Lunchtime Talk: How pilgrimage changed the world
Professor Kathryn Hurlock investigates the varied ways that pilgrimages have shaped the history of our world in this captivating talk.
As Westminster Abbey prepares to welcome pilgrims to Edwardtide, marking the life of St Edward the Confessor, explore the connection between this long-standing pilgrimage and the wider politics of the medieval world.
Professor Kathryn Hurlock, the author of Holy Places: How Pilgrimage Changes the World, will explore how the phenomenon of pilgrimage has played a role in shaping both our religions and our world. Discover how centuries of pilgrimage have transformed the fates of cities, anointed dynasties and offered people from across the globe an opportunity for reflection.
About the Lunchtime Talk Series
Held on the second Wednesday of every month at St Margaret’s Church, our Lunchtime Talk series invites visitors to explore different aspects of Westminster Abbey’s rich history. Each talk features expert speakers and unique perspectives, perfect for anyone interested in art, architecture, and heritage.
About Kathryn Hurlock
Kathryn Hurlock is Professor of Religious and Military History at Manchester Metropolitan University. She is a religious historian, whose work focuses on how people have engaged in major religious activities from the middle ages to the present day. She has written several books on pilgrimage and crusading, most recently the global history of pilgrimage Holy Places: How Pilgrimage Changed the World (Profile, 2025). She has featured on BBC Breakfast and You're Dead To Me and has written for the Independent and the New European.
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
If you would like to look around the rest of the Abbey during your visit then we recommend you do so before you attend the Lunchtime Talk. This is to allow you enough time to see as much as possible.
Free for Associates - Admission will be granted upon presentation of a valid Association membership card.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
Doors will open at 12:45pm and the talk will begin at 1:00pm. There will be time for an audience Q&A from 1:40pm.
Meeting location
This event takes place in St Margaret's Church, please follow main visitor entry route through the security check where the event will be signposted.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted in St Margaret's. See our photography policy for more information.
