The Sanctuary Network

I walked the route from Jedburgh onwards over 4 days. It is a beautiful walk, helped by some September sunshine. I walked with a friend and we thoroughly enjoyed it. It is way marked really well, but we also bought the guide book. Walking across the pilgrim route of the causeway to Lindisfarne in our barefeet was a very spiritual experience. The buses that run from Lindisfarne seem to have a law unto themselves, making it difficult to plan getting off the island during the safe period! I would recommend an overnight stay if you want to explore it more fully.

Thank you BPT for listing this beautiful pilgrim path walk. I walked this path with three fellow pilgrims last week. We covered 17km, choosing the lower route under the Long Man of Wilmington, rather than up and over, due to it being such a hot day. There are 7 ancient churches to visit on route, each soaked in history. Each church has a “pilgrim pot” where you can leave a thought or message for one that follows and take a thought for your journey. The church in Berwick has amazing wall frescos to see and Wilmington’s ancient yew tree is a shady spot to rest. The countryside is stunning and we were so impressed at how well signposted the route was. We started our walk from Alciston, planning to stop half way and have a tasty lunch in Badger’s in Alfriston. We passed a few pubs on the way too, so plenty of opportunities for refreshment if required.

An awe-inspiring route with a feeling of deep history. Accommodation was tricky so we relied on public transport and a few multi-night stays. We also did a detour to see the Ring of Brodgar. The cathedral at the end is like no other and so special to find a place with original relics in place. If you plan to start in Egilsay make sure you book the boat as far in advance as you can.

This was my first pilgrimage walk but won't be the last. Dawn was an inspiring guide in so many ways - teaching us, entertaining us and caring for us. It was wonderful to get to know new people as we trod in the footsteps of so many unknown walkers who had gone before us. I had a sense of awe at so many points - for the coastal scenery, the birdlife, the ancient trees and for the buildings that had witnessed so much history. And it was such a lovely surprise to be welcomed with tea in Apuldram Church - so very kind. I am very grateful that I could be part of this day.

It has been fantastic to discover new and ancient connections between these two lands. The two halves feel very different but the welcome from the local people is warm and friendly everywhere. Was really touched at the Tulach a’ tSolais monument in Wexford. Seeing seals and porpoise on the Pembrokeshire side was stunning. St David's was a beautiful place to conclude the journey and is already luring me back for a longer stay.

Just completed the walk from Reading to Southampton. It was a delight! We bought the little guide book from the Reading museum and combined with the well-placed way markers, we always knew where we were. Compliments to the volunteers who placed them! Including Reading, we were on the trail for nine nights. We were able to secure accommodation at various pubs, hotels, or Airbnb along the route. The weather was near perfect and the English countryside is beautiful. We’ll be back!

The Avebury Pilgrimage was a joyful experience. Guy brought wonder and deep connection to the group experience. The other pilgrims were warm, fun and willing to surrender to this rich experience of movement, landscape, the past and the unseen world all around us. Thank you Guy!

Completed this walk (all 240 miles) in stages over a year. It is absolutely fabulous and well planned route avoiding main roads and busy towns. Spectacular views and places. Somewhat challenging as quite hilly in places but it was all worth it. Stayed in some sanctuaries that were all fabulous. Ended in Canterbury by joining choral evesong that was just beautiful end to the journey. Highly recommended route.

Our family of four from the States completed the Cornish Celtic Way over 2 weeks in August 2023. We adapted it on two days in order to attend Mass in St. Austell and to visit St. Michael’s Chapel in Roche. The Cornish Celtic Way concept is wonderfully well conceived by Rev. Marns and the path of the rural walk excellently executed. Our 157 mile pilgrimage has been outlined in 15 daily itineraries on the Outdoor Active hiking app. Each day includes a map as well as a record of miles and hours walked. We have detailed our daily endeavors and reviews of our church visits. Spiritual practices and reflections are included for those who may wish to walk a similar route through Cornwall or indeed on any pilgrimage. While a pilgrimage such as the Cornish Celtic Way can be physically arduous, it yields great mental refreshment and spiritual renewal. It is, truthfully, great fun. Our goal in establishing these intentional prayer habits was to help us maintain spiritual rigor while enjoying Cornwall’s wonderful scenery, food and people. Thank you, BPT, for your efforts and commitment!

My favourite part was walking in silence and being able to just concentrate on the purpose of my pilgrimage without the noise and baggage of life getting in the way. Abigail was a wonderful guide. She was thoughtful and brought a calm and sense of spiritual purpose to the day. I absolutely loved the walk.

Many good moments but two things stand out: Chalice Well and the impromptu singing of a wassail song on the way up Glastonbury Tor, by an apple orchard. It was cold yet rather lovely to do a pilgrimage in the frost. Informed and engaging guide. Friendly and supportive fellow pilgrims. Such a good ethos.

I loved walking through the countryside and the fascinating sights such as the church mill and barrow. The lanterns were lovely too and the Wassail singing and cake were a lovely touch. The arrival at Canterbury was spectacular. It was a lovely day and Dawn is a terrific guide.

Dawn was absolutely brilliant. Brought the group together and was so knowledgeable . Really warm individual and so caring. Just an amazing experience all round. Can't thank you enough for the experience.

My favourite part was Dawn singing to us by Kits Coty - sublime when the sun came out for us at the end of the song. Dawn has a lovely sincerity and her singing was wonderful. Also the Canon’s pilgrim’s blessing In Winchester Cathedral was an unexpected and perfect end to the day

I enjoyed listening to Guy's singing in the different settings - enhanced the experience and linked us to the past. The whole day was beautifully facilitated with a perfect balance of history overview, time for reflection and walking. It was very special - thank you so much!

I signed up on a whim without really knowing what I had signed up to, and it turned out to be the most extraordinary, magical day - starting with Guy's singing in the Chapel and culminating at those fabulous springs. The information, songs, chat and group experience were all wonderful. I can't recommend this pilgrimage highly enough - and I also hugely appreciate all the references in the follow up email. Brilliant. Thank you Guy!!

I loved the whole pilgrimage. A day of great connection with people, nature, sacred places, past and present. Also particularly enjoyed Guy's singing which added something special and his commentary. Also the friendliness of fellow pilgrims in the group which was partly enabled by having a buddy and introductory exercise.

Very grateful for the work that’s being done by all who are mapping the routes and sharing their knowledge. All this while I’m still mobile and can join in with day walks ... I asked for the book for my birthday and it has much in it. The Green King though was more my thing, lower key with lots in nature. I am very keen on sacred water sites (following the work of Veda Austin) so would enjoy more of those if possible. One day walks are really fab. Thank you everyone.

A fabulous enlightening day. The people, places and fascinating insights - I felt very privileged and grateful.

Guy, I just wanted to say thank for your time and knowledge yesterday. It was an amazing afternoon in spite of the weather. I am sitting here today in quiet contemplation with a deep sense of peace bathing my heart in a warm, fuzzy glow. It is an extraordinary feeling. I think you must have been a troubadour in a previous life! With gratitude.