Faith and Footsteps: Celebrities Journey to Holy Island

Stars Seek Spirituality: A Journey Through Northumberland's Sacred Trails

"Pilgrimage: The Road to Holy Island" invites audiences into a captivating journey with a fresh lineup of celebrities who traverse the stunning wilds of North East England. As the Easter season approaches, the new series returns to BBC Two and iPlayer, featuring seven familiar faces from various backgrounds embarking on an adventurous trail that honors early Celtic Christian saints. Spanning three 60-minute episodes, this exciting eighth season presents a unique 390 km trek through the heart of Northumberland, culminating in their journey to the mystical Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

This group of celebrity pilgrims includes Ashley Banjo, the dynamic leader of the dance group Diversity and a practicing Christian; Hermione Norris, an actor known for her roles in *Spooks* and *Cold Feet*, who believes in the divine presence within all living things; Tasha Ghouri, a TV personality and self-identified atheist. Joining them are comedian Hasan Al-Habib, an observant Muslim, as well as radio presenter Jane Middlemiss, who describes herself as spiritual, and comedian Ashley Blaker, who navigates his agnostic views after being raised as an Orthodox Jew. Lastly, the group features actress Patsy Kensit, who identifies as an "à la carte" Catholic. This eclectic mix brings forth compelling conversations about faith and belief throughout their journey.

The celebration of early ecclesiastical history guides the group's adventure, starting just south of the dramatic Whitby Abbey ruins. As the celebrity pilgrims tackle a series of picturesque paths commemorating three revered 7th-century saints—Hild, Oswald, and Cuthbert—they gain insights into their own spirituality while challenging their physical limits. With their backpacks in tow, the adventurers experience an array of accommodations, from rustic wooden pods to basic bunkrooms, deepening their connection to the land.

The pilgrimage takes them along a breathtaking coastal trail, showcasing the ammonite beaches of Runswick Bay before veering inland towards Durham. Upon arrival in this historic city, the group faces the notorious "Steps of Doom", a steep and uneven staircase leading to spectacular views and their first glimpse of the UNESCO-listed Durham Cathedral. Participating in the medieval tradition of foot washing at the cathedral serves as a reflective moment, as the pilgrims visit the shrine of St. Cuthbert, deepening their historical connection and understanding of their spiritual roots.

Their journey continues towards Heavenfield, where St. Oswald’s legacy lives on, and they encounter the remnants of Housesteads Roman Fort along Hadrian's Wall. This region, rich in history and beauty, presents yet another opportunity for contemplation as they traverse the landscapes that inspired early Christianity. As they visit Newcastle's Reform Synagogue, established by families who fled the Holocaust, the travelers learn about resilience and community spirit that endures across generations. The pilgrimage also includes a stop at the "Nether Springs" retreat center, where daily life is guided by the teachings of the 7th-century saints, allowing the pilgrims to reflect on the intersection of faith and everyday life.

In their final stretch, the group embarks on St. Cuthbert’s Way, navigating the Cheviots and celebrating the life of the revered Celtic Christian monk and bishop. The terrain features Wide-Open Hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a moment for deep reflection. Their trek leads them to Cuthbert’s Cave, a shelter where monks are said to have sought refuge with Cuthbert's coffin during Viking raids, deepening their sense of history and tradition.

After 12 demanding days, the culmination of their spiritual and physical journey brings them to ‘Pilgrims’ Way,’ the historic path where countless travelers have crossed the tides to reach Lindisfarne, known as Holy Island. Each celebrity shares their motivations for undertaking this pilgrimage; for example, Ashley Banjo expresses the desire to deepen his faith through thoughtful discussions while embracing the challenge of an inspiring hike. Other pilgrims resonate with similar sentiments, voicing their hopes for personal growth, reconnection with spirituality, and insights into themselves and their beliefs through the shared experience of the pilgrimage.

Daisy Scalchi, BBC's Head of Religion and Ethics for television, emphasizes the power of such a journey, stating that walking alongside diverse individuals opens hearts and minds to new perspectives. Caroline Matthews, Executive Producer, adds that the series offers a special moment to explore life's significant questions while experiencing the breathtaking backdrop of North-East England. The show promises camaraderie, emotional moments, and even humor—all essential as the celebrities journey through the trials and triumphs of their epic adventure.

In an era where celebrities often find themselves in high-stakes, fast-paced environments, "Pilgrimage: The Road to Holy Island" stands out as an opportunity for them to slow down and engage with deeper questions of faith, meaning, and connection to history. The series not only captivates with visually stunning landscapes but also provides audiences with a chance to witness the transformative power of a shared quest for understanding. As viewers follow this group of diverse celebrities on their unique paths, they are reminded of the universal search for purpose and the healing power of nature and community. This engaging narrative embraces the best of both celebrity culture and the exploration of spirituality, making it a must-watch for fans eager to see not just the journey, but also the heartfelt evolution of these personalities along the way.