Walking the Pilgrims' Way

To Canterbury from Winchester and London

The Pilgrims' Way is England's camino, with two ancient routes linking Canterbury with London and Winchester. The murder of St Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170 triggered a flow of pilgrims which has continued to this day. In common with the pilgrimage across France and Spain to Santiago de Compostela, the Pilgrims' Way has grown in popularity.

The route from London, down the Darenth Valley from Dartford, converges with the Winchester path at Otford in Kent. Modern pilgrims can cross the River Medway to pass through Aylesford where a revived monastery offers hospitality. All along the way, inns and ancient churches claim pilgrimage to be part of their living local heritage.

• information on historical figures, including St Thomas Becket, and related points of interest
• best walked in summer for long days and lush scenery
• an unspoilt landscape with a fascinating history