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With BPT’s Guy Hayward singing London songs along the way, you will delve into the heart of England’s history in the modern city, in advance of King Charles' coronation. From the early 14th century until the reign of Charles II, a procession would be led for each coronation along this ancient way from the Tower to Westminster Abbey (where the intact shrine of Saint King Edward the Confessor is in place).The 5-mile route passes through the portal, now marked by the Temple Bar, between the commercial City of London and the political and priestly City of Westminster. There are many beautiful historic churches, places of sanctuary and peace, as well as holy wells, ancient stones and a Roman Temple. The concentration of pilgrim places is particularly high in the City of London, where the churches are only open on weekdays. Although the event officially finishes at 4.30pm, you will be able to enter Westminster Abbey to stay for evensong, sung by the world-famous choir, finishing at 5.45pm.
Take in relics of an old enchantment, when London was thought to be the New Troy, and Westminster Abbey was the holy of holies.
We take a fresh urban approach to the ancient art of pilgrimage.
Ruby Wax described this London pilgrimage experience as 'the real thing...earth-shatteringly interesting'! It really is the most surprisingly impactful day – many pilgrims have been stunned by the pilgrim riches that London offers.
Porter.com covered it here and London Real made a 3-min video here. Listen to a podcast with Rupert Sheldrake and Mark Vernon discussing the experience of BPT's guided pilgrimage here.
(Your ticket includes a £10 donation shared between the churches we will visit. The reason this happens on a weekday is because the pilgrim places are open during the week but not at the weekend).
Open to All (Bring your own Beliefs)
This Pilgrimage will include:
- New ways of meeting old pilgrim places (bring your own beliefs...) - London songs on the path - Opportunities for silence and musical rapture
What to bring
Appropriate London clothes and shoes; Waterproofs or Umbrella; Waterbottle.
FAQ’s
Who can come? Anyone over 18 (or under 18 with parental guidance, bearing in mind the walking distance).
Is this religious? All and no-faiths are equally welcome. We operate a “Bring Your Own Beliefs” policy. We ask that all participating pilgrims tolerate one another, whatever their beliefs.
Will I be asked to share my feelings with the group? We like to keep things light and breezy, so there will be no group emotional sharing moments. If you want to share your feelings in personal conversation when walking with others that is up to you, but certainly not compulsory.
Are there fitness limitations? Pilgrimage is moderately intense. If you struggle to walk all day, this type of pilgrimage may be an unsuitable activity for you right now. There are always plenty of escape points en route. But we will walk slowly, and start early, and five miles is a very manageable distance for the majority of people. Unfortunately this pilgrimage is not suited for mobility-impaired people or those requiring wheelchair access.
Can I bring my dog? Sadly not - we can’t accommodate dogs on our guided pilgrimages. However, if you have a registered assistance dog, they are welcome.
What does my money go? What's this all for? The funds raised from this limited space event allow the team at British Pilgrimage Trust (a registered charity) to spend more time making it possible for thousands of pilgrims to make pilgrimage themselves by engaging with our ever-increasing range of free resources. For more details about our charitable activities, please check here.
If you would like to make a donation in addition to, or in place of, a ticket, click here.
We hope to see you on the path.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
All Hallows by the Tower, All Hallows by the Tower, Byward Street,London, United Kingdom
Tickets