A near 30-mile pilgrimage route connecting eight churches across six villages in Cumbria has been officially launched. The route aims to highlight the rich Christian heritage of the area while encouraging visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Kent Estuary region.
The project was developed by the Kent Estuary Mission Community and features five circular walks along with a return route, supported by a detailed 67-page guidebook.
Launch and Support
The launch event was attended by the Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev Rob Saner-Haigh, who praised the effort and care invested in creating the pilgrimage routes. He emphasised the importance of connecting people with the deep Christian story of the communities and the living faith in Jesus.
The event included open-air worship on Heversham Head, a walk along part of the route, and further worship at St Thomas’ Church in Milnthorpe.
Route and Guidebook Details
The route links churches in Levens, Heversham, Milnthorpe, Beetham, Storth, and Arnside. It offers five circular walks and a return route, designed to promote both spiritual history and the natural environment of the Kent Estuary area.
A 67-page guidebook, priced at £6, has been produced with 500 copies currently available for purchase at the eight churches. There are plans to make the guidebook available in local retailers and tourist information centres.
Project Development
The idea for the guide originated from retired vicar the Rev Colin Honour. The project took over a year to complete and was collated and designed by Jenny Marks of St Michael and All Angels, Beetham.
Jenny Marks noted the significant effort required due to the involvement of multiple churches and the need to research the walks thoroughly.
Community and Faith
Peter Clarke, a member of St Peter’s Heversham and one of the project coordinators, explained that the aim is to encourage people to enjoy the countryside and appreciate the historical and natural richness of the Kent Estuary. The project also seeks to deepen understanding of the churches’ histories and how faith has evolved and remains relevant today.
The pilgrimage route celebrates the distinct identity of each congregation while affirming their shared life as part of a wider faith community.
