Two Saints Way
Two Saints Way: Complete Guide to Hiking the Historic Pilgrimage Trail in Great Britain
Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Two Saints Way, a remarkable 145-kilometer pilgrimage route winding through the heart of England from Chester to Lichfield. This historically rich trail leads you across idyllic countryside, peaceful woodlands, and tranquil canal paths, interspersed with charming rural villages and ancient cityscapes. As you follow in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims, you’ll traverse rolling fields, quiet forests, and picturesque market towns, experiencing the varied tapestry of the British landscape.
The Two Saints Way is not just a walk through nature, but a walk through time. Along the way, you’ll discover stunning cathedrals, centuries-old churches, and landmarks steeped in history. Whether you’re seeking spiritual reflection or an invigorating adventure, this moderate-distance trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and welcoming hospitality for hikers of all backgrounds.
Route Overview
The Two Saints Way is a long-distance, point-to-point trail spanning approximately 145 kilometers, beginning at Chester Cathedral in northwest England and finishing at Lichfield Cathedral in the Midlands. The official route heads southeast, passing through key towns and villages including Christleton, Beeston, Nantwich, Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, and the landscapes of Cannock Chase. Significant waypoints along the trail include Beeston Castle, Sandbach, the canal towns of Middlewich and Stone, and historic landmarks in both Stafford and Lichfield.
Most hikers complete the journey in about eight days, averaging 15–20 kilometers per day. The route follows a mix of dirt, gravel, and paved paths, traversing open countryside, ancient woodlands, agricultural lands, and occasional urban stretches. Trail surfaces and waymarking are generally reliable near major towns but may be less distinct in rural or forested areas, requiring attention to navigation, especially after inclement weather. Basic amenities, such as water sources, restrooms, and various types of accommodation, are available at regular intervals, but advance planning is advised, particularly in the quieter sections between main settlements.
Tracing the Pilgrimage: The History of Two Saints Way
The Two Saints Way retraces the footsteps of pilgrims who, from as early as the seventh century, made their way across the English countryside to venerate two prominent saints: St. Chad of Lichfield and St. Werburgh of Chester. This historic route links the cathedral cities of Chester and Lichfield, which were both important centers of early Christianity in Britain. St. Werburgh is renowned for her role in uniting Mercian monasteries, while St. Chad was the first bishop of Lichfield and played a key part in spreading Christianity throughout the region.
Throughout the Middle Ages, the path served as a bustling thoroughfare for those seeking spiritual solace or miraculous cures at the saints’ shrines. The trail passes through numerous villages and churches that hold relics to this era, transporting modern hikers to a time when pilgrimage was both a spiritual duty and a way of life for many. Notable landmarks along the route include ancient churches, holy wells, the Saxon Cross at Sandbach, and historic abbey ruins, each bearing silent witness to generations of faith and community.
Today, the Two Saints Way is a living corridor of history, enabling hikers to connect with Britain’s rich spiritual heritage while discovering scenic landscapes unchanged for centuries. The route stands as a celebration of the enduring legacy of pilgrimage and the vibrant local cultures that flourished alongside it.
Notable highlights
Chester Cathedral: This stunning Gothic cathedral marks the trail’s starting point. With its rich history, beautiful cloisters, and relics of St. Werburgh, it offers visitors a chance to reflect on centuries of pilgrimage tradition.
Beeston Castle: Perched atop a rocky crag, this English Heritage site provides panoramic views across the Cheshire Plain and is steeped in both medieval and prehistoric significance.
Nantwich: A charming market town renowned for its timber-framed buildings, heritage landmarks, and bustling local markets. Nantwich’s 14th-century St. Mary’s Church is particularly notable.
Sandbach Saxon Crosses: Located in Sandbach’s historic town square, these elaborately carved, 9th-century sandstone crosses are some of England’s finest surviving examples of Saxon stonework.
Englesea Brook Chapel & Museum: A fascinating heritage site dedicated to the Primitive Methodist movement, offering insights into social and religious reforms in 19th-century England.
