Somerset Day on the Levels - Pilgrimage Walk

Celebrating King Alfred’s time in Somerset during 878AD, including Athelney marsh fort and the baptism of Guthrum at Aller church

A six mile gentle walk in the footsteps of King Alfred from St Andrew’s Church at Aller where the defeated Guthrum was baptised to St Bartholomew’s Church at the fortified burh town of East Lyng, taking in the nature and wildlife along the Rivers Sowy and Parrett, St Michael’s Church at Burrow Mump and views over the Levels, with exclusive permission from the landowner to walk across the Isle of Athelney from the Abbey founded by Alfred to the marsh fort where Alfred hid from Guthrum and planned his victory over the Danish Viking army.

Aller church will open at 9:30am serving breakfast buns and hot drinks, large parking area adjacent to church. There will be a short briefing for pilgrims with free walking along the signed route. A light lunch and refreshments will be available at St Michael's Church at Burrowbridge and afternoon tea at St Bartholomew's at East Lyng whilst awaiting return transport.

Fee and donations for refreshments will contribute to the preservation of churches for future generations.

Whilst we wish to ensure we can welcome all, our pilgrimages do require some walking experience. Before booking please be sure you’re able to walk for at least 6 miles at a reasonable pace, in varying weather conditions and across a range of different terrain. We try to ensure there is at least one drop out point during the walk with links to public transport but this is not always possible.

The walk is unfortunately not suitable for wheelchair users and those unable to climb Burrow Mump are welcome to miss out this section and spend time in St Michael's church where refreshments will be available.

Ticket price does not include refreshments or travel.