Join us on our annual pilgrimage in 2024 to the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham – one of the most Holy places in England.
Embark on a transformative spiritual journey at the annual South Wales Pilgrimage to Walsingham, a sacred pilgrimage like no other.
From July 22 to July 25, 2024, join fellow pilgrims from South Wales and beyond as we follow in the footsteps of generations past to the revered Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham.
Experience the profound sense of devotion, prayer, and togetherness that this cherished pilgrimage offers, and encounter the timeless beauty and blessings of England’s Nazareth.
Secure your place now and be part of this soul-stirring pilgrimage of faith and renewal.
Why is there a Shrine at Walsingham?
In the year 1061, during the reign of St. Edward the Confessor, an extraordinary event unfolded in the quaint village of Walsingham Parva. Richeldis, a widow and Lady of the Manor, received a divine vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In this sacred encounter, the Virgin Mary spiritually transported Richeldis to Nazareth, where she witnessed the very place where the Angel Gabriel had appeared to Mary centuries earlier.
Throughout three divine visions, the Virgin Mary instructed Richeldis to carefully observe the measurements of the Holy House in Nazareth. In a remarkable call to action, Richeldis was entrusted with a heavenly mission – to build a precise replica of the Holy House in Walsingham, henceforth known as England’s Nazareth.
Fueled by unwavering faith and divine guidance, Richeldis embarked on the awe-inspiring endeavor, constructing the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. The shrine stands as a testament to Richeldis’ profound encounter with the Virgin Mary and a symbol of devotion to the Holy Mother.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham has become a place of pilgrimage and spiritual significance, drawing countless faithful seekers throughout the ages. This hallowed site serves as a pilgrimage destination for those seeking Mary’s intercession, comfort, and blessings.
Why do Christians go to Walsingham?
Today, the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham continues to hold a special place in the hearts of pilgrims worldwide. It stands as a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of prayer, and a reminder of the miraculous visions that forever shaped the destiny of Walsingham. Pilgrims who visit the shrine can immerse themselves in the profound spiritual history of England’s Nazareth and experience the profound connection between heaven and earth that Richeldis was privileged to witness over a thousand years ago.
The timeless legacy of the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of faith, the miracles that grace our lives, and the enduring bond between humanity and the divine. As pilgrims continue to tread the sacred grounds of Walsingham, they too partake in the profound journey of devotion and discover the blessings bestowed upon this hallowed site by the Virgin Mary herself.
In that holy place we draw closer to Mary’s Son through prayer and worship, daily Mass, the Ministry of healing and reconciliation and other devotions, as we embrace afresh the mystery of the Incarnation.
Each year, the South Wales Pilgrimage makes it possible for pilgrims from churches across South Wales to journey to Walsingham and experience a home from home, and journey home refreshed and revived!
Read our blog explaining the importance of Walsingham to the South Wales Anglican Christian community.
Booking your pilgrimage
Many pilgrims book with us as part of a larger parish group, whilst others will come alone or with their family or friends.
If your church is participating in this way, then simply speak to the local organiser there who will take your booking and deposit and, closer to the date, the balance.
However, if you’re travelling alone, then you can simply book directly with us. Simply complete and send off the booking form along with your deposit.
If you’ve never been on pilgrimage to Walsingham, you will soon discover how easy it is to become part of a Community of faith on the move, enjoy other people’s company, whilst also being able to spend some time away, if you wish, to enjoy some quiet prayer and silence.
Food and Accommodation
The Shrine offers a variety of accommodation – although it’s important to remember that it’s not a hotel!
Single rooms are limited, and whilst many rooms are en-suite, this cannot be guaranteed, and priority is always given to those who have genuine medical or physical needs. Towels are provided. You will need to bring your own toiletries.
The Shrine gardens are beautiful—a peaceful place in which to sit and rest, alone or with others. All meals are served in the Refectory within the Shrine Grounds.
Beneath the Refectory is the Norton Room, open each day for teas, coffees, cakes, etc, and which also has a licensed bar open in the evenings. In the village, you’ll also find a few gift shops, a grocery shop, coffee shops and a few pubs. However, please note that there is no ATM available.
Getting There
Whilst some pilgrims make their own way on the pilgrimage, many pilgrims travel on one of the coaches which picks up at various places throughout South Wales.
These departure points are determined by the number of pilgrims from particular areas, so you may have to travel to your nearest point. These are obviously limited since we have to be mindful of the driver’s allowed driving time.
Edward Coaches is our coach provider with 49 seater executive coaches with Air Conditioning and toilet. On a smooth run, the journey (including a stop) can take up to six hours after the last pick up point. The scheduled stop is usually at Corley Service Station on the M6 Motorway.
Cost
Accommodation, Meals and Transport: £390 (£290 for those aged 5 – 16 years. Please Note that the Shrine Tariff only provides reductions for those aged 16 years and under
Accommodation and Meals only: £275 (£165 for those aged 5 – 16 years*)
Children under the age of 5 yrs: FREE
Full payment is due by July 1, 2024
(For Half Board and other options please get in touch)
What happens during a pilgrimage to Walsingham?
The South Wales Pilgrimage programme includes:
- Daily Mass in the Shrine Church
- First visit to the Holy House
- Procession of Our Lady of Walsingham
- Ministry of Healing and Reconciliation
- Rite of Sprinkling at the Holy Well
- Stations of the Cross
- Intercession in the Holy House
- Eucharistic Adoration, Procession and Benediction
- Visit to the Roman Catholic Basilica and Shrine
- Time to Relax in the Shrine Ground, explore the village, spend time with others or alone
You may want to check out the 2023 Pilgrimage Pages which give day by day insights and resources for each day of our pilgrimage in July 2023
How to Book
Please complete and return the booking form below, along with £20 non returnable deposit for each person
Walsingham 2024 Poster
Pilgrimage Taster
Discover More
More information about the Shrine and the village of Walsingham can be found at the portal website: www.walsingham.org.uk.
The Shrine’s designated website is www.walsinghamanglicam.org.uk where you can discover something more of its history, heritage and significance.
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Enter the Mystery 