The Wells Dragon pilgrimage is a one-day pilgrimage in search of the legendary dragon of Wells.

In the 13th Century, Bishop Jocelin rode out from Wells to slay a dragon that was terrorising local villages.

What does this really mean? What is a dragon? These apparently fictional creatures have been known throughout world cultures, with very distinct characters. In Christianity, dragons are seen to be satanic. In Chinese mythology, they represent good fortune and strength. They are associated with fire, and water, with deep buried treasure and soaring flight.

This Lammas, at the high festival of the sun halfway between Mayday and All Hallows, we make pilgrimage in search for the Wells dragon, hoping to understand better the nature of these creatures, and what remains of their presence in the land and waters of Wells - as well as in ourselves.

This is a journey via holy wells and hilltops, churches and trees. We shall drink deeply and climb highly, and end our quest back at Wells cathedral in time for Choral Evensong.

Practicalities

• Distance: 9 miles.

• Timing: 9:30am - 6:15pm

• Terrain: country lanes, footpaths, some uneven ground and occasional steep hills.

• Pace: unhurried, steady.

• What to bring: walking shoes, small daypack, water bottle, packed lunch and snacks, clothes for the day’s weather.

• Accessibility: Some sections feature stiles, rough paths and uneven ground.

• Group size: Small and intimate.

• Weather: We walk in all weather. I shall contact the group with last minute forecasts to plan accordingly.

What to expect

• We start at the Bishop’s Palace, to meet the source of Wells fame - her water .

• We walk 9 miles via ancient lanes, streams, and hidden paths between wells and springs.

• We will offer song and gifts at each holy well and temple.

• Our simple Lammas rituals will overlap with dragonlore (where possible).

• There will be plenty of time for walking in silence.

• We return to Wells for Choral Evensong, as musical balm to cloak and cleanse us from any lingering dragon darkness that we don’t wish to take home.

  What Pilgrims get

  • Expert guidance from the originator and co-founder of the British Pilgrimage Trust, a pilgrim of 22 years experience.

  • A hazel-wood pilgrim staff to take home, as well as tips on how to use it.

  • New ways to meet ancient wells, including purification technology to allow drinking deeply from these sources.

  • Entry to Wells’ Bishops Palace, and the Cathedral for Evensong.

  • Pilgrim-lore - practical, herbal and esoteric teaching about the living traditions British pilgrimage.

  • Professional photography by which to remember your pilgrimage.