Walking the Camino Inglés to Santiago:
A Centenary Celebration Pilgrimage of Faith
by Clare Rickerby and Griff Dines
As a community we are planning to celebrate the centenary of our church building in many and diverse ways; and, in passing, we have discovered that we both have long wanted to walk some of the Camino de Santiago. So the advent of the centenary has prompted us to commit to planning to walk some of the Camino, and we think it would be both appropriate and spiritual to do that with other members of St George’s.
Because the common routes are often very busy at peak times, because of our roots, and because it can be completed in a week, we’re proposing
to walk the Camino Inglés.
The Camino Inglés is one of the lesser-trodden paths to Santiago de Compostela, yet it holds a charm and significance that rivals the more popular routes. Spanning approximately 115 kilometres, this pilgrimage begins in the historic port city of Ferrol in northwestern Spain. The route was historically favoured by pilgrims from the British Isles and Scandinavia, who would arrive by sea and walk the final stretch to the shrine of St. James. Today, walking the Camino Inglés offers a unique blend of spiritual enrichment, historical intrigue, and natural beauty, making it a remarkable journey for modern pilgrims, and an appropriate one for us from St George’s.
A Path Steeped in History
Walking the Camino Inglés is like stepping back in time. The route is dotted with mediaeval churches, ancient stone bridges, and quaint villages that have welcomed pilgrims for centuries. One of the early highlights is the Monastery of San Martiño de Xuvia, an impressive example of Romanesque architecture. As the route progresses numerous historical markers that tell the stories of pilgrims’ past are encountered, creating a profound sense of
connection to those who have walked this path in centuries past.
Ábsidas do mosteiro de San Martiño de Xubia photo: José Antonio Gil Martínez
Spiritual Enrichment
The Camino Inglés, like all the Camino routes, is a spiritual journey at its core. Whether you are seeking a religious pilgrimage or a personal retreat, the path provides ample opportunities for reflection and prayer. The quietude of the Galician countryside offers a perfect backdrop for
contemplation. Many walkers find that the simple act of walking, combined with the historical and spiritual significance of the route, helps them gain clarity and insight into their lives.
Fachada del Obradoiro, Catedral de Santiago de Compostela
​At the heart of this journey is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the final destination where the remains of St. James are believed to rest. Pilgrims all speak of the sense of accomplishment and spiritual fulfilment as they walk towards the wonderful cathedral facade through the Plaza de Obradoiro and discover the last scallop shell – kilometre zero!
The botafumeiro!
There is an Anglican Chaplaincy in Santiago, which is a joint ministry of the Church of England Diocese in Europe and the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe. St. George’s is one of the lead partners in the ministry of the Camino Chaplaincy. Services are held at the Casa Anglicana (run by the Anglican Pilgrim Centre in Santiago) and at the Santa Susana Church, 5
minutes’ walk from the Cathedral, in the beautiful setting of the Alameda Park. As well as participating in the Pilgrims’ Mass, held daily at the cathedral, and with luck seeing the botafumeiro flying through the air, the plan is to have our own service at one of the two venues for Anglican services! All in all it should be a moving experience.
Natural Beauty and Tranquility
The Camino Inglés takes you through some of Galicia’s most picturesque landscapes. From the rugged coastline of Ferrol to the lush green hills and serene forests, the natural beauty along the way is breathtaking. The path will be less crowded than other Camino routes, allowing for a more peaceful and intimate experience with nature. As we walk, the rhythm of our footsteps and the beauty of the surroundings can help foster a meditative state, enhancing the spiritual aspect of the journey.
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Community and Camaraderie
One of the most cherished aspects of the Camino is the sense of community among pilgrims. On the Camino Inglés, this camaraderie is particularly strong due to the smaller number of walkers. Although we will be responsible for arranging our own accommodation, the small pensiones and family-run inns along the route provide cosy accommodations and a chance
to connect with locals and fellow travellers alike. We will share meals, stories, and encouragement. The warmth and hospitality of the local Galicians will hopefully add to the experience.
Practical Considerations
The Camino Inglés is accessible to a wide range of walkers – although we will still be covering more than 100km in a week. (100km is the minimum required to achieve the certificate of completion or “Compostela”.) The route from Ferrol can be completed in about a week, making it a feasible option for those with busy schedules. The terrain is varied but manageable, with well-marked paths and plenty of amenities along the way.
Walking the Camino to Santiago de Compostela is a journey that offers deep
spiritual rewards, historical insights, natural beauty, and a sense of community. It is a pilgrimage that nourishes the soul and leaves a lasting impact on all who undertake it. Beware, because by all accounts it can become addictive – like many do, we might even decide to extend beyond Santiago to reach the Atlantic Coast at Finisterre or Muxía. Whether you walk for faith, reflection or exercise, the Camino Inglés promises a meaningful and unforgettable experience. We are planning on doing the pilgrimage in mid-September. If you are interested in joining us, have a word with one of us after church.