Way of St Augustine

'Way of St Augustine' is a new short 2-day pilgrimage route between the Shrine of St Augustine in Ramsgate and Canterbury.

The route follows in the footsteps (or the wake) of St Augustine from his landing place near Pegwell Bay in AD 597, through the East Kent countryside, to Canterbury, where he established his Cathedral, and became the first Archbishop.

The route has been developed in conjunction with Explore Kent, and the Shrine of St Augustine and the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT), all working together under the banner of the Green Pilgrimage Network Canterbury Partnership, an initiative run by the Diocese of Canterbury.

The Way of St Augustine is approximately 17 miles long, and in order to appreciate the landscape of the Stour valley, and the historic churches (and pubs) along the way, is best tackled over two days.

The Way of St Augustine can be walked in either direction

Places to visit on the Way of St Augustine:

• Shrine of St Augustine, Ramsgate – built by Augustus Pugin in celebration of St Augustine
• St Augustine’s Cross – near Cliffsend (English Heritage, free)
• Minster Abbey – the chapel is always open, and it is possible to book tours in advance
• St Mary’s Church, Minster – an imposing church, once on the sea shore!
• West Stourmouth Church – book with the CCT to “champ”
• Stodmarsh Church – open to pilgrims
• Fordwich Church – see the “Fordwich Stone”, believed to be part of St Augustine’s tomb
• The World Heritage Site comprising St Martin’s Church, St Augustine’s Abbey (English Heritage), and Canterbury Cathedral.
• Eastbridge Hospital, Canterbury – medieval pilgrim accommodation