¿Onde comeza o Camiño Inglés?

The English Way is one of the most characterful routes within the Camino de Santiago. It was born from the legacy left by pilgrims who, arriving by sea from Northern Europe and the British Isles, landed on Galician shores to continue on foot to Compostela. Today, it has two recognized starting points: Ferrol and A Coruña. Two historic ports, each with its own spirit, both perfectly equipped to begin this journey.

Ferrol is, without a doubt, a very common starting point. From its port to the Plaza del Obradoiro there are about 119 kilometers, which meets the required distance to obtain the Compostela, the official certificate that recognizes the pilgrimage. The path from Ferrol takes the walker through marshlands, green valleys, small villages, and towns full of history. The entrance to the Camino is clear and well marked, and the entire area is very focused on supporting pilgrims, with accommodations, transport, and information available from day one.

A Coruña, on the other hand, offers a different but equally enriching experience. It has a deep Jacobean history and was, for centuries, a landing port for thousands of seafaring pilgrims. The city boasts an enviable monumental heritage, with its historic old town and the Tower of Hercules as key landmarks. The route from A Coruña to Santiago is about 75 kilometers long, and although it does not meet the 100-kilometer requirement to receive the Compostela, this can be fulfilled if the pilgrim certifies another 25 kilometers walked in their country of origin before arriving in Galicia. This keeps A Coruña a valid and official starting point, especially for those seeking a shorter pilgrimage or with fewer days available.

Both cities are different, yet complementary. Ferrol offers a more rural and relaxed start, while A Coruña invites you to begin with a touch of urban history and Atlantic life. The decision depends on each person, the time they have available, and the kind of journey they are seeking. What truly matters is that both options share the same essence: to experience the English Way in an authentic way, without rushing, and with that uniquely Galician hospitality that accompanies you every step of the way.

Choosing between Ferrol or A Coruña is simply deciding how we want to begin our adventure. Because, in the end, both routes converge at the same destination: Santiago de Compostela. And both deserve to be discovered, experienced, and shared as part of our shared history.