[Church of England] Two new pilgrimage routes are being launched this summer and early autumn, offering opportunities for individuals and families to explore the sacred landscapes and spiritual heritage of Britain.
These initiatives reflect a growing interest in walking and cycling pilgrimages as a way to slow down, reflect and reconnect with God’s creation.
The Diocese of Exeter has unveiled the Lee Abbey to Lundy Way, a 20-mile pilgrimage between St. Mary’s Church in Lynton and St. Helen’s Church on Lundy Island.
Pilgrims travel between Lundy Island and Ilfracombe on the mainland by ferry in summer, or helicopter in winter. As they pass along the Devon coast, the route takes them to Lee Abbey, the Christian retreat center, for a blessing before continuing. The route, devised by the Rev. Jane Skinner, is the fifth in the Devon Pilgrim project and includes stops at several churches where pilgrims can collect stamps in their pilgrim passports.
“Pilgrimage is having a moment,” Skinner said. “I’m keen that everyone feels they can have a go without needing to travel abroad.”
In September, the Diocese of Bristol will mark the launch of the final 40-mile section of the Athelstan Pilgrim Way, a 100-mile walking and cycling route through North Wiltshire.
This family-friendly pilgrimage includes 11 churches in the Braydon Brook and Upper Thames benefices, with shorter walks available for younger or time-limited pilgrims. The launch event at St. Sampson’s Church, Cricklade, will feature a talk by the writer and environmentalist Martin Palmer. Guidebooks, pilgrim passports and a companion volume on the churches are available, along with a children’s trail featuring Stan the dog.
Both routes reflect a growing interest in pilgrimage as a means to experience faith through movement, nature and community.
Bishop of Exeter Bishop Mike Harrison, speaking about Lundy Island, said, “This is a place with a very long, deep Christian spirituality associated with it. You can feel that as you walk around.”
Whether walking along the cliffs of Lundy or through the villages of Wiltshire, these pilgrimages provide a meaningful way to connect with the past and present in a spirit of exploration and contemplation.
As Skinner put it, “Here is a chance to walk on the earth. This is time to slow down, reflect, rejoice and gain a sense of achievement.”