Walking Week: Pilgrim Paths

Tuesday 5th - Monday 11th May 2026

Space is available on this event!

Othona warden Tony Jaques has been exploring the footpaths of Dorset for over 30 years. He'll be choosing four varied routes through our fabulous countryside. As a connecting theme, each day's walk will have an aspect of pilgrimage, visiting one or more sites of sacred significance, whether to our ancient forebears or from more recent time. (Though any walk, with suitable awareness, can become a pilgrimage!) 

There will be one 'rest day' when any exercise will be on your own initiative. Each walk morning we take packed lunches and head out to explore the treasury of Dorset footpaths, some coastal, some inland. There'll be local history, flora and fauna - bluebell woods for sure - and even the odd teashop to enliven our routes.

The paths we follow are seriously rustic and in Dorset there are always likely to be some hills. But if you are up for that mixture, come along and try this ever-popular week. 

The aim for each day's outing is to encounter beauty, to build community among the group, and to deepen our spiritual connection to the natural world.

The price quoted includes accommodation and all meals - except one day when group members can buy a good pub lunch. If numbers are sufficient we plan to use Dorset Community Transport minibuses at the start and finish of each day's walk. This will add an extra cost of approximately £50 per person for the entire week, payable at the time. (Otherwise we share cars and you are asked to contribute to the individual drivers' costs.)

No walk is obligatory. (Also, if you have a non-walking partner who books to share your room, they are welcome to entertain themselves at Othona while you stretch your legs with the rest of us.)

Tony says: "I don't like to specify the mileage of our walks, as it can be misleading. Think of it like this. We are likely to be mainly on our feet from about 11.00 each day to some time around 4.00. But this includes stops for views, curiosities, nature observation, anecdotes, reflections and to access our water bottles! And a longer lunch break. A group always moves more slowly than a lone walker."

Fee Types

You are genuinely welcome to choose whichever rate suits you

(Learn more about our Pricing Policy & Bursaries)

Special deal: a second person sharing your bedroom can come for half price

A few non-resident places may be offered at £232 each (including lunches and suppers) but only after 1st March

Arrival + Departure Times

(Learn about Arrival+Departure)