Join our 2O26 Festival Pilgrimage
The journey is part of the gathering
For thousands of years, people have journeyed on foot to places of gathering, celebration and ceremony. Long before festivals became destinations, they were pilgrimages, where the journey itself held as much meaning as the arrival.
This year, we invite you to rediscover that tradition.
Whether you choose a gentle walk from Aldermaston Wharf, a longer journey from Theale, or a full day’s pilgrimage from Reading, travelling on foot offers a different way to arrive. It is an invitation to slow down, set an intention, and let every step become part of the gathering – preparing the heart before you arrive and gently weaving the experience into everyday life as you return home.
Created in collaboration with pilgrimage guide William Parsons, each route follows ancient pathways, waterways and quiet countryside, weaving together local history, folklore and the living landscape to invite a deeper sense of presence before you even reach the festival.
Choose Your Pilgrimage
All three pilgrimage routes begin from nearby train stations, allowing you to travel by rail before continuing your journey on foot. Simply arrive by train, begin walking whenever you’re ready, and follow the route at your own pace.
ALDERMASTON WHARF → MEDICINE
2.75 miles • approximately 1–1.5 hours
A gentle introduction to festival pilgrimage through peaceful waterways, ancient trees and quiet countryside.
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THEALE → MEDICINE
6.8 miles • approximately 3–4 hours
A balanced half-day journey following the River Kennet and canal towpaths before joining the final approach to Medicine.
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READING → MEDICINE
14.5 miles • approximately 7–8 hours
Our longest pilgrimage begins at the sacred confluence of the Rivers Thames and Kennet before gradually leaving the city behind to journey through rivers, woodland and countryside towards Medicine.
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THE RETURN JOURNEY
The oldest tradition of pilgrimage is the journey home.
On Monday morning, we’ll gather for a shared community pilgrimage departing from Medicine. You’re warmly invited to join us for all or part of the return journey.
Walk together as far as Aldermaston Wharf, continue onwards to Theale, or complete the full pilgrimage to the sacred confluence of the Rivers Thames and Kennet in Reading.
Walking home offers space to reflect, integrate your experience, and carry the spirit of Medicine gently back into everyday life.
About The Routes
The Medicine Festival pilgrimage routes were created by William Parsons (@WillWalking), a pilgrimage guide with more than twenty years’ experience rediscovering Britain’s ancient walking traditions.
William is the co-founder of the British Pilgrimage Trust and has spent decades researching and leading journeys that reconnect people with landscape, story and place. These routes have been carefully walked, mapped and curated to offer a meaningful way of arriving at Medicine.
Interactive Site Map
Explore all three pilgrimage routes below before choosing the journey that’s right for you.
Download the Pilgrimage Guide
Our Complete Pilgrimage Guide includes:
- Detailed route maps
- GPX files for navigation
- Printable route guides
- Practical walking advice
- Points of interest along each journey
- Guidance for the return pilgrimage
How to Use a GPX file
for navigating pilgrimage
GPX is the standard digital format for routes. It works across all different software, a universal standard like mp3 for music, or usb for wires.
A GPX file gives you a line on a map, made from a series of connected waypoints.
When you load a GPX file onto a mapping app, it overlays these waypoints onto the maps your phone has stored, so you can view the route and follow it.
Guidance For Your Pilgrimage
BEGIN WITH INTENTION
Pilgrimage is more than simply walking from one place to another.
Before you set out, take a moment to pause.
Ask yourself:
* What am I walking towards?
* What am I ready to leave behind?
* What healing, connection or insight am I seeking?
There is no right answer. Simply beginning with an intention can transform a walk into a pilgrimage. As each step unfolds, allow the landscape, the conversations, the silence and the unexpected moments to become part of your journey.
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WALKING WELL
Pilgrimage asks us to travel differently. As you journey, we invite you to:
* Walk at your own pace.
* Leave the path better than you found it.
* Respect the land, wildlife and local communities.
* Greet those you meet along the way.
* Notice what draws your attention.
* Rest often and allow space for stillness.
* Carry only what you need.
Every step is also an act of reciprocity. Choosing to walk reduces our environmental impact while reconnecting us with one of humanity’s oldest ways of travelling and gathering together.
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BEFORE YOU SET OUT
We recommend that you:
* Wear comfortable footwear suitable for mixed terrain.
* Carry plenty of water and snacks.
* Download your chosen route before you begin.
* Bring a fully charged phone and, if possible, a portable battery pack.
* Dress for the weather – the British summer can be beautifully unpredictable.
* Allow plenty of time and avoid rushing.
Remember, the journey itself is part of the experience.
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FAQ’S
Do I need to book onto the pilgrimage?
No. Simply download your chosen route and begin your walk whenever your train arrives.
Can I walk with friends?
Absolutely. Pilgrimage can be enjoyed alone, with friends or alongside people you meet along the way.
Do I need a navigation app?
We recommend downloading the GPX file included in the Pilgrimage Guide. Printable maps are also available.
Can I join the return pilgrimage on Monday?
Yes. Everyone is welcome to join the community walk back from Medicine, whether for a short section or the full journey to Reading.
Is there somewhere to leave luggage?
If you’re carrying camping equipment, we recommend packing as lightly as possible. If you’re travelling with friends arriving by car, consider asking them to bring your heavier gear so you can enjoy the walk with a lighter pack.
