The Delight of Diversions

From time to time we receive accounts from TSW walkers of their experience of walking the route, here is a super account from Debbie:​

The Two Saints Way was my first pilgrimage, travelling from Chester to Lichfield during the summer three years ago.  I was walking alone and carrying my own kit, and hadn't done any walking distances above 10 miles before, so I needed a route that would be gentle and accessible for a beginner so this route was perfect. 
Taking the route over seven days gave a good pace and enough time to stop and have times of pause and ponder at the beauty and changing landscapes; from canals to river valleys, from arable to allotment, from urban to the wide open spaces of outstanding natural beauty of Cannock Chase and from the simplicity and the small to the grandeur of Minsters, Cathedrals and Estate gardens. Such a rich tapestry all linked and woven through by the pathway of St Chad and St Werburgh
 
At times you are asked to take what seems to be a diversion from the straight pathway and I was tempted just to go the direct route to save on miles and time but there was something quite alluring to step off the well trod path and explore the more unusual - I'm so glad I did - discovering urban allotments bursting with fruits left for hungry folks to pick up and savour,  commanding castles and leaning towers, powerful and vibrant street art and ancient moss beds home to the rare and the usually hidden species of plant and wildlife. These "diversions" were a surprise and a delight to experience.
 
I also enjoyed the historical richness of the Two Saints Way, with bite-sized information and illustrations in the guidebook, giving more depth to an already generous walk
 
Such was the experience of this pilgrimage, supported by the excellent guide book, the route available on the OSMaps app and clear path signage that it encouraged me to continue journeying each year and I am now planning my fourth pilgrimage. Thank you to all who have made the Two Saints Way possible, it has been the start of something quite glorious for me.

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