A new pilgrimage route linking Lichfield Cathedral with Polesworth Abbey in Warwickshire via Tamworth has been launched.
St Editha’s Way – around 15 miles long, or roughly a five-hour walk – takes in Staffordshire’s two largest churches, as well as a ruined priory, two ancient wells and Grade I listed Tamworth Castle.
The route, which features canal towpaths, countryside and woodland, was designed to bring visitors of all faiths and none to the area and to stimulate interest in the history and heritage of Tamworth and the surrounding region.
Conceived and developed by St Editha’s Church, Tamworth, in conjunction with the Tamworth Town Centre Forum, and supported by heritage and civic bodies in the borough, it is hoped that the pilgrimage will help to build on interest in the ancient Kingdom of Mercia.
St Editha’s Church was a popular pilgrimage destination until the 16th century. The current vicar, Father Andrew Lythall – who is also chair of the Tamworth Town Centre Forum – decided to revive the tradition as part of the town’s Athelstan 1100 celebrations, which celebrated the 1,100th anniversary of the coronation of Athelstan, who became the first King of all England and is said to be St Editha’s brother.
Fr Andrew said: “The new St Editha’s Way route is a brilliant vehicle for people to discover Polesworth, Tamworth and Lichfield and the rich, vibrant history of these ancient places – the story of which continues today.
“Heritage sites, and particularly churches, are not just places of cultural encounter; they are also major engines for the local economy. The Church is at the very heart of the community – particularly in Tamworth – and we are committed to help our town and the surrounding area to flourish in days ahead.”
Walkers can download a PDF guide to the route which can be stamped at Lichfield Cathedral on completion of the journey.