Step by Step: Sheffield Cathedral’s Camino Pilgrimage to Support Homelessness and Community Music

Sheffield Cathedral is inviting people from across the city and beyond to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in March 2026 - raising funds for two remarkable causes: The Archer Project and The Choir with No Name Sheffield.

Taking place from 14 - 20 March 2026, this 100km journey along the Portuguese Way from Vigo to Santiago, Spain, is open to everyone, regardless of faith. Pilgrimage offers an incredible opportunity for self-reflection, connection with new people, and building community along the way. On this occasion, it also offers the opportunity to support life-changing charities in Sheffield. 

Dean Abi Thompson, who walked the Camino with Sheffield Cathedral in 2025, said:

“Initially, I worried I wouldn’t keep up -  but the Camino taught me the beauty of slowing down, walking alongside those at the back, and realising that’s okay. This trip is not a race. It’s about connection, reflection, and raising funds for two incredible organisations that embody community and hope.” 

Funds raised will be split equally between The Archer Project, which supports people to move away from homelessness, and CWNN Sheffield, a choir for people affected by homelessness and marginalisation. Many participants in Choir With No Name Sheffield are also connected to The Archer Project, and their debut gig was held at Sheffield Cathedral.

Dean Abi added:

“Music unites people of all backgrounds. Having The Choir with No Name in Sheffield has been such a joyful addition to the Cathedral’s music-making. Seeing how both The Archer Project and CWNN create belonging and friendship is truly inspiring.”

Tom Daggett, Sheffield Cathedral’s Director of Music, who has already signed up for 2026 after walking the Camino previously, said:

“It was a profound journey. I met the most amazing people from around the world, managed to slow down, and found such a strong human connection.”

Tim Renshaw, CEO of The Archer Project, will also be joining the walk.

“I’m really looking forward to having no laptop and spending the time giving my brain a walk and talking to other people!”

Kate, representing CWNN Sheffield, will take part too,

‘’Walking to Santiago was about more than just putting one foot in front of the other. There's something uniquely rewarding about covering hundreds of miles under your own steam - no cars, no trains, just the steady rhythm of footsteps marking each day. When the hills seemed endless or the Spanish rain started falling, we kept ourselves going with good conversation and the promise of a proper meal and local wine at the end of each stage.

Reaching Santiago's main square, exhausted but elated, felt incredible. But seeing The Choir with No Name Sheffield perform a few months later made our sore feet worthwhile. Knowing that each step of our journey had helped make that joyful performance possible - that's what really mattered! I can't wait to do it again."

This trip will also include a Zoom Information Evening, where Abi, Tom, Tim, and Kate will share their experiences and answer questions, helping participants decide if the Camino is for them.

Fancy a challenge like no other? Join us on this unforgettable journey of community, reflection, and purpose. To find out more, sign up, or support the cause, learn more here