Our group of pilgrim walkers undertook the newly opened St Cuthbert Mayne Way from Plymouth Cathedral to our National Shrine Church of St Cuthbert Mayne. The walk was undertaken in stages spanning three days over separate weeks, a total of 35.7 miles.

Day One: Plymouth Cathedral to Calstock 13.9 miles

The day began with Mass followed by a blessing for the pilgrims by Father John. Walking through Plymouth the route led us to the Catholic Church of Our Most Holy Redeemer Church, Keyham, originally built as an onshore church for Royal Naval Personnel. We were graciously welcomed by Charles and after time for prayer and reflection we enjoyed refreshments before continuing to the Catholic Church of St Paul in St Budeaux. In St Paul’s, Martin our host, informed us that the interior is said to be inspired by the Basilica of St Paul, Outside the Walls in Rome.

Tamerton Foliot was our next destination. Despite a torrential downpour our spirits remained high, and we soon reached breathtaking countryside whilst enroute to Lopwell Dam on the River Tavy. This stage of the walk was time critical as the crossing was dictated by tide times. We really were connecting with nature, the environment, and its beauty. Lopwell Dam was where we took a short break before starting the long climb towards Bere Alston, where it was necessary to catch the train to Calstock, the final leg of Day 1. 

Day Two: Calstock to Milton Abbot 10.9 miles

Today the weather was kinder to us however we knew that there would be a lot of climbs ahead. Leaving Calstock, we had a steady rise to the Anglican Church of St Andrew. The church stands within a recently discovered Roman fort. By chance the church was just being opened as we arrived which gave us the opportunity to spend time there. It is a beautiful church designated a Celtic quiet place. Next stop was the Tamar Valley Garden Nursery, having contacted them the day beforehand they made us most welcome and we enjoyed coffee and cake.

Continuing, the route took us along the banks of the River Tamar to Gunnislake. This was a particularly scenic section giving us time to reflect on the beauty of our surroundings. After crossing New Bridge we experienced a sharp ascent to Latchley, from there onwards to Horsebridge. After refuelling we set off on the final climb for Milton Abbot, ending the day visiting the Anglican Church of Saint’s Constantine and Aegidius.

Day Three: Milton Abbot to the National Shrine of St Cuthbert Mayne 9.9 miles

The final leg took us predominantly along quiet lanes. Leaving Milton Abbot, we walked down to Greystone Bridge crossing the River Tamar into Cornwall. Skirting around Greystone Quarry we passed Kellisryn Halt en route to Lawhitton, passing the Anglican Church of St Michael. From there we climbed to Treniffle, over the A30 towards Launceston Rugby Club. Launceston came into view with the Castle dominating the skyline. Arriving in the Town Square we viewed the paving stone marking the site of the execution of Cuthbert Mayne in 1577. Progressing through the Castle grounds we passed the dungeon where Cuthbert Mayne was held before making our way to the Priory to cross Kensey Bridge to our pilgrim goal of St Cuthbert Mayne Church.

Our pilgrimage was now complete; it was not only a physical journey but extremely spiritual and rewarding. What an incredible experience we shared together, it was a thought-provoking pilgrimage giving us the opportunity for prayer and reflection.

John Ashdown