After the Roman
withdrawal from Britain in the first decade of the 5th century, these fell into disrepair
and were eventually lost due to silting up, and flooding. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle
suggests the original Roman baths were destroyed in the 6th century.
Redevelopment:
The baths have been modified on several occasions, including the 12th century when John of
Tours built a curative bath over the King's Spring reservoir and the 16th century when the
city corporation built a new bath (Queen's Bath) to the south of the Spring. The spring is
now housed in 18th century buildings, designed by architects John Wood, the Elder and John
Wood, the Younger, father and son. Victorian expansion of the baths complex followed the
neo-classical tradition established by the Woods. In 1810 the Hot Springs failed and
William Smith opened up the Hot Bath Spring to the bottom, where he found that the spring
had not failed but had flowed into a new channel. Smith restored the water to its original
course and the Baths filled in less time than formerly.
Conservation: The late 19th century carvings of Roman Emperors and
Governors of Roman Britain on the terrace overlooking the Great Bath are particularly
susceptible to the effect of acid rain and are being protected with a wash of a
sacrificial shelter coat every few years. Exhibits within the temple precincts are
susceptible to warm air which had the effect of drawing corrosive salts out of the Roman
stonework. To help reduce this, a new ventilation system was installed in 2006. In 2009 a
grant was made to Bath and North East Somerset Council to contribute towards the cost of
re-developing displays and improving access to the Roman Baths, by the Department for
Culture, Media and Sport/Wolfson Fund, which was established to promote improvements in
Museums and Galleries in England
We have an early evening private
booking for our group at the Cross Bath. This historic pool for bathing
was rebuilt, in the style of Robert Adam by Thomas Baldwin around 1789 and is designated
by English Heritage as a Grade I listed building. The warm water spring was possibly used
before the nearby Roman Baths were developed. The name is believed to commemorate the body
of St Aldhelm resting there on its journey from Doulting to Malmesbury Abbey in 709. The
healing powers of the bath were one of the reasons for the foundation of St John's
Hospital, around 1180, by Bishop Reginald Fitz Jocelin and is among the oldest almshouses
in England. In the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries the baths were frequently visited by
royalty, increasing their popularity. In June 1688, Mary of Modena, James II's wife, gave
birth to a son, Prince James nine months after bathing in the Cross Bath. The Melfort
Cross, was erected in 1688 to celebrate the birth. The bath was refurbished in the 1990.
We have 90 minutes to relax in the thermal waters! Bring your swimsuit!
Afterwards enjoy dinner on your own with the group at one of Bath's excellent restaurants.
We depart back to Glastonbury, arriving later everning. Overnight
Glastonbury.
Day 4. Tuesday, July 21. Private
Entrances to the Chalice Well and the Well House for the White Spring; Free Time; Private
Ceremony at Goddess Temple (B)
This morning we have a Special Private Access Entrance at the Chalice Well, a
pilgrimage site for many thousands of years for those seeking physical and emotional
healing from its iron-red waters, thought by some to represent the blood of the Goddess.
During the Middle Ages and in the 18th Century Glastonbury gained a great reputation as a
place of healing, and the Well was one of the centers where pilgrims came to take
advantage of its curative powers. Today the waters of both the Red Spring
and the adjoining White Spring still have a reputation for their
cleansing, healing and transformative qualities. Like pilgrims who have come here since
ancient times seeking physical and emotional healing from its iron-red waters blessed by
the Goddess, we too may receive our healings! At the bottom of the garden we stop at the
pool that has water flowing into it through a series of flowing steps from the body of the
Goddess Herself. We then continue to the main well, with its cover in the shape of the
Vesica Pisces, one of the most fundamental symbols of sacred geometry, symbolizing the
Sacred Marriage, the divine union of the male and female energies. Here at this ancient
sacred place, we have time to meditate and reflect on our
own Divine Union.
Then we
walk around the corner for our private entrance
at the Well House for the White Spring next
door to the Chalice Well. For thousands of years seekers have been drawn to the mythical
Isle of Avalon, which was once an island separated from the mundane world by an inland
sea. From its heart under the Tor, the water still rises and falls in profusion,
presenting one of the greatest mysteries of the Isle: two different springs, the Red
Spring touched red from iron and the White Spring, which is actually
several springs that arise from the Tor. They're mixed in a mixing chamber that is behind
the cottage located above the spring. One of these springs contains chalybeate water,
similar to Chalice Well water, which gives rise to some thoughts that the water from the
Chalice Well may actually have its source within the Tor. Once the water leaves the White
Spring building it flows underground in a completely separate plumbing system to the
Chalice Well.
The building was initially constructed as a reservoir by the local water
supply company. It was used as a reservoir for a number of years,
supplying most of the town's water, until the pipes blocked up owing to high calcite
deposits that built up within them. In the 1980s and 90s it was used as cafe and a
shop, and was sold in 2003 to a benefactor who had no wish to commercialise it.
