Supporting the Muslim Hikers along the North Downs Way, Wye to Canterbury, Sat 16th August 2025

View of a long line of walkers, heading away from camera in single file, crossing a field of corn stubble towards woodland.

Kent CRP regularly works in collaboration with Kent Downs National Lanscape’s ‘Putting Down Routes’ project, to bring under-represented groups into the Kent Downs, grow sustainable tourism to the area, and extend the typical summer tourist season to all year round by bringing participants in by train.

 

Kent Downs put out a call for volunteer North Downs Way Ambassadors to support a 10 mile pilgrimage from Wye railway station to Canterbury Cathedral for members of ‘Muslim Hikers’.

 

We rely on the support of Kent Downs and volunteers North Downs Way Ambassadors to run our own led walks, Therese chose to use her Sustrans staff volunteer day to help them out.

Two carved pilgrim figures on a neat green lawn in front of a trimmed hedge. Stone depicting a pilgrim with staff and backpack, Via Francigena, Canterbury - Rome. A large group of walkers, three or four abreast, head along a path away from camera. There is an orchard to one side, with rough ground, dead tress and a large white box to the other.

130 people signed up to attend and on the day 101 hikers arrived, making this the largest group we’ve ever supported.

The route was mostly walked in a comfortable temperature averaging around 25º if not a little overcast. The 101 walkers and support team began the route with scenic views from the start, and many striking views were seen throughout the day. There was a steady climb prior to the lunch break and prayers at the historic and impressive Chilham Church. 

 

Many inspiring sweeping vistas of the Downs were seen along the trail as well as the very welcome shady wooded stretches.  On arrival at our destination of Canterbury Cathedral we were warmly received by Reverend Dr William Adam, the Archdeacon who made a welcome speech which was followed by the presentation of a pilgrim’s certificate to the group.

 

The majority of hikers travelled from London by train, some travelling by ‘car sharing’ to save on costs, the flexibility of times and ability to stop off during their journeys.  Those who parked their cars in Wye travelled from Canterbury back to Wye by train.

Sarah Moon and Therese Hammond pose with a Pilgrimage certificate. Canterbury Cathedral is in the background.

The majority of hikers travelled from London by train, some travelling by ‘car sharing’ to save on costs, the flexibility of times and ability to stop off during their journeys.  Those who parked their cars in Wye travelled from Canterbury back to Wye by train.

 

All said they enjoyed the trail and would like to walk many of the various parts of the whole 153 mile National Trail in the future.

 

Quotes from participants:

“It’s truly stunning here.”

“I didn’t know this (the trail) was so close to London.”

“I’m so proud I’ve achieved this.”

“This has been a great day, so much shared and learned.”

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