The annual Boxing Day pilgrimage from Ripon Cathedral to Fountains Abbey attracted several hundred people who took part in the four-mile walk between the two major religious sites.

With the sun breaking through early morning mist, conditions were ideal for pilgrims of all ages, some of whom had attended the Sung Eucharist service that preceded the walk which began at 10.15.

The Bishop of Ripon, the Rt Revd Anna Eltringham and Dean of Ripon the Very Revd John Dobson, headed the procession as it set off from the cathedral forecourt and made its way up Kirkgate, along Westgate, onto Park Street and beyond Mallorie Park.

Some of the walkers had dogs with them for the stroll, which followed an array of cross carrying pilgrims celebrating the feast of St Stephen - the first Christian martyr.

Organised by the cathedral and stewarded by its volunteers, who ensured safe crossing at every road junction for the walkers, the event was once more supported by the National Trust (NT) which provided free entry to Studley Royal and the Fountains Abbey estate for those pilgrims who are not members of the National Trust.

At the end of the walk to the famous abbey ruin, walkers were invited to a rousing service of prayers and Christmas carols held in the atmospheric surrounds of the cellarium with its magnificent vaulted ceiling.

Take a look at our gallery below for pictures from the day. All images by Gerard Binks.