Stafford Castle: Set amidst rolling parkland, the partially restored remains of Stafford Castle are a dramatic reminder of Norman and medieval history, with informative visitor displays.
Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: This vast expanse of ancient woodland and heath is teeming with wildlife, offering serene trails and inspiring natural vistas.
Lichfield Cathedral: The route ends at the three-spired Lichfield Cathedral, renowned for its ornate medieval architecture, the shrine of St. Chad, and a treasury of historical artifacts.
Tranquil Waterways and Canal Paths: Sections along the Shropshire Union and Trent & Mersey canals offer peaceful walking with opportunities to spot traditional narrowboats and abundant birdlife.
Ancient Churches and Rural Villages: Throughout the hike, you’ll encounter picturesque churches and friendly villages, each with their own unique stories and connections to England’s pilgrimage past.
Challenges to expect
While the Two Saints Way is rated as moderate, hikers should be prepared for a handful of challenges along this 145-kilometer trail. Some stretches traverse muddy fields, especially after rainfall, and can become slippery or waterlogged. Portions through woodland and rural farmland may have uneven terrain, overgrown vegetation, or rutted pathways, making sturdy, waterproof footwear essential. Long days with sustained walking between some accommodations can also test stamina, particularly in less populated areas where services are limited.
Weather is another crucial factor—rain is common in this region throughout spring, summer, and autumn. Sudden showers may be accompanied by windy conditions, so packing reliable rain gear and insulating layers is highly recommended. Occasional navigation issues can arise due to less frequent waymarking in certain countryside sections, so bringing up-to-date maps or reliable GPS navigation is important for staying on track.
In towns and cities, crossing busy roads and navigating urban environments present their own minor hazards. Planning rest stops, resupply locations, and overnight stays ahead of time will help ensure a smooth journey through both rural tranquility and busier town centers.
United Kingdom 
England - Forest
- Urban
- Dirt
- Gravel
- Paved
- Hotels
- Hostels
- Campsites
- Wild camping spots
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
Set out from the majestic Chester Cathedral, following the Two Saints Way through the historic city center before quickly transitioning into Cheshire’s quiet countryside. Pass through the attractive village of Christleton, winding along peaceful lanes, meadows, and canal towpaths. The route is largely flat, with a mix of paved and dirt surfaces, culminating in the rural cluster of Beeston, close to the striking Beeston Castle.
Leave Beeston and traverse rich Cheshire farmlands, skirting Shropshire Union Canal and crossing open fields peppered with traditional villages. Spot remnants of England’s medieval past and enjoy wide views before reaching the market town of Nantwich, famous for its black-and-white timbered buildings and the historic St. Mary’s Church.
Head out from Nantwich along flat pathways beside the River Weaver, then cross green farmland and pass through the village of Acton. Continue east via Crewe and on to Sandbach, where you’ll find the iconic Saxon crosses, ending the day in Wheelock adjacent to the Trent & Mersey Canal.
Following the Trent & Mersey Canal, make your way from Wheelock through the Cheshire countryside, passing through Middlewich and several peaceful canal-side villages. Gradually, urban features become more prominent as you enter the southern reaches of Stoke-on-Trent, finishing for the day in Wolstanton.
Departing the suburbs of Stoke-on-Trent, the path takes you through the urban and industrial heritage of this pottery region before returning to more rural surroundings. Pass through villages such as Trentham and Tittensor, then enjoy quieter lanes and woodlands as you approach the historic county town of Stafford.
Leaving Stafford, the route winds southeast through fields and small woodlands, skirting the edge of Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Enjoy gentler terrain and picturesque stretches by the River Sow, with opportunities to spot wildlife before reaching the Milford area.
Begin by entering the scenic forests and heathlands of Cannock Chase, a section renowned for its natural beauty. The route meanders through quiet glades, open heath, and ancient woodlands, crossing into the Staffordshire countryside. Finish the day in the small rural settlement of Ruckley.
On your final day, continue across mixed farmland and small villages, gradually approaching the spires of Lichfield. The trail passes tranquil waterways and parkland before concluding at the grand Lichfield Cathedral, where the shrine of St. Chad marks the end of your journey.