Once part of a grand avenue of oak trees leading toward Glastonbury Tor and, according to some legends, stretching as far as the site of Cadbury Castle near South Cadbury, Gog and Magog are among the last surviving witnesses of a sacred landscape that may have originated in the Druidic era.
A Sacred Oak Avenue from the Age of the Druids According to local tradition, the avenue of oaks was planted by ancient Druids in the pre-Christian period. These trees may have marked a ceremonial route leading toward Glastonbury Tor, a hill steeped in myth and spiritual significance.
For centuries, the oak avenue formed a striking natural pathway through the Somerset landscape. However, much of it was lost in the early 20th century when a farmer cleared large sections of the trees, reportedly unaware—or unconcerned—about their historical and sacred associations.
Although the exact age of the remaining oaks is debated, many researchers believe that Gog and Magog could descend from an even older lineage of sacred trees. Druids were known to maintain sacred groves by planting new saplings grown from the acorns of aging trees, preserving the spiritual lineage of the grove across generations. If this tradition was followed here, the heritage of Gog and Magog may stretch back into deep antiquity.
Today, Gog and Magog have become a popular destination for New Age travellers, pilgrims, and nature lovers visiting Glastonbury. The trees are known for their peaceful, grounding atmosphere and strong spiritual presence.
Visitors often leave offerings at the site, including jewellery, crystals and precious stones, coins and money and personal tokens. Many people report unusual experiences here, including seeing faces or figures within the twisted, gnarled bark, adding to the mystical reputation of these ancient oaks. The names Gog and Magog come from British mythology, where they are described as two of the last surviving giants defeated by Brutus of Troy, the legendary founder of Britain.
According to the story, the giants were captured and taken to London, where they were chained outside a palace on the site of today’s Guildhall. Their legacy lives on in the form of large wooden statues housed inside London’s Guildhall, where they still stand during ceremonial events such as the Lord Mayor’s Banquet. The Gog and Magog oak trees are not widely signposted, making them a hidden gem for those exploring Glastonbury. However, with a little planning, they are relatively easy to locate. Access route include a footpath running through a nearby campsite and a scenic National Trust walking route passing two houses named Gog and Magog Visitors should note that parking can be limited along the narrow country lanes surrounding the site.
The Gog and Magog oak trees are not widely signposted, making them a hidden gem for those exploring Glastonbury. However, with a little planning, they are relatively easy to locate. Access route include a footpath running through a nearby campsite and a scenic National Trust walking route passing two houses named Gog and Magog Visitors should note that parking can be limited along the narrow country lanes surrounding the site. Sadly, one of the two ancient trees, Gog, has now died. However, its remains still lie at the site and continue to attract offerings from visitors paying tribute to its long history.
Efforts are being made to preserve this sacred location. The Glastonbury Conservation Society has planted new oak trees to honour the original Druid avenue. There is hope that future generations may continue the ancient tradition of growing new trees from the lineage of the old—keeping the spirit of Gog and Magog alive. If you’re exploring Glastonbury’s spiritual sites, the Gog and Magog oak trees offer a unique blend of history, mythology, and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn by ancient Druid traditions, British folklore, or simply the peaceful atmosphere, this hidden location is one of the most intriguing places to visit near Glastonbury Tor.
You can view the site's Gog and Magog gallery of photographs here: Gog and Magog Gallery
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