As spring unfolds and summer approaches, the Jesuit Institute is preparing to host a new series of walking prayer workshops across the Eden Valley in Cumbria, as well as in Lancashire and the Pennines.

Running on selected dates in April, May, June, July, and September 2026, the workshops invite participants to encounter God through walking, guided prayer, reflection, and Christian fellowship amidst the beauty of the North West countryside.

Led by spiritual director, Sarah Young, these workshops offer an opportunity to combine time in nature with guided prayer and communal reflection. Participants can book for single dates or come along for as many workshops as they like.

More details and information on how to book can be found on the Jesuit Institute’s events page here.

Taking into account feedback from last year, this year’s programme includes walks of varying lengths — from short, accessible routes to longer walks of around 7 miles — so that people of different ages and abilities can take part. Most walks are approximately 4 miles.

The walks will appeal especially to those who live in Lancashire, Cumbria or the Pennines, as well as travellers passing through the region. The organisers encourage local and visiting walkers alike to take part.

In 2025, Sarah led a similar series in the beautiful setting of the Eden Valley, east of the M6. Reflecting on the inspiration behind the workshops, she said:

"I love this north‑west corner of England. It is from here [Cumbria] that I move out and about across the UK in the course of my work for the Jesuit Institute. On returning home, one of the ways I engage with my own life of prayer is in the beauty of the Cumbrian landscape. Having led walking retreats at St Beuno's in Wales, I decided that I would love to offer something similar on home ground."

This year, the series builds on that foundation by offering a broader range of dates and walk lengths. Whether you’re keen to deepen your prayer life, enjoy the beauty of creation, or simply encounter God in a new way, these workshops provide a welcoming space to do just that.

Sarah offers a further insight into what participants might expect:

"My hope is that each person who comes along quickly becomes part of a mini‑pilgrimage shared with others who also love the outdoors. There is time to chat and time to be silent. I hope the guided prayers offer opportunities to take stock of what is happening in your daily life, to talk to God about these things and return home refreshed. These days are offered ecumenically, and we have received a warm welcome from both the Catholic and Anglican parishes from which they start."

The guided prayers draw on the Ignatian tradition, inviting participants to encounter God who is “found in all things” and to recognise God’s presence in each step of the journey. Please share this article with those who may be interested.

Photo by Niklas Weiss on Unsplash