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Mills and Martyrs Pilgrimage, Tideswell - 9 miles, 1 day

A circular pilgrimage through the Peak District's fine limestone scenery hiding a dark history

This 9-mile circular day pilgrimage starts and ends at St John the Baptist, Tideswell — the 'Cathedral of the Peak' — looping around the four daughter churches of the Benefice.

Cathedral on the Peak – St John the Baptist Tideswell

Although it's not actually a cathedral, this lovely church is known as the "Cathedral on the Peak," due to its size and splendour. It's one of the most famous churches in Derbyshire, and a Grade II listed building. Learn more about this church here.

This route is in the heart of the Peak District. Starting from the St John the Baptist Church in Tideswell, the route circles the Benefice from the Mother Church around her four Daughter Churches. Discover the forgotten stories of these fascinating buildings, from the head of Glossop’s almost-saint to Litton Mill’s cruelly-treated orphans, who were young, poor, and to the mill owners easily replaced.

One Litton Mill apprentice, Robert Blincoe, survived to write a memoir said to have inspired Oliver Twist.

Even at the beginning in Tideswell, the chapel there pays respect to the Padley Martyrs: two local priests, Fr Nicholas Garlick and Fr Robert Ludlum, arrested on charges of being Roman Catholic, and executed in July 1588.

The route via lead mining villages, besides rivers, through limestone dales provides much historical interest but also allows for a deep connection with nature.

More Information

Join Faye Smith from Hope Walking who provides one day pilgrimages along this route (see our events page).

A shorter route without stiles is available on the GPX download as a dog-friendly route. You can see the dog friendly route as the second Google map below.

Self-guided pilgrimage leaflets, information and badges can be found at St John the Baptist Tideswell Church. The Benefice's daughter churches may not be open until services or occasional guided pilgrimages are happening.

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Discover local food

We know that pilgrims get hungry!

Once you have decided on which pilgrimage route you want to walk, we thought you might like to use our Local Food Map.

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Discover holy places, and bring your own beliefs.

Pilgrimage by foot is connected with places and landscape, and how those places make you feel. Read about holy places.

At the British Pilgrimage Trust, we believe a pilgrimage should be made on an individual’s own terms. We are founded on the principle that we can all bring our own beliefs to the journey, accessible and welcoming to all.

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