He formed a local commitee to manage it on a non profit basis. For a
while it was an empty space with the water flowing through a conduit in the floor. Then in
2009 the new pools were designed based on sacred
geometry and the dimensions of the building. Behind the building is a tunnel
(now sealed off) that leads into the Tor; how far is not known, but it's given rise to
various legends about it possibly being an entrance to the underworld.
So the Well House could be referred to as a subterranean cavern within the
Tor, lit only by one small skylight and the flickering of candles. Entering in represents a
powerful symbolic jouney from and through the darkness into the light, with the
healing waters of the White Spring flowing through it. The Celtic Goddess Brigid,
the Lady of Avalon, is the guardian whose ancient presence pervades this sacred space.
Inside there are three domed vaults, and beautiful bowed floors - like the hull of a
boat moored at the portal to the Otherworld. The constant temperature and the sound of the
perpetually flowing water make this a unique sacred space. We'll have the opportunity to
step into the pools, as well as time for a Sacred
Ritual led by Michael and Lynne Orchard. And time for individual
meditation.
.
Return walking to town. Free time and lunch on your own.
OPTION:
For those who would like to experience the ancient energies at WearyAll
Hill and Bride's Mound, this will be a later afternoon
visit with Michael. WearyAll Hill (seen in the photo taken from
Glastonbury Tor) is where Joseph of Arimatheia on his arrival
from the Holy Land supposedly planted his staff, which flowered into a hawthorn tree.
Genetic testing of the surviving tree has shown it to be a species found in the Middle
East. Legend has it that Joseph landed here, rested on his staff, and it sprouted
branches and leaves. This old shamanistic tradition indicates that 'this is the place'.
The chances are that Glastonbury was well known at the time, and that he had either been
invited here or knew it could be a refuge, amongst people who would understand the early
Christians' plight. Tradition has it that he was a rich metals trader who traded with
Britain for tin from Cornwall and lead from the Mendip Hills just north of Glastonbury.
Bride's Mound is a tiny little mound just near the foot of Wearyall Hill. Tiny it
may be, but its history is great, for legend has it that it was a gateway to
Avalon where pilgrims, arriving by boat from Ireland and Wales, would stay in
vigil through the night, before passing on up the processional way to Avalon. Arthur is
said to have had a vision of the great Goddess here, and Mary with her son, and St. Brigid
of Ireland are said to have stayed here. Hence the link with Bride (Brighde,
Brigid).
Early dinner
on your own, or plan to have snacks at the B and B after our ceremony at the Goddess
Temple.
This evening we walk to High Street to the Glastonbury
Goddess Temple for a Goddess
Ritual and Meditation with Lynne
Orchard, Priestess of Avalon. She will offer our group a special initiation into
the age-old Goddess Mysteries that are connected to this area of ancient Avalon. What
special Gift of Spirit will The Lady bestow upon you? What wisdom will She gently whisper
to your Heart? Come in openness and humility...and receive!
Return walking to our B and B. Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 5. Wednesday, July 22.
Silbury Hill, West Kennett Longbarrow, Avebury, Crop Circles (B)
After breakfast we're
off to begin to explore and experience the local sacred sites and ancient mysteries! We
begin our exploration of the area at the huge and mysterious Silbury Hill,
a grass-covered man-made chalk mound that is the biggest prehistoric artificial mound in
Europe. Evidence from radiocarbon dating indicates that Silbury was constructed about
4,400 years ago in the Neolithic period. Its construction is estimated to have involved
roughly 4 million hours of work using 500,000 tons of material, mostly chalk that was
quarried and cleared from the surrounding terraces and ditches. Some people see the Hill
as a symbolic effigy of the ancient Mother Goddess that was associated with fertility
rituals which marked the course of the year. The festival of Lammas in August, when it is
thought Silbury was founded, celebrates the first fruits of the harvest.
Next we walk across the
highway to West Kennett Longbarrow, a Neolithic
tomb or barrow,. It's one of the most impressive and well-preserved burial chambers in
Britain. Archaeologists classify it as a chambered long barrow; It has two pairs of
opposing transept chambers and a single terminal chamber used for burial. The entrance
consists of a concave forecourt with a facade made from large slabs of sarsen stones which
were placed to seal entry. The construction of the West Kennet Long Barrow began about
3600 BCE, which is some 400 years before the archaeologically-determined first stage of
Stonehenge, and it was in use until around 2500 BCE. This was at the same time as the
great stone circle at Avebury was begun, and may signify a change in the focus of belief
and religion. Andrea and Michael
will lead a short meditation to connect with the Ancestors.
The mound has been
damaged by indiscriminate digging, but archaeological excavations in 1859 and 1955-56
found at least 46 burials, ranging from babies to elderly persons. The bones were
disarticulated with some of the skulls and long bones missing. It has been suggested that
the bones were removed periodically for display or transported elsewhere with the blocking
facade being removed and replaced each time. It's thought that this tomb was in use for as
long as 1,000 years and at the end of this period the passage and chamber were filled to
the roof by the Beaker people with earth and stones, among which were found pieces of
Grooved ware, Peterborough ware and Beaker pottery, charcoal, bone tools, and beads.
