We've tried to cover the most frequently asked quesitons here.  If you can't find an answer to your question please just Contact Us using the details at the bottom of the page.

 

The basics

I've never done a pilgrimage before.  What should I expect?

It's a great question!  We've called the event Walk Talk Pray as that's what we're hoping will happen.  It's an opportunity to spend time with others away from normal distractions of life to talk together, about faith, life, or whatever is on your mind.

 

At the start, middle and end of each day we'll also be joining a more formal service.  These may be something you are familiar with or something entirely new.  Our hope is that whether in the familiar or the new you'll encounter God.

 

This guide to Pilgrimage, taken from our friends in the Order of the Mustard Seed, is worth taking a few minutes to read too.

 

Do I have to be a Christian?

No, not at all.  The walk is open to all, whether you've been a Christian for decades, exploring faith, or just wanted to join the walk and hear what others have to say.

 

There's no obligation to join in any part of the day, but we hope you'll be able to take something from any elements you join in with.

 

I can't really walk that far, can I still take part?

Yes.  The walk crosses various terrains and while some sections are quite flat (e.g. Saturday morning ) it is still quite a long way!  If you're not able to join the in the whole walk then you're welcome to join some sections or just meet at any of the venues.

 

What does it cost?

There's no charge for the event.  There is a cost to enter Hailes Abbey and we'd like to give a gift to the churches we visit and would welcome voluntary donations towards these costs.  If you have membership for English Heritage or National Trust then please bring your card as this will cover the cost of entry to Hailes Abbey.

 

Where can I find the route?

You can download gpx files for the route.  These covers Friday and Saturday.

 

Are there toilet facilities on the route?

There are some toilet facilities on the route, either at the churches we'll be visiting or in nearby pubs.

 

 

What should i wear?

Foot wear

There are some quiet muddy sections of the walk and good footwear is recommended.  Walking boots would be best, or if you're happy walking in them for a long distance then wellies.  We wouldn't recommend walking this route in trainers.

 

Clothing

Do make sure you dress for the weather.  It's the UK in May, so a waterproof coat is likely to be a good idea, but equally a hat to protect you from the sun could be essential.  It's worth checking the forecast the day before.  There are no areas with significant overgrowth or nettles so shorts will be fine (weather permitting).

 

 

Transport

How do I get to and from the start / finish?

Friday

We're planning to get a taxi to Fladbury from Dumbleton at 8.30am so we can pick up our cars at the end of the day.  Please plan to meet promptly outside of St. Peter's Dumbleton.  There is some, limited, on street parking a short distance from the church.

 

Saturday

We will be travelling by minibus from Back Street Car Park in Winchcombe, leaving at 8.30 to travel to Dumbleton.  Please plan to meet prompty in the car park.  The cost of parking is £1 for the day.

 

Please let us know if you're intending to take up these options so we can ensure there is sufficent space.

 

If you need to depart (or join) at lunch time and want to leave a car in Ashton-Under-Hill or at Hailes Abbey then there is plenty of parking available at each location.  You will need to make your own arrangements to get to / from those locations to join us.

 

Are there any public transport options?

Due to the rural nature of these sections of St Kenelm's Way, opportunties to access them via public transport is extremely limited.  There is a bus service from Winchcombe back to Cheltenham.

 

 

Food and Drink

Food

Pilgrimage routes around the world are known to benefit local communities they pass through and we want this to be no exception.  There are some options in the villages we'll pass through to buy lunch or you can carry your own packed lunch with you.

 

Water

There will be opportunity to refill water bottles when we break for lunch each day, as well as have a hot drink.