17/06/2026
CRICH PILGRIMAGE 2026
This year’s Pilgrimage will take place on Sunday 5 July.
Timings
The site opens at noon. All who wish to attend are asked to be on site by 1430 hours when the gates will close to allow the Civic Procession to commence. The service will commence at approx. 1500 hours. The event will close at 1700 hours. PLEASE DO NOT COME TO THE SITE BEFORE NOON TO ENABLE THE SETTING UP OF THE EVENT. The police have advised RHQ that they will be asking drivers of vehicles, of those not working, to leave the immediate vicinity and come back at noon.
Parking
The only available parking is on a steep hillside, in a field. There is Blue Badge parking, on the flattest part, however it is very limited and still on uneven ground. Once the area is full, then those with a Blue Badge will have to park with the other cars. To help us ensure that the spaces are utilised best, if you can, we would advise that those with mobility issues, are dropped off and the Blue Badged area kept for those who are driving and require the space. There will be a drop off point close to the roundabout.
The Cadets from Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire will be in attendance. They will be asking for a minimum parking donation of £2 cash per car. Please do not abuse the cadets who are collecting the money to offset the cost of the Pilgrimage and site. It would be helpful if you have the right change.
Stands
There will be various stalls including the Museums, an Association Tent and RHQ (which will once again host the popular tombola), and refreshment stands selling a variety of food and drink, as well as the Band of The Mercian Regiment and the Regimental Mascot. Whilst some stands may take card payments, please note that all will accept cash.
Standard Bearers
There is a tent available for all Standard Bearers. They are asked to meet with Mr Keith Kenworthy at the Standard Bearers Tent at 1400 hours for a briefing.
Wreaths & Poppy Crosses
If anyone wishes to lay a wreath, they are asked to join in at the end of the Civic procession and will be called forward for the wreath laying , at the appropriate time. Anyone who wishes to purchase a wreath is asked to inform the Assistant Regimental Secretary [email protected] to ensure that one is ready for you, on the day, for collection. Wreaths cost £20 and payment details will be provided when ordering one. Poppy Crosses are available to purchase, on the day, at a cost of £3. Please note that RHQ sell both the wreaths and the Poppy Crosses at the purchase cost.
We look forward to seeing you on the hillside
