Manchester and Salford Ecumenical Whit Walk

Honouring a tradition that began over 200 years ago, the Whit Walk processions, first held in 1801, celebrate the birthday of the Church and bring together Christians from across the region in a joyful expression of faith and community. Each year, crowds line the streets of Manchester City Centre to support the churches as they take part in this much-loved event.

Led by brass bands, the procession makes its way from Manchester Cathedral along Deansgate to St Peter’s Square. This vibrant and family-friendly event welcomes people of all ages to cheer on those walking, share in fellowship, and participate in a collective Act of Worship at St Peter’s Square. This year’s address was given by the Revd Phil Cansdale, Director of Mission and Ministry. 

To help mark the occasion and reflect on the meaning and heritage of the Whit Walks, we’ve created a special film celebrating this enduring tradition. We invite you to watch, reflect, and share in the spirit of this remarkable event.

History of the Walks

The Manchester and Salford Ecumenical Whit Walk is a cherished tradition that brings together communities across our region to share their faith, unity, and the joy of shared purpose. Rooted in the church’s history, the Whit Walks were originally established to provide children, especially those working long hours in the city’s mills, with a wholesome and uplifting way to spend their day off. 

The first ever Whit Walk was held in 1801 and is said to have arisen due to a Sunday School movement that began in 1784. The movement’s original goal was to offer children, who endured poor working conditions in factories during the week, a chance to celebrate their weekend freedom. To commemorate the anniversary of this movement, children would gather in St Anne’s square and march through Market Square to attend church services. These processions became a significant tradition in Manchester, with events like the centenary processions in 1901 drawing large crowds of up to 40,000 people.

Photo credits (above): John Davies – We Grew Up In Manchester Facebook