The Petal Walks – A Pilgrimage for Everyone

Not everyone has the time, stamina or opportunity to walk the entire 41-mile Saint Aelred's Pilgrim Trail. That is why the Petal Walks are such a valuable part of the Trail, offering a series of circular walks that begin and end at one of our Trail churches.

For regular walker Richard Lee, the Petal Walks have become something more than simply a pleasant day out.

"I look on each one as a mini-pilgrimage," he writes, explaining how starting and finishing at a church gives each walk a spiritual focus. At the end of every walk he visits the church, stamps his walk instructions and marks the completion of another small pilgrimage.

Richard describes the Petal Walks as being "designed with people like me in mind" – those who love the idea of pilgrimage but prefer shorter, more manageable walks. Along the way he has discovered spectacular scenery, peaceful churches and routes that have become firm favourites.

Among the highlights are the breathtaking ridge above Hawnby, the outstanding views from the Bilsdale walk, the peaceful beauty of Rievaulx, and the quiet satisfaction of discovering places he had never visited before despite years of walking in Ryedale. Even where paths proved challenging, the detailed route notes and downloadable Ordnance Survey maps kept him on track.

The Petal Walks are a reminder that pilgrimage isn't always about covering long distances. Sometimes it is about taking time to slow down, explore a beautiful landscape, visit an ancient church and return home refreshed.

Leaflets for each Petal Walk are available in our Trail churches, and downloadable route guides can also be found on the Saint Aelred's Pilgrim Trail website. Whether you're looking for a gentle afternoon stroll or a day exploring the North York Moors, why not choose a Petal Walk and begin your own mini-pilgrimage?