As the first breath of spring graces the land, we stand at the crossroads of light and dark, balance and harmony. For centuries, this sacred point in the Earth's orbit has been celebrated as a time of transformation, both spiritual and physical. In the tranquil hills of our home in Somerset, this celestial event invites us to reconnect with nature’s rhythms and experience the beauty of this seasonal threshold.The Pagan Origins: A Sacred Rite of RebirthThe Spring Equinox, which falls on March 20th or 21st, has deep roots in ancient Pagan traditions. For the Celts and early Europeans, the equinox was a symbolic moment — a celebration of the balance between day and night, light and dark. It marked the return of longer days and the resurgence of vitality after the long, often harsh winter months. In these early cultures, the equinox was not only a time of agricultural renewal but also a spiritual one, where the earth itself was reborn.This day, in the Pagan calendar, is often associated with Ostara, a goddess of fertility, spring, and renewal. Rituals of lighting candles, sowing seeds, and offering prayers to the earth were performed in her honour, reinforcing humanity's deep connection to the land. The fertility of the soil mirrored the potential for new beginnings in one's personal life. It was a day to embrace change, let go of the old, and welcome the new — much as the earth was awakening from its winter slumber. Experiencing the Equinox in Somerset and BrutonSomerset, with its lush landscapes, ancient woodlands, and historic stone ruins, is an ideal location to celebrate the Spring Equinox. In the heart of this county lies Bruton, a town steeped in history, charm, and a quiet reverence for nature’s cycles. Here, amidst the rolling hills and verdant valleys, one can feel the ancient rhythms that have been celebrated for centuries. Glastonbury Tor: A Sacred Site of RenewalJust a short drive from Bruton, Glastonbury Tor has long been a place of pilgrimage and mystery. Known for its spiritual significance and connection to legends of King Arthur, the Tor is also a key site in Pagan traditions. On the Equinox, as the sun rises and sets perfectly aligned with the hill's peak, the site becomes a powerful symbol of rebirth and balance. Ascend the Tor on the morning of the equinox, and let the panoramic views of the Somerset Levels and the Mendip Hills offer a moment of quiet reflection as you breathe in the early spring air.The White Spring: A Flow of Healing WatersIn Glastonbury, the White Spring has been revered for its purifying and healing properties for centuries. Its waters, believed to have mystical qualities, are a fitting place to honor the equinox. As the sun's rays begin to warm the earth, visit the spring to meditate and reflect on your own renewal. The quiet murmur of the waters, surrounded by ancient stone and greenery, provides an ideal backdrop for contemplation and setting intentions for the coming season. Bruton’s Historic Gardens: A Quiet Celebration of SpringIn Bruton itself, the Piet Oudolf gardens at Hauser & Wirth offer a serene and contemporary space to experience the first stirrings of spring. Nestled in the heart of the town, this renowned gallery also features a beautifully curated landscape that seamlessly blends art and nature. On the equinox, take a moment to wander through the gardens, letting the sculptures and natural beauty inspire a deep connection to the season of renewal. The contrast of modernity and nature here embodies the essence of transformation — a perfect reflection of the spirit of the equinox.Stourhead Gardens: A Majestic Walk Through HistoryFor those seeking a grander connection to the changing season, a visit to Stourhead Gardens, just a short journey from Bruton, provides an awe-inspiring setting. The 18th-century landscape garden, with its classical temples, pristine lakes, and meandering paths, offers a sweeping view of nature’s awakening. On the day of the equinox, take a contemplative walk through the gardens, letting the stillness of the trees and the soft whisper of the water remind you of the quiet power of nature’s cycles. Stonehenge: The Ancient AlignmentsThough a bit further afield, the world-famous Stonehenge offers an unparalleled experience of the equinox. This ancient stone circle, believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes, aligns perfectly with the sun’s rising and setting on the equinox, creating a truly mystical atmosphere. The energy of the site is palpable as the ancient stones catch the first light of dawn, and the spirits of the past feel ever-present. For those with a reverence for the sacred, Stonehenge provides an unforgettable experience of the balance and renewal that defines the equinox. A Moment to Honour BalanceAs the Spring Equinox unfolds across Somerset and Bruton, it is a reminder that the earth, in all its quiet majesty, offers us the space to reconnect, to rejuvenate, and to find balance in our own lives. Whether you stand atop Glastonbury Tor, walk through the gardens at Hauser & Wirth, or simply pause to watch the light dance across the hills, this is a time to honor both the old and the new.May this season bring clarity and growth, and may we find within ourselves the same equilibrium that the earth so graciously offers us. The Spring Equinox is not merely a moment in time; it is an invitation to embrace renewal, to look inward, and to step into the world with a fresh sense of purpose and connection.
