The North Wales Pilgrims Way: A Short Camino from Basingwerk Abbey to Bardsey Island One

The North Wales Pilgrims Way is a short pilgrimage route starting at Basingwerk Abbey near the River Dee and finishing at Bardsey Island. Lucy and Martyn walked approximately 216 kilometres (134 miles) in Autumn 2017 (the full length of the trail). This book gives an account of their walk. Lucy provides some practical information about what to pack and where to stay. The conditions underfoot were very wet causing them to opt for some walking on minor roads at times instead of through fields. They obtained stamps for their Pilgrim Passport at some of the many beautiful churches on route. They were impressed with the hospitality they received along the way and the supportive attitude of residents en route in the villages and the churches. They embraced the simple lifestyle of the pilgrim, having little to think about except how to find the way, what to eat, where to sleep and how to keep themselves and their clothes clean. Navigation was somewhat challenging at times even with a good guide book, maps and a compass. Lucy was fortunate that Martyn had previously been a walking leader and was experienced at finding the way. Lucy talks about some differences between this short camino in Wales and longer caminos that she and Martyn had walked abroad. They felt relaxed by the time they reached Bardsey Island on a beautiful sunny day in October. They were told by the man who took them over to the island on his boat, that the weather was more beautiful and calm that day than any of the days in August.