Stuart Piggott, who excavated this mixture of secondary material, suggested that it had
been collected from a nearby 'mortuary enclosure' showing that the site had been used for
ritual activity long after it was used for burial.
Folklore & Legend: The mound is traditionally visited by a white
spectral figure accompanied by a white red-eared hound at sunrise on
Midsummer's day. There is a slim possibility that this tradition is a folk memory of a
ritual event or at least a time thought to have been significant in the use of the barrow.
There is no doubt that some traditions can become convoluted into folklore, and be passed
down over the centuries, whether this is the case with West Kennet Long Barrow has never
been explored. However, some people do notice a strange atmosphere in the darkened
chamber. And photographs taken inside the long barrow have revealed interesting
phenomena
like the mist seen in the photograph here. Well have time for a
meditation to connect with the Ancestors, here in their ancient final resting place.
We then continue to Avebury World Heritage site. After a
stop for lunch on your own at the site's cafeteria, we begin our visit. Avebury is one of
the world's largest and most complex monuments of the Megalithic Age, an ancient Druidic
initiation site of immense standing stones. Two avenues of about 100 megaliths run out
from Avebury. Today its mysteries are still being explored and solved by
multi-disciplinary scholars in archaeology, science and ancient religion. As there are
lunar and solar ley-lines that cross in this area, we will connect with these powerful
energies through ritual facilitated by
Andrea and Michael to balance our own masculine and feminine
energies.
Then we're off to explore Crop
Circles. These geometric symbols of unknown origin form in fields of grain, and
have appeared in this area over the past 20 years. The county of Wiltshire is one of the
most active areas for crop circles in the world, particularly around the historical stones
of Avebury and Silbury Hill. In this ancient landscape, the grassy whorls take over the
fields of rape, barley and wheat like massive installation art. If we are fortunate we may
be able to enter one or more of the formations and have private meditation time to connect
with and experience the other-dimensional energies that many researchers believe form
them. What is the general communication that is being given to us by these circles? What
is the particular communication from each circle? Where do they come from? Who/what forms
them? Why here? Why now? AND, why have we been lead here to experience them? What does all
this mean for our personal and planetary transformation?
Return to Glastonbury. Dinner on your own. Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 6. Thursday, July 23.
Wells; Free Time; Group Dinner (B/D)
This morning we drive to the city of Wells,
England's second smallest city. The name Wells derives from the three wells
dedicated to Saint Andrew, one in the market place and two within the grounds of the
Bishop's Palace and cathedral. There was a small Roman settlement around the wells, but
its importance grew under the Saxons when King Ine of Wessex founded a minster church in
704CE, around which the settlement grew. Wells became a trading center and involved in
cloth making before its involvement in both the English Civil War and the Monmouth
Rebellion during the 17th century.
Our first stop is at the Cathedral
of the Diocese of Bath and Wells, which is situated next to natural wells where
springs of water rise up from beneath the Mendip Hills. This site has been a holy place
for nearly 2000 years. The foundations of the building you see today were laid in 1185CE.
The Cathedral stands adjacent to the medieval Bishops Palace and Vicars
Close, the oldest continuously inhabited street in Europe. A major project
completed in 2009 provided new facilities for choirs and education, a dedicated
interpretation area, a new entrance with shop and restaurant, and has enabled the medieval
cloister to be reopened to the public. Enjoy the wonderful display of medieval statues on
the West Front, and inside the graceful scissor arches, the humorous carvings on the
pillars, and the deep colors of the stained glass. In this place hallowed by the prayer of
centuries pause for a moment and give thanks for the gift of life.
After a light lunch on your own with the group, we
return to Glastonbury. You have free time. See Day 2 for options for exploration on your
own.
Tonight we have a group dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight Glastonbury.
Day 7. Friday, July 24. Salisbury;
Stonehenge Free Time and Private Entrance (B)
We
depart early morning to Salisbury. Upon arrival Michael will lead
the group on a short Walking tour, focusing
on Salisburys fascinating history and highlights in the historic city center. One of
the highlights will be the world famous Doom painting in the parish
church of St Thomas. Afterwards enjoy lunch on your own with the group at a wonderful
medieval café located right in the heart of the city. .
Then we'll enjoy a guided tour of Salisbury Cathedral, with its magnificent Gothic architecture, the tallest early medieval spire in the world and the home of one of four original
surviving copies of Magna Carta, the first document imposed upon a
King of England by a group of his subjects, the feudal barons, in an attempt to limit his
powers by law and protect their rights. For over 750 years pilgrims have come to
Salisbury to seek inspiration in the glory and peace of the building and surrounding
Cathedral Close. Like those who have come before us for hundreds of years, we'll be awed
by the beauty and scale of the cathedral interior. We'll see a Black Madonna,
holding Her place of the Divine Feminine. You'll also have the opportunity to view the
original Magna Carta, located in the Chapter House.
