Summer Pilgrimage Trails - Discover the charm and history of our historic churches
This summer holidays, why not set out on a pilgrimage a little closer to home? Across Sussex, welcoming churches invite visitors of all ages to explore, reflect, and enjoy a day out with a difference.
The Diocese’s Summer Pilgrimage Trails highlights beautiful and historic churches, each offering a chance to combine discovery, fresh air, and quiet moments of reflection. Whether you come as a family, with friends, or on your own, these short pilgrim journeys are designed to be simple, enjoyable, and enriching.
Throughout the summer, our pilgrim destinations will be featured on the Diocesan social media channels, including St George’s West Grinstead, St Mary’s Rye, the Cuckmere Pilgrim Path, St Peter Hamsey with St Peter Offham, and Chichester Cathedral.
For the final pilgrimage, Bishop Ruth will be leading a pilgrimage for young people (11-17) on 19 September around Chichester Harbour and the City walls. Book your place now.
Cuckmere, Pilgrim Path
The circular walk passes through the South Downs, Low Weald and Cuckmere Valley, around seven ancient rural churches. The route is along existing footpaths which can be walked in one day, it offers a perfect setting for both tranquillity and reflection.
You can find more details on the route here: Cuckmere Pilgrim Path
Explore Holy Trinity, Bosham, a truly remarkable church situated alongside one of the inlets of Chichester Harbour. Steeped in history, it is said to be the place where King Canute’s daughter drowned, and it even features in the Bayeux Tapestry. Inside, visitors can encounter centuries of worship, including a striking Saxon font, while outside the setting offers wide views across the harbour.
St Mary’s, Rye
With one of the oldest working clocks in England (dating from 1561), St Mary’s has stood for over 900 years in the heart of Rye. Once dubbed the ‘Cathedral of East Sussex’,the Church has gone through times of hardship and great prosperity, throughout it all it has been a site of great resilience. Come take in the beautiful interior and striking tower above Rye!
You can learn more about St Mary’s here: History - The Parish Church of St Mary, Rye
St Andrew and St Mary, Fletching
Set within the picturesque village overlooking the Ouse Valley, St Andrew and St Mary’s is steeped in both history and natural beauty. Between the striking architecture and serene setting, the church offers pilgrims a place for both stillness and reflection, against the backdrop of the rolling countryside.
You can find further details here: Fletching Church | Discover Community & Faith Today
St George, West Grinstead
Sitting near the River Adur for almost a thousand years, St George’s is the heart of West Grinstead parish. The Grade II listed church houses some spellbinding stained glass windows and offers pilgrims a place of quiet reflection rooted in the centuries of worship and surrounded by the peaceful countryside.
You can find more information about the parish here: About Us | West Grinstead Churches
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St Peter Hamsey with St Peter Offham
Nestled into the peaceful countryside, St Peter’s Hamsey and St Peter’s Offham offer a glimpse into Sussex’s ancient Christian heritage. These rural churches offer a quiet space for prayer and reflection, surrounded by gentle landscapes and deep-rooted history that have long inspired pilgrimage and worship.
You can find further details here: Church of England Worship | St Peter Offam and Hamsey England | England
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Wherever you begin, you are invited to step out, slow down, and discover the rich heritage and quiet beauty of Sussex’s sacred places.
Why not make it a family day out - add the pilgrimage suggestions to your diary.
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