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Losing a child is the most devastating thing a parent can experience. This guided walk will bring together bereaved parents and siblings (who are often the forgotten grievers). We will connect with and support each other using the power of walking and nature. Over two days we will journey as a group of up to 20 pilgrims through the Sussex countryside. Our journey will conclude on the third day in the companionship of friends and family. Companions can either join for the whole of the last day or the last small section and the beach.The Journey:
Day 1: 8.5 miles
We begin in the ruins of Lewes Priory, setting our intentions for the journey ahead. Passing through the town we head for the hills, experiencing the silence of Bible Bottom valley and the heights of Mount Caburn, a site of prehistoric ritual and burial. From there we spend time in the architectural splendour of Glynde, before crossing country to Beddingham and the site of an Anglo Saxon minster with medieval wall paintings. We then make our way through farmland to Firle, where we rest for the night in Sanctuary at St Peters Church.
Day 2: 10 miles
Rising to Firle Beacon, we’ll take in views of countryside and sea before returning to the valley and spectacular murals of the Bloomsbury Group in Berwick, celebrating turning seasons and cycle of life. Crossing the river at Alfriston, we’ll ascend to the ancient tumuli above the Long Man of Wilmington, before following the footsteps of pilgrims to the remarkable ancient yew at the former priory. Returning to Alfriston we take Sanctuary overnight at the Old Chapel Centre.
Day 3: 6.5 miles
Beginning in The Tye, we’ll meet up with our friends and family who have supported us through our grief to walk with us for the final day. Taking the longer path, we’ll wander through woodland and historic villages to emerge over the oxbows. At Exceat, we are joined by any remaining supporters who wish to see us complete our journey. We follow the flow of water down Cuckmere Haven to meet the sea, release our intentions and end our pilgrimage witnessed by the Seven Sisters with an optional dip or paddle in the sea. When ready, pilgrims return to Exceat to make their journeys home.
Carry My Loved Ones
If you are unable to make this journey but would like us to walk on your behalf, you can submit the name of a lost loved one along with a donation to the pilgrimage. Names of loved ones will be printed and carried by the group, who will honour their names during moments of remembrance and at the closing of the pilgrimage.
What’s Included:
- Fully guided 3 day journey for parents grieving children age 5+ with companions on final day
- Various pilgrim practices, such as periods of deliberate silence; barefoot walking; wildflower foraging; stories, songs and folklore; discovering natural beauty and wild places; opportunities to remember and honour our loved ones.
- Overnight accommodation in Sanctuary and a simple breakfast
- Baggage transfer
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Lewes Priory Park, Cockshut Road,Lewes, East Sussex, United Kingdom
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