Walk St Cuthbert's Way - A Journey Through History and Tranquillity

St Cuthbert's Way is a stunning 62.5-mile (100 km) long-distance trail that takes walkers on a journey from Melrose in the Scottish Borders to Holy Island (Lindisfarne) in Northumberland. Following in the footsteps of St Cuthbert, a 7th-century saint, the route passes through historic abbeys, rolling countryside, the rugged Cheviot Hills, and the stunning Northumberland coastline.

This well-signposted route blends history, nature, and spirituality, making it an unforgettable experience for those looking for an inspiring pilgrimage or a scenic walking adventure.

Why Walk St Cuthbert’s Way?

• Explore Historic Landmarks – Visit the ruins of Melrose Abbey, Jedburgh Abbey, and Lindisfarne Priory, all key sites in medieval Christian history.

• Breathtaking Scenery – Enjoy a variety of landscapes, from the tranquil River Tweed to the dramatic Cheviot Hills and the expansive Northumberland coastline.

• Wildlife & Nature – Encounter an array of wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, and seals near Holy Island.

• Spiritual & Peaceful – This pilgrimage route offers quiet reflection and a chance to walk in the footsteps of monks who carried St Cuthbert’s remains across the region.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is the best time to walk St Cuthbert’s Way?

April – October is the best season, offering pleasant weather and optimal trail conditions.

2. How difficult is St Cuthbert's Way?

The walk is rated moderate, with some steep sections but suitable for most walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.

3. Can I complete St Cuthbert’s Way in fewer or more days?

Yes! While the suggested itinerary spans seven days, experienced walkers may complete it in fewer, while others may choose a more leisurely pace with additional stopovers.

4. Do I need to carry my own luggage?

No, baggage transfer services are available to transport your bags between accommodations, allowing you to enjoy the walk without heavy loads.

5. How do I get back from Holy Island at the end of the walk?

Shepherds Walks Holidays provide a transfer service to Berwick-upon-Tweed railway station, making onward travel easy.

6. What should I know about crossing to Holy Island?

Holy Island is tidal, and the causeway can only be crossed at safe tide times. We have a great article for those wanting to walk the sands to Holy Island.

7. Can you cycle St Cuthbert's Way?

While some sections of the route are suitable for cycling, the full trail is primarily designed for walkers.

Some paths cross rough terrain, steep hills, and private land where cycling is not permitted.

8. What is the highest point on St Cuthbert's Way?

The highest point is Wideopen Hill, which stands at 368 metres (1,207 feet) above sea level. It is also the official halfway point of the walk and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

9. Is St Cuthbert's Way well waymarked?

Yes! The trail is well signposted with St Cuthbert’s Cross markers along the route, making navigation straightforward for walkers.

10. Is St Cuthbert’s Way dog friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the route. However, some sections cross farmland with livestock, so dogs must be kept on a lead in these areas.

Additionally, some accommodations may have specific pet policies, so it is best to check in advance.

Suggested Itinerary for walking St Cuthbert's Way

A typical walk along St Oswald’s, just one of the tour itineraries from Shepherds Walks Holidays for a self-guided walking holidays along St Cuthbert's Way.

Day 1: Arrive in Melrose

Your journey begins in Melrose, the birthplace of St Cuthbert. Take the opportunity to explore Melrose Abbey, where it is believed that the heart of Robert the Bruce is buried. This charming town, nestled in the Scottish Borders, is a fitting start to your pilgrimage.

🚆 Getting there: We highly recommend arriving by public transport as there is no long-stay parking in Melrose.

🚗 Prefer to drive? Consider our alternative Rothbury arrival version of this trip.

Day 2: Melrose to St Boswells – 7 miles (12 km)

Setting off from Melrose Abbey, you will follow a gentle route to St Boswells, walking alongside the River Tweed and passing through peaceful woodland and farmland. This is a relaxed start to your journey, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of the Borders countryside.

🏡 Overnight: St Boswells

Day 3: St Boswells to Jedburgh – 10.5 miles (17 km)

Today’s walk takes you to Maxton, once a key meeting place for March Days, where Scottish and English representatives settled border disputes in the 14th century. You’ll also pass Lilliard’s Stone, commemorating a legendary Scottish heroine.

Your day ends in Jedburgh, a town rich in history, with highlights including the magnificent Jedburgh Abbey, Mary Queen of Scots’ House, and charming local shops.

🏡 Overnight: Jedburgh (approx. 1.5 miles from the trail)

Day 4: Jedburgh to Kirk Yetholm – 15 miles (24 km)

Leaving Jedburgh, you will ascend towards Wideopen Hill, the highest point of St Cuthbert’s Way and the official halfway mark of the trail. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking, offering sweeping vistas of the Scottish Borders and Northumberland.

The day concludes in Kirk Yetholm, a picturesque village just a mile from the English border and famous as the endpoint of the Pennine Way.

🏡 Overnight: Kirk Yetholm

Day 5: Kirk Yetholm to Wooler – 13 miles (21 km)

Crossing into England, you will traverse the Cheviot Hills, one of the most remote and rugged sections of the route. Descending into the College Valley, you will pass through Hethpool, a secluded and peaceful part of Northumberland National Park, before reaching Wooler.

Known as the ‘Gateway to the Cheviots,’ Wooler is a welcoming town with a long history of sheep farming and wool production, offering a warm Northumberland welcome.

🏡 Overnight: Wooler

Day 6: Wooler to Fenwick – 12 miles (19 km)

This section of the walk is packed with history and natural beauty. The highlight of the day is St Cuthbert's Cave, a striking sandstone outcrop where monks carrying St Cuthbert’s body are said to have sheltered after fleeing Viking attacks on Lindisfarne in 875 AD.

From the cave, enjoy spectacular views of the Cheviot Hills and the Northumberland coast, a glimpse of the final leg of your journey.

🏡 Overnight: Fenwick

Day 7: Fenwick to Holy Island – 5.5 miles (9 km)

The final day of your journey is a truly unique experience. You will walk across the tidal causeway or the Pilgrims' Causeway, a route that can only be crossed at low tide.

🚐 Transfer back to Berwick-upon-Tweed: We will pick you up and transfer you to Berwick-upon-Tweed railway station for your journey home.

Walking St Cuthbert’s Way is more than just a journey—it’s a pilgrimage through time, history, and stunning landscapes.


Further Reading

1. Walking Holidays along St Cuthbert's Way

2. Harvey Map - St Cuthbert's Way

3. 118 miles - 48 hour challenge walk along a section of St Cuthbert's Way

4. The best long distance trails in Northumberland