New Pilgrims' Way launch in 2020
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The Northern Pilgrims’ Way Group held its first AGM at St Vincent’s Church Hall, on Thursday, September 26.
The group was formed in April with the aim of re-establishing the ancient pilgrimage way between St Duthac’s Church in Tain and St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall.
This route dates back to the 12th century and was probably at its peak of popularity in the 15th century.
Over the summer, the group, chaired by Cllr Karl Rosie, has liaised with other groups and with landowners to work out a route.
The criteria followed was that is had to be historically accurate, safe and not disruptive of other countryside activities.
Instead of one definitive path, members have laid out what is known as a ‘braided route’ – one with several options.
It was felt this was the best way forward to suit the various aims and abilities of the walker.
The route drawn out for the Pilgrim’s Way shares the John O’Groats Trail from Tain to Helmsdale.
From here the route forks, with one branch continuing along the coast.
It is acknowledged that there is still work to be done on the Ousdale section of the John O’Groats Trail to make it safer.
The other branch goes up Strath Halladale to Forsinard, Altnabreac, Loch More and Spittal.
Originally, most travellers on the Pilgrim’s Way would have left the Strath at Kilphedar and crossed between Morven and Scaraben to Braemore.
However group members recognised that this route was unmarked and went through some boggy ground.
In addition, it has the complication of being part of the Langwell and Dunbeath sporting estates.
The group is still debating over whether or not to include it as an official braid of the Pilgrim’s Way.
Braemore can also be accessed by road from Dunbeath.
Once at Spittal, the traveller can head for any of the three ferries to Orkney.
A Pilgrim’s Way spokesman said: “All these alternative routes were used by the early travellers and there are traces of chapels, graveyards and holy wells at various points on the routes. “
Meanwhile, the Episcopal Church has declared 2021 as the Year of the Pilgrim.
In recognition of this, the Northern Pilgrims’ Way group hope to launch their pilgrimage route during that year.
The spokesman said: “There is much work to be done before the launch.
“We will need to produce leaflets and booklets detailing the routes
“We are also planning pilgrimage passports and certificates, a website and, most important
“Most important and difficult of all will be to make sure that the route is well signposted.
Anyone interested in helping with this project, or would just like more information, contact the Northern Pilgrims’ Way Group at :northernsaints@yahoo.com .
