Celebs Announced for BBC Two’s Pilgrimage: The Road to Wild Wales

Pilgrimage is set to make a return with its sixth series, coming soon to BBC Two and iPlayer. Seven well-known personalities, representing diverse faiths and beliefs, will embark on a modern-day pilgrimage along the North Wales Pilgrim’s Way.

In “Pilgrimage: The Road to Wild Wales,” the three-part series will showcase these celebrity pilgrims as they traverse a path honoring Celtic early Christian saints, leading them to Bardsey Island, also known as the ‘Island of 20,000 saints’.

Among the participants are wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan; Spencer Matthews, a former reality TV star turned entrepreneur in search of deeper answers; journalist Sonali Shah from a Jain upbringing; comedian Eshaan Akbar exploring his lapsed Muslim background; Amanda Lovett, a practicing Catholic seeking realizations; actor Tom Rosenthal identifying as ‘areligious’; and Christine McGuinness embracing spirituality without adhering to one specific faith.

The journey along the North Wales Pilgrim’s Way, established in 2011, weaves through ancient churches dedicated to sixth and seventh-century saints while showcasing the natural beauty of Eryri (Snowdonia) and the North Wales coast path.

Over two weeks on foot and by bus, the pilgrims will cover 220km from Flint Castle to Bardsey Island. They’ll face challenging terrains like Yr Wydffa (Mount Snowdon), spending nights in various accommodations ranging from caravans to climbers’ huts.

Reaching Bardsey Island holds profound significance historically for its association with early Christian monks seeking spiritual solace. The perilous crossing of Bardsey Sound poses an ultimate test for these modern-day pilgrims.

Spencer Matthews expressed his anticipation for this unique experience saying: “I’m on a quest to broaden my knowledge… I want to learn about different faiths… develop a firm understanding of my faith.”

Christine McGuinness reflected on her motivation post-autism diagnosis: “I find socialising quite awkward… I want to have good memories… learn more about other people… by pushing myself.”

Michaela Strachan views walking as meditative: “I find it very cathartic… There’s simplicity in just walking… connecting with nature. I guess that’s my form of spiritual engagement.”

Amanda Lovett highlighted her hope for self-discovery during this pilgrimage: “I’ve done school runs for 32 years…. It’s time now…. Digging deep and seeing how I’ll evolve in the future.”

Eshaan Akbar humorously shared his perspective on why he chose this journey despite some reservations: “It’ll be fun…. I’m really looking forward to the experience but I can’t promise that I won’t moan for most of it.”

Sonali Shah saw this pilgrimage as an opportunity for personal growth reflecting on her upbringing and beliefs: “Using agnostic hasn’t been quite right.”

Tom Rosenthal welcomed the chance for introspection stating: “Dedicating myself … is an opportunity to reflect upon my spirituality.”

“Pilgrimage” promises viewers an insightful exploration into spirituality and life’s meaning through these celebrities’ candid experiences. Daisy Scalchi, BBC’s Head of Religion and Ethics for television praises their authenticity while executive producer Caroline Matthews lauds this series as one of their strongest yet.

Stay tuned for “Pilgrimage: The Road to Wild Wales” airing soon on BBC Two.