We
then depart to the visitors center at Stonehenge. You have free time to visit the circle on your own, as well as the new
on-site museum and the gift shop. Enjoy a light snack supper on your own at the on-site
café.
As the sunset
approaches we board the tram for the short ride from the Visitor Center to Stonehenge
for our private entrance inside the circle. There is much debate as to
the age of Stonehenge, as well as who built it. History says that the site was begun
in the agricultural Neolithic Age and was completed in the Early Bronze Age by early
Britons known as the Beaker Folk, so called because of beakers, drinking vessels, found in
their grave goods. Around 1500 BCE some disaster or systems collapse progressively brought
the impressive Megalithic Age to an end, not only here, but throughout the whole of
Britain and Ireland. Although we can never know exactly who the architects were who
planned Stonehenge, the face sculptured into the side of trilithon stone 54 does give us
cause to wonder if he or she was so influential that his/her facial features were placed
here to be preserved forever as a representation of the Divine Marriage, the concept of
Sacred Marriage between an Earth Mother and Sky Father, that was universal in early or
primitive agricultural and
Goddess-oriented societies. Those who are sensitive to this massive temple claim that the
megalithic blocks are constantly radiating tremendous amounts of energy. Some say it is
because the ancient Druids turned themselves into the stones, while others assert that
they hold the power of innumerable Druid ceremonies held there in the past.
During our private time in the most ancient of sacred sites Michael, Lynne and Andrea will facilitate a special ritual and meditation among the magical stones and
their powerful energies. What ancient secrets will be revealed to you? What will be your
Gift of Spirit that you will receive? Open your heart, mind, and soul
and
receive!
Later evening
return to Glastonbury. Overnight
Glastonbury.
Day 8. Saturday,
July 25. Group Transfer to London Heathrow Airport (B)
After an early breakfast we depart on our group
transfer to return to Heathrow International Airport. (IMPORTANT: Please
book your flight to depart AFTER 1:00PM. Thank you.)
NOTE: This itinerary is
subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
OR, Continue on to CORNWALL
July 25 28, 2015
(Open to a group of 6 ONLY)
NOTE: This itinerary involves some long walks over rough terrain and at times
climbing a considerable number of stone steps.
Therefore its only suitable for those who are physically fit and able.
Day 8. Saturday, July 25.
To Cornwall Tintagel Area: Arthurs Hall of Chivalry; Free Time (B/D)
After
an early breakfast, we depart Glastonbury for Cornwall,
the fabled and enchanted land of King Arthur's birth. Our route is via
Dartmoor, where we stop for a brief visit to the famous Lydford Gorge
with its White Lady waterfall and the Devils Cauldron. We
arrive early afternoon in the small village of Tintagel. Lunch on your own at one of the
local restaurants. Perhaps the famous Pengenna's Cornish Pasties?
After lunch we visit Arthurs Hall of
Chivalry, an atmospheric and historic building built in the 1930s by Frederick Thomas Glasscock as the home of the Order of the Fellowship of
the Knights of the Round Table of King Arthur. Everything in these halls is based upon the Arthurian Romances; all of the art and
symbols are directly associated with King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. We
enter The Halls through the gift shop and continue through to the Small Hall to view a
brief audio visual presentation of the story of Arthur. We leave and pass along a corridor
into the Hall of Chivalry. Here we see 125 shields of granite, set along its full length,
representing the passage from darkness into light. Granite is also used in the huge canopy
over the throne, weighing six tons and supported by nine massive granite pillars. There is
also a granite Round Table, along with two wooden ones. The Halls contain
seventy three beautiful stained glass windows designed and crafted by
Veronica Whall during 1930 33. The galleries of The Hall of Chivalry contain The
Windows of the Knights. Each Knight of the Round Table is illustrated by
his unique shield depicted in the windows. By each window, the Knights story is told
in words. The Hall of Chivalry holds eighteen windows portraying the principal
virtues which the Knights of the Round Table agreed to observe. In the Hall of
Chivalry, these virtues are graded in quality, starting with the less spiritual ones such
as Strength, Perseverance and Obedience, through to those considered more spiritual such
as Purity, Faith and Love.
Then you have free time for exploration on your own and/or shopping in some of the quaint
and interesting local shops.
In
the later afternoon we check into our hotel, home for three nights, the Camelot
Castle Hotel. Sitting proudly in Tintagel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and
Tintagel Castle, the stunning hotel offers rooms with magnificent panoramic views over the
rugged Cornish coastline from Hartland Point in the North, to Trevose Head in the South.
Our traditional castle rooms in a classical Victorian style with en-suite shower
facilities overlooking the Atlantic. The Hotel, which is fully licensed, offers excellent
cuisine. Enjoy superb freshly-cooked food made using local produce in the restaurant while
also enjoying the equally superb panoramic views. Weather permitting, you can also eat
& drink al-fresco on the terrace. There is a grand piano for any musician who would
like to entertain. In the Arthurian-style bar you can relax for a quiet drink and look out
over the Atlantic ocean. Or enjoy music for your comfort and entertainment in the dance
hall. You can sit and talk with friends at King Arthur's Round Table. You can also write a
letter to Merlin and drop it in the box on the table.
