Episode 177 A Literary-Themed UK Adventure (Part 2) Pilgrimage, Reflection + A Romantic Cotswolds Escape
In episode 177 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy continues her chat with Lauren Eanes to cover stages two and three of her UK sabbatical. With both sets of parents, Lauren walks the Way of St David on the Pembrokeshire coast, visits St Davids, and unwinds on Caldey Island.
Then she and her husband switch to a honeymoon pace with a hike in Bannau Brycheiniog, book browsing in Hay-on-Wye, and Cotswold Way walks from Chipping Campden via Stanton, Broadway, and Broadway Tower.
Expect tips on planning a pilgrimage, base versus point to point, handling Cotswolds crowds, parking, and why slow countryside walking can transform a UK trip.
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Episode 177 – Summary
What you’ll learn in this episode
Pilgrimage Planning
How to plan a pilgrimage walk, choose a route using resources like the British Pilgrimage Trust, and adapt the experience to suit your travel style.
Pembrokeshire Coast Pilgrimage Highlights
Key moments from the Way of St David, from ancient wells and coastal views to the joy of walking with family across generations.
Retreat and Holy Island Stays
What it’s like to stay at St Non’s Retreat Centre in St Davids and St Philomena’s on Caldey Island, including meals, comfort, and atmosphere.
Literary and Countryside Exploration
Exploring Hay-on-Wye’s bookshops, hiking in Bannau Brycheiniog, and connecting literary and spiritual themes throughout the trip.
Touring the Cotswolds
How to choose a base, favourite towns and villages to visit, and tips for managing parking, crowds, and discovering hidden gems.
Practical Tips
Helpful advice on transport, walking routes, and how to make the most of slower, more meaningful UK travel experiences.
UK places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Pembrokeshire Coast (Wales) >> dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, beaches, and pilgrimage routes
- St Davids & St Non’s Retreat Centre (Wales) >> UK’s smallest city with cathedral and historic retreat
- British Pilgrimage Trust >> organisation offering maps and guidance for UK pilgrimage walks
- Hay-on-Wye >> Welsh town famous for bookshops and the Hay Festival
- Brecon Beacons >> Welsh national park known for scenic hikes and Tolkien inspiration
- Caldey Island >> holy island near Tenby with monastic history and peaceful scenery
- Cotswolds >> region of rolling hills, stone villages, and countryside walks
- Cotswold Way >> long-distance walking trail through the Cotswolds
- Rollright Stones >> ancient megalithic monuments in the Cotswolds
Food and Drink
- Caldey Island Chocolate >> handcrafted by monks on Caldey Island, especially rich dark chocolate
Words & Concepts
- Pilgrimage / “Way of St David” >> purposeful multi-day walking route linked to reflection or spirituality
- Retreat Centre >> peaceful accommodation for rest and spiritual renewal
- Wildlife Spotting >> includes kestrels, seal pups, choughs, and red squirrels
- Go Cotswolds >> small-group tour company offering day tours and transfers in the Cotswolds (use code UKTRAVPLAN for 5% discount.
- Packing Lite >> travel mindset encouraging minimal luggage and openness to new experiences
- Public Footpaths >> UK’s vast network of rights-of-way allowing countryside exploration
Related content on UK Travel Planning and London Travel Planning
Podcasts
- Episode #176 – A Literary-Themed UK Family Adventure (Part 1) – Planning a Trip with Teens with Lauren Eanes
- Episode #52 – Exploring North Wales: An Introduction with Doug Collins
- Episode #143 – Experience North Wales: Outdoor Adventures, Gastronomy, and Historical Wonders
Articles
- North Wales Travel Guide
- Things to do in North Wales (+ 7 day itinerary)
- A Perfect 3 Day Cotswolds Itinerary
