Ed Byrne
Ed Byrne is an internationally acclaimed stand-up comedian and well-known to TV audiences through programmes such as Dara & Ed’s Road To Mandalay and Mock The Week, as well as hosting Live At The Apollo and The Great Comic Relief Bake Off. An avid hill walker and canoeist, Ed also writes a column for The Great Outdoors magazine.
Published: 6 March 2018
The most challenging aspect was probably the heat. And getting up early in the morning in order to avoid the heat. I’m used to walking in places like Scotland where heat is rarely an issue.
What were you hoping to experience travelling the famous medieval pilgrimage, Camino de Santiago?
I was looking forward to a decent walk. I’m a big fan of hiking so was looking forward to a bit of scenery and maybe some outdoor adventuring.
What was your favourite moment of the journey?
There was one day when all the others were travelling by horseback, but because Heather was allergic to horses she had to walk, so I walked with her. It was just a really good hike and I felt like Heather, who never really fancied walking before, really started to get into it.
What was the most challenging aspect?
Probably the heat. And getting up early in the morning in order to avoid the heat. I’m used to walking in places like Scotland where heat is rarely an issue.
Did the pilgrimage impact on your own beliefs about faith?
Can’t say that it did. I think, as we get older, we get more settled in our beliefs or lack thereof. I can honestly say I don’t think anybody’s beliefs were impacted particularly strongly. Hanging out with Kate probably softened my attitude towards priests, though.
What was the most surprising thing you learned - either about the people you met, the places you visited or yourself?
There was one evening when myself, JJ and Neil made dinner for everyone and while we were chopping the spuds Neil told us about his childhood. I had met Neil before and I knew he grew up in care but I didn’t realise just how rough his upbringing was.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to somebody considering the Camino de Santiago?
Be aware that it’s really very busy and a lot of the route goes through towns or along main roads. It’s not great for getting away from it all. However, it does have a great sense of community.