At our group dinner tonight we take time to share our experiences of the day.
Overnight Tintagel. Camelot Castle Hotel.
Day 9. Sunday, July 26. Tintagel: Tintagel Castle;
Merlins Cave; Free Time (B/D)
After a hearty buffet breakfast were off to explore Tintagel
Castle, on a rocky windswept headland above the sea, surrounded on three sides by
the Atlantic Ocean. The name Tintagel derives from Din Taggel, meaning
"fortress of the narrow entrance". Historically it would appear that Tintagel
was an important trading post from late Roman times until it was abandoned at the end of
the 7th century. Around 1230, a castle was built at Tintagel by Richard, Earl of Cornwall
and son of King Henry III. When Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote about it in the History of the
Kings of Britain in 1136, the 1230 Tintagel Castle would not have been there and legend
would have been his main source of what had happened on the island stronghold.
Legend has held that this is the place where Uther Pendragon mated with Arthur's mother,
Igraine, and conceived the future king. Arthur is reputed to have been
born here. Excavations in the 1930's uncovered 5th to 6th century Dark Age settlement and
monastic remains. Whether King Arthur was born there or not is impossible to tell, but
archaeological evidence does make Tintagel a plausible site for such a kingdom at the
supposed time of King Arthur. The unique artifacts at Tintagel emphasize its dominance as
a royal citadel and Mediterranean contact during the 5th and 6th centuries. An
archeological find was made there in July 1998 when a team from Glasgow University
uncovered a sixth-century slab with this inscription: PATER COLI AVI FECIT ARTOGNOV. This
has been translated to mean "Artognou, father of a descendant of Coll, has had this
[building] made". The name "Artognou" was probably pronounced
"Arthnou." Art and Arth were fairly common prefixes to the names of Dark Age
rulers. Some researchers believe that the stone is probably just another piece of evidence
that Tintagel was a wealthy Dark Age stronghold. It confirms that there was a relatively
well-educated and wealthy person there in the sixth century with a name that may have
sounded like Arthur. It does not prove that King Arthur himself lived at Tintagel. But the
mystery lives on! As we walk through these ancient ruins, keep your Third Eye open to see
between the veils to those days long past. Perhaps you'll glimpse Arthur and receive a
message from him. Well find a quiet and peaceful area of the site for our group meditation
facilitated by Michael.
Tide and time allowing, we then descend to the beach to Merlin's Cave,
located under the rocks close to Tintagel Castle. If not, we'll view it from above. Legend
maintains that the spirit of the great Druid Merlin still inhabits this lonely place.
Its very atmospheric; you might imagine Merlin approaching, with his staff held up
to light up the darkness of the cave. If we're able to enter, we'll take time to meditate
and connect with the energies that reach out to us from the misty past.
Return to the hotel. Lunch on your own. You have free time this afternoon to rest and
integrate the powerful energies you encountered this morning.
For those who are interested, Michael will offer an optional tour this
afternoon to a lovely local sandy beach, Trebarwith Strand. If the
weather is kind and the tide is out, you'll be able to enjoy the beach! And if the tide is
in, there are great rocks to sit on and be really close to the ocean. (Price to be
announced.)
Group dinner tonight at the hotel - another time for sharing.
Overnight Tintagel. Camelot Castle
Hotel.
Day 10. Monday, July 27. Tintagel: St Nectans Glen;
Boscastle Witchcraft Museum; Minster Church (B/D)
This morning were off to visit St Nectans Glen, an
area of woodland in Trethevy near Tintagel, which is held sacred by many people who visit
it. Stretching for around one mile along both banks of the Trevillet River, the glen's
most prominent feature is St Nectan's Kieve, a spectacular 60 ft. waterfall. The walk
through woodland takes us alongside a stream with many places to stop and take in the
calming beauty of the water. At the amazing and powerful waterfall, we may be blessed to
experience its legendary healing qualities.
Who Was St Nectan? Around 500CE St Nectan built his small sanctuary
beside the Trevillitt River, just above the waterfall and the kieve (Cornish for 'basin').
Tradition has it that behind the chapel was a tower where he hug a silver bell that he
rang to warn sailors of submerged rocks on the treacherous Cornish coast, or to summon
help from the Celtic monastery near Tintagel castle for vessels in distress. From his
vantage point he would have been able to see both coast and castle from the top of his
tower. Or, perhaps he rang it just to assure sailors that he was praying for their safety.
