Winchester Pilgrimage

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The Shire of West Dragoningshire invites all lords, barons, knights, squires, along with their ladies and all other gentles of any station to join them in the Winchester Pilgrimage, 12-14 May 2006.

Nestled in the water meadows alongside the River Itchen, in the shadow of St Catherine's Hill and only 20 minutes walk from the centre of Winchester, lies the medieval buildings of the Hospital of St Cross & Almshouse of Noble Poverty.

These medieval buildings are the setting for the Winchester Pilgrimage as we make our pilgrimage along the water meadows to Winchester Cathedral testing our knowledge of medieval saints, symbols, and other aspects of medieval Christianity before ending the day with magnificent tournaments and a pilgrim's meal.

Take a step back in history as you wander around the buildings that have provided food and shelter for hundreds of years and learn about various aspects of making a medieval pilgrimage. Rest for a while in the unique and peaceful Master's Garden or visit the 12th century church. During the pilgrimage you may meet one of the resident Brothers, in his black or red gown and trencher hat, on his way to Matins or a meal - traditions that go back hundreds of years.

Be advised that the "Winchester Pilgrimage" event is an exercise in exploring the mediaeval concept of pilgrimage and therefore will have strong Christian themes and religious content as an inherent part of the event. Please bear this in mind when deciding whether to attend.

The Hospital of St Cross is still an active community and several of the Brothers may be attending the event.

The site is the Hospital of St Cross, St Cross Road, Winchester SO23 9SD, England.