For generations, pilgrimages have been a part of sacred journeys to holy, wholesome or special places. Pilgrimage can be for anyone, for wellbeing and mindfulness, or also exploring faith, nature and self.
Chichester Cathedral has been an important landmark for pilgrims for centuries. From 1245 to 1253 Richard de la Wyche was Bishop of Chichester, nine years after his death, he was canonised as Saint Richard of Chichester. A shrine was dedicated to Saint Richard, which made the Cathedral an important centre for pilgrimage.
You can take a Pilgrimage in a variety of ways.
By Foot
The British Pilgrimage Trust have created a variety of self-led pilgrimage routes to the Cathedral in which you can complete in your own time.
The Old Way is an ancient 250 mile route from Southampton to Canterbury, followed by European and British pilgrims who sought Thomas Becket’s shrine in Canterbury. The route for The Old Way dates to c.1360, developed from the Gough map, a Late Medieval map of Great Britain. Follow the coastal channels of The Old Way through to Chichester Cathedral and visit our sacred Shrine.
By Bike
Looking for a challenge? Then take part in The Cathedrals Cycle Route with the Association of English Cathedrals and the British Pilgrimage Trust, who have established a pilgrimage route to every Church of England Cathedral. Follow spiritual pathways and encounter different places of worship, whilst using the time for reflection and mindfulness.
Online
Wishing to join us virtually? Follow our Virtual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Saint Richard from the Cathedral’s West Door to the historic Shrine. This pilgrimage is an opportunity to discover more about the well-trodden route and the history of the many Chapels, objects and art.