different century. Same spirit.
Modern life is more connected than ever - and yet it's never been easier to feel cut off from what matters most.
Pilgrimage is a centuries-old answer to exactly this feeling. These journeys of intention, part of Christian life from its earliest days, have always offered a chance to step away from ordinary life, seek spiritual growth, and return changed. During the Middle Ages, cathedrals became a natural destination and, with their beauty, music, and deep sense of peace, they have been welcoming pilgrims ever since.
The Cathedrals Cycle Route is this ancient tradition newly mapped and warmly supported. Chaucer's pilgrims would recognise the impulse, if not the bike! The relaxed, flexible nature of the route, with its welcoming community, means your pilgrimage can take whatever shape suits you - perfect for modern life.
Medieval pilgrims often marked the completion of their journey with a badge. Today, you can collect a stamp at each cathedral using your Pilgrim Passport, available from individual cathedral shops or directly from the Association of English Cathedrals. When you've gathered all forty-two, contact us to claim your Finisher's Medal.
If you'd like to extend your pilgrimage beyond the route, the British Pilgrimage Trust also offers extensive information, guidance and a Pilgrim Passport covering a wider range of sacred sites across the country.
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Use the Cycling UK website to choose one or more of the forty two Cycle Route sections, each one carrying you from one cathedral to the next. Every section is a complete journey in itself, with a meaningful destination waiting at the end.
Use the Association of English Cathedrals website to check opening hours, facilities and ‘What’s On’ at each cathedral to make the most of your visit
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There is no right or wrong way to do this; pilgrimage is a deeply personal experience. You can set off just as you are and see what emerges, or browse the resources available to inspire and support you.
Find out about cathedrals and pilgrimage
The Association of English Cathedrals provides a rich source of information about cathedrals and pilgrimage.
The British Pilgrimage Trust offers information and guidance, and its own Pilgrim Passport, for a wider range of sacred sites.
Purchase your Pilgrim Passport
A Pilgrim Passport connects you to the rich history of pilgrimage, allowing you to reflect on your spiritual or personal quest by collecting a sticker or stamp at each cathedral you visit. Collect all forty-two and you are entitled to purchase a Finisher’s Medal.
Purchase your passport from individual cathedral shops, or online from the Association of English Cathedrals. -
QUICK START: Ready to get on your bike? Simply download the GPX file for the section you’ve chosen from the Cycling UKwebsite, and your planning is done.
PERSONALISED PLANNING: The Cathedrals Cycle Route is not a waymarked route and you are free to plan your own way between cathedrals, taking in the types of terrain that you prefer and landmarks that you want to see along the way. Use the ‘Plan New Route’ section of Komoot to type in your start and end points and add in any places of interest or particular areas that you want to explore - it’s really easy to do and makes for a travel plan that you know you are going to enjoy.
You can print your personalised map out, download a GPX file, or download your route to your mobile phone, smartwatch, or bike computer and navigate on the go.
You can also use the ‘Find A Route’ section Walk Wheel Cycle Trust website (previously known as Sustrans) to find parts of the National Cycle Network that you may like to use. -
Before you roll out, make sure both you and your bike are ready for the journey.
Visit the Cycling UK website for information about all aspects of cycling, including choosing a bike and equipment, bike maintenance, advice on tackling different types of terrain and different seasons, plus safety and legal advice. You’ll also find expert Questions and Answers to make sure you are totally clued up before you set out.
Essentials for Your Bike
Full service or safety check before you leave
Lights and reflectors for visibility
Repair kit with spare tubes, tyre levers, multi-tool, and pump
Lock for cathedral visits and overnight stops
Essentials for You
Layered clothing and waterproof outerwear
Cycling gloves, sunscreen, and basic first aid items
Refillable water bottles or hydration pack
Snacks or energy bars for longer rural stretches
Phone mount or GPS device for Komoot navigation
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You are never alone on the Cathedrals Cycle Route. As well as a wonderful opportunity to meet other cyclists in real life, there are thriving online communities where riders gather to share ideas.
Experienced route cyclists can give all sorts of useful information and insider knowledge about the route before you set off. You are extremely welcome to the Cycle Route family and we look forward to hearing from you.
Join the Cycling UK online community and search for Cathedrals Cycle Route to see questions and answers about the route and meet other riders
Use Strava to join the Cathedrals Cycle Route group, find local cycling clubs, and join a group to journey with
Visit our Facebook page for news and ideas and connect with other riders
The route is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness or funds for a good cause. This is the time to reach out and let organisations, the media and the public know that you are pedalling with a purpose.
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Each new journey adds a chapter to the living story of the route. Make sure your part of the story is recorded: use Strava to share your times, distances and maps, or upload photos and videos to show useful information about the route for others to use.
Who knows: you may inspire someone else to start their own adventure.
‘Then worketh Nature in their hearts, Then folk do long to go, do long to go on pilgrimage…’
George Dyson - The Canterbury Pilgrims
Remember that The CCR is a self-guided route and riders are responsible for their own planning, preparation, and safety at all times.
The route creators and partner organisations accept no liability for any loss, injury, damage, or inconvenience that may occur before, during, or after your ride. Please ensure your bike is roadworthy, you are adequately equipped, and you follow all relevant road safety laws and local guidance.
Words for the Way
Pause for a moment to reflect on these beautiful prayers, with words of thanksgiving and for safe travels, written for pilgrims on the Cathedrals Cycle Route by Clare Maclaren, Canon Provost of Sunderland Minster.
Where can I stay along the way?
For riders who want to travel light and keep costs down, hostels and bunkhouses are an ideal option along the route. The Independent Hostel Guide has put together a dedicated page listing accommodation options close to the Cathedrals Cycle Route: a practical, no-fuss resource for planning overnight stops.