The Trail, described from South to North, begins at Sundon Country Park (GR 048287) on the beautiful Chiltern Hills, which are reputed to be John Bunyan's 'delectable mountains'.
Today's Pilgrims setting out on this trail will pass through some of Bedfordshire's most attractive and scenic countryside. They will also experience a variety of nostalgic places, full of interest and intrigue, connected with John Bunyan. Some of these places are associated with his travels as a tinker, while others are believed to be meeting places where he would preach - in contravention of laws then governing England.
He was imprisoned twice as a result of his non-attendance at the established church and for his illegal preaching: Firstly, from 1660 for 12 years, in Bedford County Gaol; Then, secondly, in 1675 for six months - probably in Bedford Town Jail, which is where he began writing his world-famous book, The Pilgrim's Progress, an allegory of Bunyan's own spiritual journey. The book incorporates many local places, including Houghton House near Ampthill ('House Beautiful') - which John would have visited whilst plying his trade of Tinker.
Having now reached Elstow Green, modern pilgrims who are intent on learning about this legendary Puritan Evangelist, should visit the Moot Hall and Abbey Church. And then journey north on the trail to visit Bunyan Meeting Church and Museum in Mill Street, Bedford.
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