Walsingham

From the late 11th Century, up until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the mid 16th Century (during the reign of Henry VIII) Walsingham was considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the world. It was not until the late 19th Century that Walsingham was restored as a place of pilgrimage.

The Anglican Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham is located in the centre of the village - there are no clues set within the grounds of the Shrine. It is, however, highly recommended that additional time be allowed during your visit in order to take time away from the Trail to explore both the Shrine Church and its beautiful grounds. Furthermore, again outside of the Trail, a visit to the grounds of Walsingham Abbey / Priory Gardens comes highly recommended (although please note admission charges apply and opening hours are limited). The Catholic National Shrine is located at the Slipper Chapel in the nearby village of Houghton St Giles.

Pilgrimages to the shrines at Walsingham take place many times throughout the year including The Student Cross pilgrimage on Good Friday, the Anglican National Pilgrimage on the Spring bank holiday (the Monday following the last Sunday in May) and the National Youth Pilgrimage in August.

This is a walking Trail in the Treasure Hunt format. The Trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and you should allow up to 1.5 hours to complete it. Please allow longer should you wish to visit the Shrine of our Lady in Walsingham and/or the Priory Gardens. The ground underfoot is, for the most part, good and, whilst there are a number of gentle inclines, the Trail is considered suitable for both pushchairs and wheelchairs. Please note that the Trail takes you along roads, narrow in places, where there are no pavements. Additional care should be taken along these sections.

The Trail starts in the Old Mill car park (NR22 6DH) where pay and display parking is available.