As the end of his life approached, the area was split apart by bitter differences between
the older Celtic and the newer Roman faiths. St. Nectan prophesied the return of the
older, simpler faith, vowing that his bell should never ring for unbelievers; he carried
it to the bank above the kieve and dropped it into the basin. It's said that his bell
still tolls today. When he died, two strange ladies who are believed to have been his
sisters came and, acting upon his wishes, they placed his body, the sacramental vessels
and other treasures into an oak chest. They diverted the waters of the fall, dug a grave
in the river bed below the Kieve and buried the chest. The river turned back to its
natural course and now flows over the saint's grave. Well take time here for
exploration of this place of incredible natural beauty and peace, as well as individual
meditation.and reflection.
Afterwards enjoy
lunch on your own with the group in one of the harbor-side cafes in the little village and
fishing port of Boscastle, a few miles northeast of Tintagel. The village
with its picturesque harbor is a very popular tourist destination. Much of the land in and
around Boscastle is owned by the National Trust, including both sides of the harbor. The
Forrabury Stitches, high above the village are ancient "stitchmeal" cultivation
plots. Large areas of the Valency Valley are known for its connections to the novelist and
poet Thomas Hardy. The National Trust runs a shop at the harbor, and a visitor center in
the Old Smithy. Well visit the Museum of Witchcraft, which houses
the world's largest collection of witchcraft related artifacts and regalia dating from
prehistory to today. This very unique privately-owned museum has been in existence since
1951 when it first opened on The Isle of Man. It's been in Boscastle since 1961 and is
amongst Cornwall's most popular museums. It also houses a large library with around 5,000
books which is used by researchers from the UK and around the world.
After the Witchcraft Museum we move on to the nearby Minster Church. The
atmospheric Minster church stands on a superb viewpoint above a wooded river valley near
Boscastle. Surrounded by tombstones overgrown with bracken and wildflowers, its graveyard
precinct is set in National Trust-owned woodlands, and encompasses the site of a
pagan/early Christian healing well. A few years ago it also hosted the
re-interment of the bones of a woman unjustly condemned as a witch in the 18th century.
There are no other houses or settlements nearby, and the way that the Victorian graveyard
merges into the ancient woodland, combined with the superb coastal scenery and the air of
mystery (why is there a solitary church here in the middle of nowhere?) make this obscure
place one of the spookiest locations in England. The church is dedicated to St
Materiana, a very early Celtic Christian saint who set up a hermitage around the
holy spring below the present church in the time of King Arthur, over 1500 years ago.
In the later afternoon we return to Tintagel and our hotel. This evening well enjoy
our last group dinner at the hotel.
Overnight Tintagel. Camelot Castle
Hotel.
Day 11. Tuesday, July 28. Group Transfer to London Heathrow
Airport (B)
After an early breakfast we depart on our group transfer to return to Heathrow
International Airport. IMPORTANT: Please book your flight to depart AFTER 7:00PM. Thank
you. Service ends on arrival at Heathrow
Note:
This itinerary is subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.
From the Archives
ENGLAND:
The Sacred Mysteries of Stonehenge and Avalon
Guest:
Nicholas Mann, author of Energy Secrets of Glastonbury Tor and The Isle of
Avalon
To listen to an Mp3 recording of this program, Click here
A
Few Words from Sacred Sites Journeys Pilgrims to ENGLAND
Glastonbury/Avalon is a beautiful and magical place a sacred site in
and of itself, and near to so many other sacred sites in England. I would recommend this
tour to anyone who is called to it. There is so much to explore and experience, from the
ruins in Tintagel to the crop circles! The private entrances to the Chalice Well and
Stonehenge were highlights of this tour for me. These are things that most people do not
get to experience, and this is what makes Sacred Sites Journeys special. Koko Newport is a
delightful and fascinating woman, and I thoroughly enjoyed and benefitted from time spent
with her. It was also incredible to have Nicholas Mann as a speaker. His knowledge of the
history and legends of Glastonbury/Avalon held us all in thrall during his lecture. I was
privileged to have a reading with him. I hope to return to Glastonbury in the not too
distant future, either as part of a tour or on my own, and I certainly will be interested
in Sacred Sites Journeys to Ireland and Scotland, too! From there, who knows? The world
has opened up to me! - Jeanne D., IL
The tour was fantastic! - Mark C., Australia
Traveling to Glastonbury is an experience you will never forget. This sacred land will
transform you and your life. You will quickly understand why so many people have made
pilgrimage to this sacred land over the ages. These sacred sites are powerful and
breathtaking. From Stonehenge to the Chalice Well each place is uniquely inspirational and
transformational. And of course you are truly
blessed to have Andrea serve as your guide. Helping others travel on these spiritual
journeys is truly her love and it is reflected in all of her actions. It is her goal to
help you have the most meaningful experience possible. Scared Site Journeys have helped me
discover myself and created dreams I never thought possible. Thank you Andrea!
