On our 10-kilometer (six-mile) shorter day walk for women of any or no faith, we will make a modern-day pilgrimage along a section of the famous Via Francigena or “Way that comes from France” from Shepherdswell station near the North Downs Pilgrim Way to the picturesque village of Womenswold and back.
Dating back to the Middle Ages, The Via Francigena is considered the mother of all European pilgrim routes. From Dover, pilgrims would have crossed the channel and journeyed 1700km (1100 miles) through France and Switzerland, to Rome.
Our journey today is for all women- especially for those who have suffered life’s challenges or bereavements. Your loss could be a career, a relationship, your health… you may be a bereaved parent or partner and wish to take time out to walk through your losses in a hopeful way.
Your pilgrim guide Faye has experienced a host of such losses and walked her way to improved mental and physical health alongside others. She creates a safe space to remember, be heard or remain silent, as we enjoy a precious opportunity to reflect in soothing rhythm through the natural beauty of our Kent countryside. With your pilgrim companions, you will learn about nature, history and get a chance to experience some optional pilgrim practices along the way.
Our ‘by women, for women’ pilgrimage may also be an emotional journey to connect deeply with yourself, others and the natural world. Whatever your reason, your guide Faye has discovered the healing power of walking through loss and trauma and looks forward to hearing your story, should you wish to tell it. There is also power in sharing food together, and the women of St Margaret’s Womenswold wish to warmly welcome us in the spirit of pilgrim hospitality with a delicious lunch – a Mount Joy moment indeed!
Start Date
12/08/2023
End Date
12/08/2023
Start location
Address Line 1
Shepherdswell Railway Station
City
Dover
Postcode
CT15 7PD
End location
Address Line 1
Shepherdswell Railway Station
City
Dover
Postcode
CT15 7PD
Area
South West England
Travel Advice
Travelling to the route start:
We always recommend the greenest option of public transport where possible.
By train: Shepherdswell Station is on the Dover branch of the Chatham Main Line to London Victoria. The nearest main stations are Canterbury
Return from Canterbury West from which Southeastern operate a high-speed train from St Pancras in just 51 minutes. Canterbury East from London Victoria is only a five-minute walk from Canterbury city centre.
We meet at 10.30am at Shepherdswell Station for welcomes and introductions. Dover train arrives 10.27 currently. We conclude around 3pm at Shepherdswell Station
By car: Shepherdswell Station postcode CT15 7PD. Return by train is 17 minutes to Canterbury East.
What To Bring
Suitable clothing, footwear, packed lunch, snacks and sufficient water.
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