Janet Bell MBE will retire later this year after 13 years as director of Glastonbury Abbey, the charity has confirmed.

Appointed in 2013, Ms Bell has led one of Somerset's most iconic heritage sites through major conservation projects and significant change, including the creation of the new visitor entrance, opened in April 2025 as part of the Abbey Yard Project.

She was awarded an MBE in 2022 for services to heritage, particularly in recognition of her leadership and fundraising during the Covid pandemic.

Chair of Trustees David Odgers said: "Everybody connected with Glastonbury Abbey is saddened by the retirement later this year of Janet Bell MBE who has served as director for the past 13 years. Her contribution to the abbey has been extraordinary and her calm leadership has been inspirational.

"Her departure does provide a rare opportunity for a new director to lead one of England's most important historic and spiritual sites into its next chapter."

Applications for the role of director are now open. Full details are available on the Glastonbury Abbey website.

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