The Buckfast Pilgrimage 1980

Day 3: East Meon to Winchester

Although nominally the same start and finish as in 1976, we take a different route after Old Winchester Hill today.

But, as in 1976, we start with Mass at the Church of the Assumption in East Meon.

But, unlike the scorching summer of 1976, rain was threatening soon after we left East Meon.

And was clearly in evidence by the drink stop on Old Winchester Hill.

By the George and Falcon at Warnford, it was pouring, so lots of soggy pilgrims sat inside the pub rather than outside, which must have alarmed their regular (rather smart) clientele.

Not content to sit quietly, pilgrims will play games. I know it was some form of forfeit game that ended with Ant under the table...

At Beauworth we were met by the Vicar and his wife - it's still raining!

A wet afternoon brought us to Winchester, the last stretch familiar to those who walked in 1976, and to the Cathedral (the longest Gothic church in Europe) where we prayed

It was then just a short walk to St Peter's Catholic School, and a chance to dry out!