Question 1

Where does the event take place?

Accepted Answer

The event takes place around the village of Chettle and exact directions and information on parking will be sent to all participants once tickets are purchased.

Question 2

Why is this event only for women (and those who identify as women)?

Accepted Answer

The event is designed to offer women a safe and immersive experience to face fears of walking at night. The story will explore the lives of women in the Iron Age and how the Roman invasion affected women's roles. We will also offer an opportunity to experience a Women's Circle around a fire.

Question 3

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

No, this event is designed for human participants only! This is to allow everyone to pay full attention to their surroundings and each other. Dogs can be a distraction to this.

Question 4

What age is this walk suitable for?

Accepted Answer

Based on feedback from previous participants with children, we are recommending that the walk is for girls 12+. There is some adult content in the story (reference to  rape as part of the Roman invasion) and we will be standing/walking for long periods.

Question 5

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

Wear sensible outdoor clothes, including warm layers, and hats/gloves, as we will be standing still for some of the event and using our hands, which may get cold. Pack waterproof coat/trousers in case of rain. Waterproof boots and thick socks are essential, as there are sections of wet grass and mud

Question 6

How long is the walk?

Accepted Answer

The pilgrimage route is approximately 4 miles. However, we will be walking slowly and carefully to navigate the dark ground, which will make the route feel longer and more  strenuous than it would in the daytime.  We will be standing or walking for over 3hrs throughout the night.

Question 7

What terrain will we be walking on?

Accepted Answer

The majority of the route is on public footpaths, leading gently out of Chettle valley and back again. The footpaths are well used and are a mix of chalk tracks, woodland paths and grass paths.

Question 8

How will the storytelling happen?

Accepted Answer

We will stop at regular points along the pilgrimage walk for storytelling. Participants will be standing to listen to this, or can sit on the ground if preferred. There is seating at the end of the walk (for the Women's Circle).

Question 9

What happens at the Women's Circle?

Accepted Answer

The walk will lead to a secluded woodland campfire, where a Women's Circle will be held. This is a moment for us to sit in circle together, reflect and hear from one another. There is no obligation to speak if you do not wish to, but we ask that everyone is present to listen to and honour others.

Question 10

Can I use a torch?

Accepted Answer

We request that you refrain from using torches for the duration of the walk, unless unavoidable. Please bring a red torch if you have one! Our night vision is powerful once our eyes adjust to the dark, and white torch light (even for a moment) will interfere with this night vision.

Question 11

Why is the walk in silence?

Accepted Answer

To allow all of our senses to come alive in the darkness and ensure we are paying full attention to where we are walking. There will be moments where we will need to whisper messages to each other, but for everyone's safety it is important that we are fully present to our surroundings and don't chat

Question 12

Are there toilets on the walk?

Accepted Answer

On arrival and departure, Chettle Village Hall toilets will be available for use. During the storytelling pilgrimage, there will be a point where you can head to the bushes if you need to! There are compost toilets available during the Women's Circle and fire.

Question 13

What refreshments are included and should I bring anything?

Accepted Answer

Please bring your own bottle of water for the walk. We will be serving tea (non-caffeine) and flapjacks (vegan) at 9.30pm when we sit around the fire for the Women's Circle. Feel free to also bring any of your own refreshments for this part of the evening, but we ask that drinks are non-alcoholic.

Question 14

I'm scared of the dark, is this event for me?!

Accepted Answer

Yes! This event will take you out of your comfort zone, but we will guide you. We will be teaching ways of walking that help navigate uneven ground in the dark. We will be walking in a formation that allows you to relax into it. The company of the other women and the story telling will support you.

Question 15

I'd like to come on my own, but I'm nervous...!

Accepted Answer

This experience actually works very well if you come on your own, as you are fully able to immerse yourself in your surroundings, the story and the darkness. Lots of other women have come on their own and found it to be a very nourising and transformative evening of self reflection and presence.

Question 16

What happens if there is bad weather?

Accepted Answer

This is an outdoor event and so will be postponed if the weather is going to impede the quality of the experience, or in the case of extreme/unsafe weather. We will inform you of any postponements by 2pm on the day of the event, via email.

Question 17

Do you offer any concessions for those who can't afford this ticket price?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please click on the 'Contact the Organiser' link if you would like to request a place at a lower cost.

Question 18

Who is running this event?

Accepted Answer

Becky Burchell is leading the events, and has written the story and developed the event format. Becky is a creator of festivals, films, plays, women’s circles, community gatherings, rituals and stories. She is supported on the walks by members of Chettle Women's Circle who are stewarding.

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