Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede
Your complete guide to planning a pilgrimage on the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede
Route photograph: Wikimedia Commons
Plan your route
Click any brown pin on the map above and choose Add to your route to build your overnight stops, stage by stage.
Don't forget
A walk of this length (104 miles) is a real undertaking. Here is what you will need to stay safe and comfortable on the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede.
Physical preparation
- Build up to the daily mileage in the weeks before — walk in the boots you will wear on the trail.
- Break in your boots thoroughly to avoid blisters; carry plasters and moleskin.
- Pace yourself — start each stage slowly and take short, regular rests.
Clothing & footwear
- Sturdy, waterproof walking boots with good ankle support.
- Moisture-wicking layers — a base layer, fleece, and a waterproof jacket.
- A hat and gloves even in summer — UK hill weather can change quickly.
In your day pack
- At least 1.5–2 litres of water per stage, plus high-energy snacks.
- A small first-aid kit, blister plasters, and any personal medication.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses — you will be exposed for hours at a time.
Navigation & safety
- Carry a printed route map and compass; do not rely solely on a phone.
- Keep your phone charged — a small power bank is worth its weight.
- Tell someone your planned route and expected arrival time each day.
Use us to plan your accommodation
Use Pilgrim Stays UK to find and book pilgrim-friendly places to stay along the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede. For everything else — detailed route maps, GPX downloads, stage-by-stage guides and a community of fellow pilgrims — head to the British Pilgrimage Trust.
About this route
The Thames Pilgrim Way is a 104-mile pilgrimage along the River Thames from Radcot to Runnymede, following the Thames Path through the Diocese of Oxford. The river Thames, flowing eastwards towards the dawn, received offerings of treasure from the ancient Celts, and today the river wends its way past cathedrals, churches and priories. The section from St Frideswide's shrine in Oxford to Reading Abbey is recognised as a Camino Ingles, part of the route to Santiago de Compostela.
The Thames Pilgrim Way is a 104-mile pilgrimage along the River Thames from Radcot in Oxfordshire to Runnymede in Surrey. The Thames Path is one of Britain's best-known footpaths, but lesser-known is that this entire landscape is a holy place. The river Thames, flowing eastwards towards the dawn, received offerings of treasure from the ancient Celts who lived by her banks, and today the river wends its way through the Diocese of Oxford, with cathedral, church and priory resting beside the waters.
In 2024, part of the Thames Path National Trail from St Frideswide's shrine in Oxford to the ruins of Reading Abbey was recognised as the latest Camino Ingles, routes that pilgrims would have walked in the UK before setting sail for the second part of their journey to reach Santiago de Compostela. Follow the Thames Path from Radcot to Runnymede, guided by your intent and the gentle sounds of Britain's holy river.
Planning a Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede pilgrimage
Planning a pilgrimage on the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede? This guide covers everything you need — when to go, how many days to allow, where to stay, how to get there and what to pack — so you can plan your Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede walk with confidence.
When to go
The best months for planning a Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede pilgrimage are May to September, when daylight hours are longest and the weather is most reliable. Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during school holidays and summer weekends when places to stay along the route fill up quickly.
How many days to allow
Most pilgrims allow 10 days to complete the 104 miles route. Plan an overnight stop at the end of each of the 10 stages, and consider adding a rest day if you are walking for more than four days. Use our Plan Your Route tool above to map out your stage-by-stage itinerary.
Booking accommodation
Use our Plan Your Route tool to browse and book pilgrim-friendly places to stay in Oxford, Abingdon, Reading, Windsor and along every stage of the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede. Add accommodation to each stage of your itinerary, then book directly through Pilgrim Stays UK for integrated listings or contact the provider for directory listings.
Getting there and back
Plan your transport to the start in Radcot and your return from Runnymede. Many pilgrims use public transport — check train and bus connections when planning your pilgrimage itinerary.
What to pack
Sturdy walking boots, waterproofs, a day pack, a water bottle, and layers for changeable British weather are essential for planning any UK pilgrimage. See our "Don't Forget" section below for a detailed packing checklist tailored to the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede.
Highlights along the way
Sacred sites, historic churches and landmarks you'll encounter on the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede.
Radcot Bridge (oldest bridge on the Thames)
Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford (St Frideswide's shrine)
Abingdon Abbey ruins
Reading Abbey ruins
Windsor Castle and St George's Chapel
Runnymede (Magna Carta memorial)
Stage-by-stage accommodation on the Thames Pilgrim Way, Radcot to Runnymede
Plan your pilgrimage night by night. Each stage below shows available accommodation at the start and end of the day's walk — click through to view stays and check availability.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Thames Pilgrim Way?
The Thames Pilgrim Way is a 104-mile pilgrimage along the River Thames from Radcot in Oxfordshire to Runnymede in Surrey. The route follows the Thames Path through the Diocese of Oxford, passing cathedrals, churches and priories that rest beside Britain's holy river.
How long is the Thames Pilgrim Way?
The Thames Pilgrim Way is 104 miles from Radcot to Runnymede. Most pilgrims walk the route in 10 days, covering roughly 10 miles a day along the Thames Path.
Where does the Thames Pilgrim Way start and end?
The route starts at Radcot in Oxfordshire and ends at Runnymede in Surrey, following the Thames Path through Oxford (Christ Church Cathedral and St Frideswide's shrine), Abingdon, Reading and the towns of the Thames Valley.
Is the Thames Pilgrim Way part of the Camino de Santiago?
Yes. In 2024, the section from St Frideswide's shrine in Oxford to the ruins of Reading Abbey was recognised as the latest Camino Ingles, routes that pilgrims would have walked in the UK before setting sail for Santiago de Compostela.
Where can I stay on the Thames Pilgrim Way?
Pilgrim Stays UK lists verified pilgrim-friendly accommodation in Oxford, Abingdon, Reading and the towns along the Thames for pilgrims walking the Thames Pilgrim Way.
How do I plan a Thames Pilgrim Way pilgrimage?
Start planning by allowing 10 days for the 104-mile walk from Radcot to Runnymede. Use our Plan Your Route tool to book pilgrim-friendly accommodation at each stage along the Thames, arrange transport to Radcot and from Runnymede, and download Thames Path route maps from the National Trail website.
When is the best time to walk the Thames Pilgrim Way?
The best months for planning a Thames Pilgrim Way pilgrimage are May to September, when the Thames Path is driest and the riverbanks are at their most beautiful. Book accommodation early for Oxford and Reading, which are popular destinations.