Story
Help Me Raise Money for Vulnerable Children!
I’m embarking on a personal trek, walking the Pilgrims' Way from Winchester to Canterbury, all to support The Children's Society. This incredible charity has been a beacon of strength and support for young people facing tough times for over 140 years. They don’t just offer support and counselling for those in difficult circumstances—they actively campaign for social changes that can truly transform lives and build a future where every child feels hopeful and valued.
The walk will be completed in different stages over the course of two weeks. Along the way, I plan to keep daily updates, and collect messages of hope and encouragement from the people I meet to become part of a record about the experience.
I’m aiming to raise money to support The Children's Society's vital work. Please join me on this journey by donating whatever you can, as every little truly helps to change children's lives.
What is The Children's Society?
'For 140 years, The Children’s Society has been here for young people when they most need support. Today, we’ve never been more determined to create a society built for all children. We draw on our experience and expertise; by listening to and empowering young people throughout teenhood. We collaborate tirelessly, building a movement with everyone who shares our vision. Because every child deserves to feel hopeful, happy and excited for their future.' - The Children's Society
What is the Pilgrims' Way?
'As an ancient byway dating back as far as the Stone Age because of its topography that forms a natural causeway, pilgrims have followed this path to Canterbury since the 12th century in order to pay respects to Saint and martyr Thomas Becket. The former Archbishop is enshrined at Canterbury Cathedral, where he was murdered in 1170. The route was brought back to the attention of the travelling public in the 20th century by Anglo-French writer and travel essayist, Hilaire Belloc. Indeed, it is sometimes described as Belloc’s Old Road. The original medieval pilgrims and their colourful stories were, of course, fictionalised in Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales.' - Responsible Travel
What are the Stages?
The walk will be split into 15 stages of various length:
1. Winchester to Alresford
2. Alresford to Alton
3. Alton to Farnham
4. Farnham to Guildford
5. Guildford to Box Hill
6. Box Hill to Merstham
7. Merstham to Oxted
8. Oxted to Otford
9. Otford to Wrotham
10. Wrotham to Halling
11. Halling to Aylesford
(11a. Peters Village to Rochester)
12. Aylesford to Harrietsham
13. Harrietsham to Boughton Lees
14. Boughton Lees to Chilham
15. Chilham to Canterbury
(Credit to Leigh Hatts for the route planning)