The Pilgrims' Way to Canterbury begins in two ancient religious centres, Winchester and Southwark
The routes converge outside London before continuing through Kent.
Southwark has numerous Winchester connections. It was once part of the huge Diocese of Winchester, the Cathedral has an east end screen similar to the one at Winchester Cathedral, the Bishop of Winchester lived next door to the Cathedral and the Tabard inn in Borough High Street, from where pilgrims set out, was owned by a Winchester Abbey.
The Tabard is where Geoffrey Chaucer's diverse characters in The Canterbury Tales gather for their journey to Canterbury.
Archbishop Thomas Becket stayed in Southwark just weeks before his dramatic murder in Canterbury which sparked the centuries of pilgrimage now being revived.
All those who are undertaking a pilgrimage for spiritual reasons or with an openess to learn and be changed by the experience can pick up a Pilgrim's Passport pack from the Cathedral Shop for £1. This pack will includes a Pilgrim Passport, Prayer Card and a Journey of Hope booklet produced by the Cathedral which can also be downloaded for free at the links.
As you progress along the route, ask Churches or local businesses, B&Bs, pubs, or cafes to stamp and date your passport.
Visit https://www.pilgrimswaycanterbury.org/ and www.thepilgrimsway.co.uk for further information.
We recommend you purchase a copy of The Pilgrims Way: To Canterbury from Winchester and London published by Cicerone and written by Leigh Hatts a member of our congregation. Copies are available from the Cathedral Shop or online store here as well as all good bookshops.
