Walk with the River-Wife: River Avon pilgrimage with Meg Avon

Following the River Flow: A Pilgrimage with Meg Avon, Britain's First River Wife

Join Meg Avon, the UK's first River Wife, for a unique pilgrimage following the mysterious waters of the Malago, a tributary of the Avon that flows from a sacred spring. Journey from the heart of Bristol to the source beneath the sacred heights of Dundry Hill.

This is a pilgrimage of flowing water, hidden rivers, ancient springs, and deep listening. Together we will explore the spiritual significance of rivers as living companions, tracing the thread of water through city streets, parks, woodland and meadow, discovering how a river can guide both our feet and our hearts.

Our journey begins where the Malago disappears beneath the city, just outside Bedminster railway station. From there we will walk through Meg's neighbourhood, following the river's course upstream as it winds through the green spaces of South Bristol. Along the way we may be greeted by the resident egret, often seen standing silently among the willows, a white guardian of the waters.

In Manor Valley Woods we will pause at a hidden orchard where apple and pear trees show signs of new fruit. Here we will gather around a beloved May Tree, tying blessings among its branches before continuing across meadow and through ancient woodland.

As we trace the Malago as closely as possible through Bishopsworth and Withywood, we will reflect on the ways rivers shape both landscape and community. A welcome tea and comfort break at The Daily Grind Café offers a chance to rest and share stories before the climb begins.

Refreshed, we will leave the city behind and ascend Dundry Hill, following the water towards its source. At the spring we will create a simple offering, leaving stones and small decorative gifts beside the flowing water. Meg will share poems inspired by the Avon and the sacred nature of rivers, and pilgrims are warmly invited to bring poems, songs or reflections of their own to contribute.

From the spring we continue up the steep stone steps to St Michael's Church with its rare Dole Table, the high point and end of the pilgrimage. Here, with Bristol spread out below, we will pause to appreciate the remarkable journey we have made—from hidden river to open sky, from city streets to sacred spring.

About your Guide

In 2023, Meg Trump was worried about pollution of her local River Avon. She decided to turn her concern into art by marrying the entity she loved through hosting a public wedding to the river. During the ceremony she vowed to protect her beloved and encouraged all participants to do the same. This powerful act of love and protest captivated hearts and minds, and it was a start of Meg’s journey as an imagination activist...read more.

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Travel arrangements - Nearest train stations are: Bedminster. Bus routes here.  There is limited pay and display parking at Hereford Street and the train station. At the end pilgrims may return to Bristol via the A1 bus, or those wishing to continue may join Meg for an informal walk back down to Bedminster (approximately 2.5 hours).

Toilet Facilities - There toilets at the middle and end of this journey. Please bring anything you might need for calls of nature between these.

Who can come? Anyone over 18 (or under 18 with parental guidance, bearing in mind the walking distance).

Is this religious? This is a faith-neutral pilgrimage including a variety of traditions and practices. We operate a “Bring Your Own Beliefs” policy, where pilgrims can choose when to engage and participate. We ask that all pilgrims respect one another, whatever their beliefs.

Will I be asked to share my feelings with the group? We like to keep things light and breezy, so there will be no group emotional sharing moments, even though people may be coming for emotional reasons. If you want to share your feelings in personal conversation when walking with others that is up to you, but certainly not compulsory.

Are there fitness or access limitations? This route involves steep hills, some road walking/crossings, and conditions may be muddy underfoot. Pilgrimage is moderately intense; if you find walking all day a challenge, this type of pilgrimage may be an unsuitable activity for you right now.  Unfortunately this pilgrimage is not suited for mobility-impaired people or those requiring wheeled access due to the terrain. If you have other access needs please get in touch to discuss how we can best include your individual requirements.

Can I bring my dog? Sadly not - we can’t accommodate dogs on our guided pilgrimages. However, if you have a registered assistance dog, they are welcome.

Do you offer concessions? We offer some free or discounted places to pilgrims on certain types of income-related Universal Credit, PIP, DLA ESA , JSA etc. Contact us to find out if you qualify.

What does the price cover? This pilgrimage is a fundraiser for registered charity British Pilgrimage Trust. 20% of the ticket fee is VAT. 10% of funds raised are donated to the places we visit along the route. Around 50% of your ticket covers the costs of providing the journey, including research and route surveys. Any remaining funds support our charitable work including thousands for free resources to enable people to make their own journeys. For more details about our charitable activities, please check here.

What is your refund policy? You can purchase refund protection for a small additional fee when purchasing your ticket. See our full policy on cancellations, postponements and ticket transfers here.  https://www.britishpilgrimage.org/resources/guided-pilgrimage-refund-policy

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