Custom · Bradwell-on-Sea

The Bradwell Pilgrimage

A Saxon missionary built this chapel from the stones of a Roman fort. Every summer people still walk the last mile in silence.

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Custom

The Bradwell Pilgrimage

The last mile is walked in silence.

See it clearly

What's there: Lone Saxon chapel on a Roman fort wall
Legend from: Saxon saint; living custom
Best time: Early July (pilgrimage day)
Tone: Curious

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Before you go

Pilgrims park at the Village Hall, South Street (CM0 7QJ), and walk about two miles; there are no toilets on the walk, and there is a minibus and limited parking at the chapel gate for those who need it.

Chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, Bradwell-on-Sea
Near East End Road
The pin marks the spot.
Living traditionBradwell Pilgrimage, a Saturday in early July (5 July 2025)

At the end of this track is a chapel St Cedd built around 654, and each summer pilgrims walk here in silence.

Each summer pilgrims walk out to one of the oldest churches in England. The Chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall was founded around 654 by St Cedd, a missionary from Lindisfarne, on the wall of the Roman fort of Othona. It stands alone at the edge of the Dengie marshes. The day starts with a service at St Thomas's in the village. Pilgrims then walk about two miles along East End Road and the chapel track, keeping silence for the last stretch. There is worship on the chapel field, a picnic lunch and time to explore, and the day ends with quiet reflection in the chapel. The 2025 pilgrimage took place on 5 July.

Sources

Legends nearby

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