Walking St Cuthbert's Way

Highlights

• A stunning walk along the borders of Scotland and England
• Beginning in Melrose journeying along the Border country to finish at Lindisfarne Abbey
• A historical and cultural journey of some 100kms, crossing the Eildon and the Cheviot Hills and ending on Holy Island
• Experience iconic Scottish and Northumbrian scenery, picturesque villages and numerous castles and sites of religious significance along the way
• Optional add-on in Lindisfarne at the end of the journey

What's this trip about?

At one point bishop of the great Benedictine abbey at Lindisfarne, Cuthbert began his calling in Melrose Abbey around 651, some say after a vision, and he became a saint some thirty years later when his body was exhumed and found to be in perfect condition. Taken then to Durham Cathedral, thousands of pilgrims visited his grave over many centuries until the dissolution of the monasteries in the 1530's by Henry VIII. At the Farne islands where he lived for many years, his legacy lives on amongst the vast, protected bird population and the spiritual atmosphere that still draws thousands of visitors each year. This six-night, self-guided walk begins in Melrose where St Cuthbert began his religious orders in the 7th Century at Melrose Abbey. The route crosses the Eildon Hills, and with incredible views over the border soon reaches the banks of the river Tweed. Passing castles, stately homes and pretty villages, as well as rich agricultural farmland and countryside, the route explores the border country across incredible scenery and a rich historical landscape, ending with a memorable stay on Holy Island, reached by a causeway only open at low tide. The route is well waymarked throughout and the walking itself is varied, with some easy riverside and farmland stretches as well as some rougher going on modest hills. Your evenings will be spent in the company of fellow walkers from all around the world, experiencing quality hotels, offering the very best of Scottish hospitality. All accommodation is on a bed and breakfast basis, with evening meals and picnic lunches easily available either at your hotel, or in the nearby village.This six night self guided walk follows the life and history of St Cuthbert of Lindisfarne, a devout hermit, revered as one of the earliest conservationists, in his efforts to protect local birdlife on the Northumbrian Coast.

What's excluded

• Travel insurance
• Single accommodation (available on request - compulsory supplement)
• Solo traveller supplement (where only one person is travelling on a departure date)
• Visas or vaccinations
• Travel to the start and from the end point

Accommodation