- Michelle Z, MN
I absolutely loved the tour, had many powerful meditations, visions and I
would most definitely do another of your tours. - Kathy S, CT
The meditation at Stanton Drew was very peaceful and profound, and
I thought one of the more spiritual moments of the tour. I cant say enough good
things about Clare & Brian and their establishment! Wonderful! - Anonymous by request
Koko was excellent. She was a very good manager of people and was
also very knowledgeable and very willing to share what she knew with us. Clare and Brian
were excellent and gracious innkeepers. The B&B was immaculate, and in a very
convenient location so we could walk to the High Street easily. They also had a friendly
cat and a lovely garden to sit in. I loved Cornwall! The Chalice Well had beautiful
gardens, and was a nice meditation spot. Avebury was wonderful because I had never been
there before. And Koko told us about some of the stones and their mystical meanings. I
didn't mind the early morning visit to Stonehenge, in fact I thought the morning mist
added to the experience. I was very grateful for the chance to get inside the ropes and
actually see the stones up close. - Cheryl C, NH
The spiritual
pilgrimage to Glastonbury was excellent! My most meaningful experiences were at
Stonehenge, the Chalice Well, and inside the crop circle. Andrea did an excellent job as
our Tour Director, and facilitator of the meditations. AND, the food at the welcome dinner
was really good!
Vicki K, OH
Glastonbury
is an amazing place that touches everyone. The B&B was PERFECT. The hosts were very
friendly and yet accommodating and professional. Weren't we lucky with the weather? Koko
Newport was also wonderful. She was relaxed, well informed, and made us feel like family
at her business site with meals and hospitality. She was also excellent in letting nature
take its course----friendly, while dropping little nuggets of wisdom when asked. - Beth
G, WI
The sacred journey was a
great introduction to Glastonbury and its many gifts. It had the right amount of scheduled
time with ample free time. I found Andrea to be very conscientious of the individuals and
the group, without trying to micromanage or force and experiences.
The provided information left room for my own conclusions and perceptions to integrate in
the way it was meant to. This was the perfect combination of introduction and detail to
help one start the integration process into the Magick and mysteries of our foundations.
The experience was a
beautiful and fulfilling experience that opened my eyes to new things. Humorous, fun and
intellectual - my mind was fed and I was left wanting more information, more
experience and more time. I thoroughly enjoyed the Nicholas Mann's visit and discussion;
his kind, compassionate and integrity of manner inspired me to think, to feel and
most importantly - to remember. - Jennie K, ME
This
Goddess-oriented journey was all I could have dreamed of and more. It was a healing
pilgrimage for myself and my soul. The visit to the Chalice Well and the ritual with Koko
were very meaningful and moving for me. Stonehenge and the Tor were exceptional! I loved
Andrea's perceptions, and also her channeling session. Made a lot of sense! I felt
she was very plugged into all of us and our issues. She was a ray of sunshine! - Raven
M, ME
INCLUSIONS
Your Sacred Sites
Journey to ENGLAND Includes:
-
Roundtrip group transfers between Heathrow International Airport and Bed and Breakfast in
Glastonbury (Note: If you do not fly into Heathrow and/or do not meet the group for
the transfers, then you are responsible to make your own arrangements for this
transportation to and from your B and B. There is no refund for not taking the group
transfers.)
- Transportation in air-conditioned motorcoach
- 7 Night's accommodations in First Class Bed & Breakfast
- Daily breakfast (special diets accommodated), 2 dinners
- Welcome and Farewell Dinners (special diets accommodated)
- Sightseeing tours as per itinerary, including entrance fees
- Escorted on arrival at London Heathrow Airport by Sacred Sites Journeys Director Andrea
Mikana-Pinkham
- Pre-Paid Gratuities for driver/guide, waiters at group meals, etc.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
-
Travel in a smaller group of other spirit-centered people with Sacred Sites Journeys
Director Andrea Mikana-Pinkham
- Spiritual Tour Guide and Ceremonialist: Michael Orchard
- Ceremonialist: Lynne Orchard, Priestess of Avalon
- Ceremonies & meditations at sacred sites facilitated by Michael Orchard, Lynne
Orchard and Andrea Mikana-Pinkham
- Private group entrance at Stonehenge for sacred ceremony and meditation
- Private group entrance at the Chalice Well
- Private group entrance into the Well House at the White Spring, next to the Chalice Well
- Private group entrance at the Glastonbury Goddess Temple
- Private group entrance at the Cross Bath in Bath
- Welcome and Farewell Dinners
- Avebury, Silbury Hill and West Kennett Longbarrow
- Possible entrance(s) into Crop Circles
- Glastonbury Tor
- Plenty of free time in Glastonbury
- Bath: Walking Tour and Roman Baths
NOT
INCLUDED:
-
Roundtrip international flight to England (Arrive/Depart London Heathrow Airport)
-
Meals not included, as indicated in the itinerary
- Cost to obtain valid passport
- Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, internet access and telephone
calls. Any item that is not specifically detailed on the Sacred Sites Journeys website or
final trip itinerary
Cornwall Extension Inclusions:
- Transportation in air-conditioned motorcoach
- 3 Night's accommodations at Camelot Castle Hotel in a seaview room with private bath
- Daily buffet breakfast, 3 dinners
- Sightseeing tours as per itinerary, including entrance fees
- Escorted by Tour Guide Michael Orchard
- Pre-Paid Gratuities for driver/guide, waiters at group meals, etc.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
-
Travel in a smaller group of other spirit-centered people
- Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur
- Arthurs Hall of Chivalry
- Merlins Cave (Dependent on the tides)
- St. Nectans Glen
- Boscastle: Witchcraft Museum
- Minster Church
- Plenty of free time in Tintagel
NOT INCLUDED:
-
Meals not included, as indicated in the itinerary
- Cost to obtain valid passport
- Any items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, internet access and telephone
calls. Any item that is not specifically detailed on the Sacred Sites Journeys website or
final trip itinerary
PRICING
This
tour is LAND ONLY. You are responsible to book your international flights to and from
London, England.
