The Boxing Day Pilgrimage from Ripon Cathedral to Fountains Abbey is an annual tradition for many across the diocese and beyond, attracting upwards of 1500 ‘pilgrims’ to walk off their Christmas dinner across four miles of stunning scenery.
Last year, however, the torrential rain and flooding of Boxing Day caused the walk to be cancelled for the first time since the tradition was revived in the 1980s.
This year the walk is back on and will be led for the last time by Bishop James Bell, the Bishop of Ripon, who retires next April, along with the Dean of Ripon Very Revd John Dobson.
Bishop James says he hopes many who were disappointed last year will take part this year. "Over the last few months I've run into any number of people who've said they are looking forward to joining me for the Boxing Day, especially after the disappointment of last year's cancellation.
“ I am very much looking forward to joining them and many others to celebrate our cultural heritage as we remember those monks who, having spent Christmas at Ripon, made their way in 1132AD along the Skell to found what became the great Fountains Abbey. Ripon has a very good special place in my heart, and it will be brilliant to join in this most Ripon of activities!"
Two years ago an estimated 1500 pilgrims from across the diocese and region took part in Boxing Day Pilgrimage as it was led for the first time by Bishop James and the new Dean of Ripon, (pictured left) the Very Revd John Dobson.
This year, after a short service of Holy Communion at 9.30am in the Cathedral, the walk sets out at approximately 10.15am. It follows in the footsteps of a group of Cistercian monks who set out the day after Christmas, 1132 AD to found a new Cistercian monastery at Fountains on the banks of the River Skell.
The route leads out of the city along the River Skell out , through the Studley Royal Deer Park and on to the National Trust site at Fountains Abbey. It crosses fields, passes grazing deer and winds through woods and landscaped water gardens. Hundreds more swell the numbers as the walkers enter the National Trust grounds and all pack into the cellarium of the ancient monastery where mulled wine is served and a service of carols takes place.
The walk and entrance to Fountains Abbey is free to pilgrims and all are welcome to join in.