Epworth to Lincoln

Epworth to Lincoln – 48 miles – 4 days

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‍St Hugh of Lincoln built Lincoln Cathedral in 1185, and his funeral was attended by two Kings and three Archbishops. For the next 300 years there was a steady stream of pilgrims to St Hugh’s Shrine in the Cathedral, almost as important as that of Thomas a Becket in Canterbury.

Epworth was chosen as the starting point for this second pilgrimage in the series ‘Journeys of Faith’ as it is the birthplace of John and Charles Wesley, who co-founded the Methodist movement in the 18^th century. Methodists are famed for their singing and music formed an important part of their worship, with Charles remembered for his exceptional legacy of hymns, which totalled more than 6,000 pieces.

On their way to Lincoln Cathedral, pilgrims will be able to stop at and explore 15 churches and other points of interest, including The Old Rectory where the Wesley brothers were born in the early 1700s. One highlight is the magnificent Anglo-Saxon and Norman Stow Minster – a splendid, sacred space pilgrims are encouraged to spend time visiting.