Stroud Pilgrimage
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far is it?
Approximately 13km if you stop at Slad or 17km if you walk back to Stroud.
Is there a lot of climbing?
You’re in Stroud – yes. Approximately 500m of ascent throughout the day.
Who can join the walk?
Everyone is welcome — all ages, all levels of fitness, all faith backgrounds or none. These walks are about community, connection, and enjoying the landscape together. The walk is part of the pattern of services of the Stroud Team and will be led by ministers from the team, so there will be elements of Christian liturgy and practice throughout the day.
Will the walk include any worship?
At the start of the day we will share in a simple service of Holy Communion at St Laurence’s. We may well also enjoy some hymn singing along the way.
Do I need to sign up in advance?
No, you’re welcome to join on the day. If the walk has limited capacity or specific safety considerations, we’ll make that clear in advance.
How long will the walk take?
We will leave Holy Trinity at 08.30am and will be at Slad in plenty of time for Evensong at 4pm.
What should I wear?
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots
- A waterproof layer (this is Britain, after all)
- A hat or sunscreen in warm weather
- Dress in layers — rural walks often move between shade, open fields, and breezy ridges.
What should I bring?
- Water its likely to be warm so we’d recommend 1 litre (you can refill along the way)
- Sunscreen
- Snacks and a packed lunch
- Any medication you may need
- A small rucksack
- Optional: binoculars, a notebook, a camera, or a walking stick
- Contact details for anyone you might call in the event of a problem
- We’ll bring a basic first-aid kit
What if the weather is bad?
We will walk in light rain but not in unsafe conditions. If the forecast looks severe, we’ll make a decision early and notify everyone. Safety always comes first.
Is the route accessible?
Rural paths vary. Some sections are flat and suitable for most people; others include stiles, uneven ground, or steeper climbs.
Can I bring my dog?
Friendly, well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome. Please be aware of any livestock and wildlife at all times. There may be young farm animals and highly vulnerable ground nesting birds on sections of the route.
What if I need to leave early?
The various churches are a natural point to leave a car or arrange for collection.
What if I can’t keep up?
We walk at a steady, conversational pace and take regular breaks. No one is left behind. If you’re unsure, speak to a leader beforehand — we can help you decide if the route is right for you.
Who leads the walk?
An experienced local walk leader.
Is there a cost?
No, the walk is free.
What about toilets?
The churches will be open for us to use the facilities. In Slad we will use the facilities at the Woolpack.
How do you ensure safety?
- Leaders carry first-aid kits and emergency contacts
- We risk-assess routes in advance
- We keep the group together and check in regularly
- We adapt plans if conditions change