St Bega's
Way
FOR those who think that the Cross-England Walk is too strenuous and other long
distance walks are simply too long, help is at hand. What is described as a
short long-distance walk has been suggested and an extremely clear and attractive
booklet has been published, not only to explain the route but to give comments
on what can be seen on the way.
St Bega's Way has been written by Rosalinde Downing and contains many attractive
sketches, with more than a hint of Wainwright about them, by Alistair Brewis.
The walk will take you from the ancient Priory at St Bees to the preNorman church
of St Bega's at Bassenthwaite.
St Bega's Way follows in some of Wainwright's footsteps taking the easier route
from St Bees to Ennerdale, then up the Ennerdale valley crossing into Borrowdale
and on to St Bega's Bassenthwaite via Derwentwater. This is a three day walk,
a mere 36 miles, from rural West Cumbria through to one of the most delightful
parts of the Lake District. On the way you can find out about the legend of
St Bega, both churches are dedicated to the saint, and learn about amongst many
other things, the origin of the word Kangol, the curious inscription on the
bell of St Mary's Church at Ennerdale and where to look out for two large wooden
hands.
This walk would be an excellent way to spend a long weekend giving you a chance
to forget some problems and lose a pound or two. As it says in the introduction
of the booklet "Time to think, away from the commitments of home and work,
surroundings of outstanding natural beauty, and locations of deep spiritual
significance, all give tourists and especially walkers, the opportunity to become
pilgrims ....... Whether seeking or committed to the Christian or another faith
or none, it is still likely that you will get more out of this walk than mere
healthy exercise. The long histories of the churches and the development of
their architecture may interest or inspire you. The charm and romance of St
Bega's story may delight you. The glories of the natural world will undoubtedly
lift your spirits whether you see them bathed in sunshine or battle through
them against the elements. I hope too that when you reach the end of your journey
you will be thrilled by the unique and dramatic setting of St Bega's at Bassenthwaite".
The booklet is published by the Credo Appeal Committee Bassenthwaite PCC and
costs £4.50 including postage. Available from Ros Downing, Langside, Bassenthwaite
CA12 4QH.
The website www.stbegasway.co.uk will
give further details.
Reviewed by Chris Robson.