ARRIVAL: Please arrive in London at Heathrow International Airport on Saturday,
July 18, 2015 by 8:00AM in order to connect with our 11:00AM group transfer
from the airport to Glastonbury.
DEPARTURE - Main Tour: For your departure at London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday,
July 25th, please book your international flight to depart at 1:00PM or later.
DEPARTURE
- Cornwall Extension: For your
departure at London's Heathrow Airport on Tuesday, July 28th, please
book your international flight to depart at 7:00PM or later.
DISCOUNT!
Make ALL of your payments by check or money order and receive a 5% discount! This discount
is INCLUDED in the price below listed for this payment option.
NOTE
Regarding Credit Card Payments: We are able to take credit cards for payment until
45 days before the tour begins. After that you can pay with a credit card check,
bank cashier's check, or money order. Or wire funds to our bank account (additional $25.00
fee applies for wires originating from outside the U.S.).
MAIN TOUR: Per Person, double occupancy, land only: (Based on a
group of 14)
$1,799.00 - for payments via check or money order
$1,894.00 - for payments via credit card
ROOMMATES: Would you like to meet and make a new friend on your journey? If
you're not traveling on the journey with anyone you know, and would like for SSJ to try to
match you up with a suitable roommate, we'll be happy to try to do so. Over the last 21
years we've been operating these spiritual pilgrimages we've seen many people become
friends for life. (As well, we've had several marriages result from people meeting on our
journeys.) Be open! Be flexible! It will be a rich and wonderful experience!
Single
Room Supplement
$225.00 - for payments via check or money order
$237.00 - for payments via credit card
Per
our Terms and Conditions, we will hold the registration for the trip open until 30 days
before the departure date (or later if possible) in order to try to match you with a
roommate. If by that date we have not been able to do so, you will be responsible to pay
the single room supplement fee. You will have a better chance of being matched
with a roommate if you register early.
CORNWALL EXTENSION: Per Person, double occupancy, land only: (Based on a
group of 8)
$999.00 - for payments via check or money order
$1,052.00 - for payments via credit card
ROOMMATES:
Would you like to meet and make a new friend on your journey? If you're not
traveling on the journey with anyone you know, and would like for SSJ to try to match you
up with a suitable roommate, we'll be happy to try to do so. Over the last 21 years we've
been operating these spiritual pilgrimages we've seen many people become friends for life.
(As well, we've had several marriages result from people meeting on our journeys.) Be
open! Be flexible! It will be a rich and wonderful experience!
Single
Room Supplement
$69.00 - for payments via check or money order
$73.00 - for payments via credit card
REGISTRATION
TOUR REGISTRATION CLOSED
Fourteen sacred travelers from the USA, Canada,
Australia, Germany & Portugal
will meet at London's Heathrow Airport for the beginning of our journey on Saturday, July
18, 2015.
If you'd like to follow our daily tour activities, please bookmark this page and check
back July 18th - 28th.
If you wanted to join us this year, but were
unable to do so, start making your plans now
for our 2016 spiritual journey, which will be held August 6 - 13, 2016.
Full details to be posted soon on our website at www.SacredSitesJourneys.com
To access the Registration Form for this Sacred Sites Journey to ENGLAND, Click Here
Questions? Email info@SacredSitesJourneys.com
Or, call our office at 888 501-3853 (Toll free in the US) or 928 284-2384
If you'd like to receive our Monthly Sacred Sites
Journeys E-Newsletters, please Sign Up Here!
Newsletters are sent out about once a month.
Occasionally you may also receive an e-news bulletin about a specific journey or event.
We will not sell or share your
information with any other company or individuals.
You can easily un-subscribe at any time.
NOTE: All photos and text on this webpage are the
Copyright of Sacred Sites Journeys/ Heartlight Fellowship.
Sacred Sites Journeys is NOT
affiliated with any other sacred travel company.
Other sacred travel companies offering
spiritual pilgrimages similar to ours
are using our text and photos. We did not give them permission to do so.
We believe that karma is very efficient, and that those who are not in integrity
will swiftly reap the negative benefits of such actions.
Back to
top |