Pilgrimage of Hope: Journey Through East Anglia

Source: Diocese of East Anglia

Pilgrims across England and Wales are being invited to take part in the Pilgrimage of Hope.

The Pilgrimage of Hope is a national walking pilgrimage culminating at the Cathedral Church of St Barnabas in Nottingham on Saturday 13 September 2025, the eve of the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

The pilgrimage, a key initiative of the Hearts in Search of God project, is designed to inspire spiritual renewal through the ancient practice of pilgrimage. With four main pilgrimage routes - known as the 'Ways' - beginning at the Catholic cathedrals in Cardiff, Leeds, Norwich and Southwark (London), the paths will converge in Nottingham, forming a powerful Sign of the Cross over the map of England and Wales.

The route passing through our diocese is St Luke's Way, beginning at St John the Baptist Cathedral in Norwich on 4 September and continuing through East Anglia on its way to Nottingham. The journey will include visits to Catholic and other Christian churches along the route, offering moments of prayer, reflection and fellowship.

A core group of 'perpetual pilgrims' will walk the entire distance of each Way, while day pilgrims are warmly welcomed to join individual stages. Spaces for day pilgrims are limited to around 20 per stage, and registration is open now - but closes on 21 August 2025.

In addition to the four principal routes, there are optional feeder routes linking other Catholic cathedrals across England and Wales to the main pilgrimage paths. Shorter walks are also available for many stages, ensuring that pilgrims of all ages and abilities can take part.

All routes have been designed to follow established hiking trails, avoiding roads wherever possible and encouraging a prayerful engagement with nature and the land.

To find out more, including stage routes and parish stops along the Way, and to register as a day pilgrim, please visit:

www.pilgrimways.org.uk/become-a-pilgrim-for-a-day