St Cuthbert's Way Walking Tours in Scotland

St Cuthbert's Way

The St Cuthbert’s Way is a historical walking trip through the Scottish Borders and Northumberland countryside. It finishes with a memorable walk across coastal flats to the spectacular Holy Island, one of Europe’s most famous Christian sites.

This route is perfect for anyone with an interest in history and unspoiled landscapes. It passes close to the graceful ruins of Dryburgh Abbey where Sir Walter Scott is buried, and the cave where St Cuthbert’s remains were stored. Stay in ancient market towns such as Melrose, Jedburgh and Wooler and enjoy views to the surrounding hills. Follow way-marked trails and travel as a pilgrim as you visit places that are closely associated with St Cuthbert’s life. Discover the foothills of the remote Cheviot Hills and enjoy the fascinating approaching to the dramatic Northumberland Coast. Take a moment to admire the far-reaching views and enjoy a picnic in the grass before descending towards the North Sea. Walk across the tidal causeway leading to Holy Island and Lindisfarne, one of the true highlights of this trip.

Macs Adventure has been running self-guided walking adventures along the St Cuthbert's Way since 2008 and our customers have been having a fantastic time. Read about their walking experiences in the 100+ independent reviews that we have received so far.

Discover St Cuthbert's Way

Why book your St Cuthbert's Way Walking Holiday with Macs Adventure?

Macs Adventure has been running self-guided walking holidays along the St Cuthbert's Way since 2008. It was our second-ever trip to be added to our collection of national trails in Northern England, just after the Hadrian's Wall Path.

We have multiple itineraries allowing you to walk the route between 4 and 7 days, we want to give you the freedom to choose your route, itinerary and travel companions and to take each walk at your own pace. We offer tours that have you staying in comfortable, friendly overnight accommodation in local B&Bs and guesthouses where a warm Northumbrian welcome is always guaranteed.

We carry your bags to lighten your load so you can concentrate on simply putting one foot in front of the other and enjoying the unique culture, food and scenery of Northern England. You can book with confidence that we have it all covered for you.

We want to showcase our expertise, by giving you all the resources you will ever need. In the planning stage, we have blogs for you to read and a host of staff that has visited the Northumberland region - ready to share their walking experiences! On the route, we use high-quality digital mapping as well as the best maps and guidebooks to make sure you find your way.

We love the St Cuthbert's Way and our main aim is to make sure that you do too.
St Cuthbert's Way FAQ's

Q: What fitness level is required to fully enjoy this experience?

A: This is a fairly level route with a few more challenging climbs, especially between Kirk Yetholm and Wooler where the route meets the Pennine Way National Trail. At this point, your legs will be well used to the walking and you will be rewarded with far-reaching views over the surrounding hills. Depending on the chosen itinerary, the grade of this trip is either easy to moderate or moderate. This trip is well suited to regular walkers.

Q: Should I check the tides for Holy Island?

A: The final section of your walk is one of the most spectacular and unusual. The scenery is unique and although you follow the road for most of the way to Holy Island, the changing vistas and abundant birdlife will keep you occupied. Make sure you check the tidal chart for the day you pass the causeway and don't forget to check when it is safe to cross the following day. Check out the safe tide crossings here.

Q: Can I visit St Cuthbert's Cave?

A: Yes, on the stretch from Wooler to Fenwick you can visit the cave which is hidden deep in the Kyloe Hills. It is believed the monks of Lindisfarne brought the saint’s body here as a safe resting place. Climb up above the cave and you can enjoy far-reaching views to the Northumberland Coast.

Q: When is the best time of year to walk along St Cuthbert's Way?

A: This historic path is best enjoyed between spring and autumn. Traditionally, April and May have been the most popular time of year to walk the route, as the theory goes that the weather is better. In our opinion, anywhere between April and September should offer a wonderful experience.

For more information, please read our blog called Frequently asked questions about the St Cuthbert’s Way.
Essential Facts about St Cuthbert's Way

St Cuthbert is regarded as the patron saint of Northumberland and was one of the most important medieval saints.

Northumberland has more castles than any other English county, it is a legacy of the rich history of this region.

Northumberland is England’s northernmost county, right at the top of England. Bordering Scotland there is a long and interesting history to discover.

It is the birthplace of Earl Grey tea, it was blended in Northumberland in the 1830s at the request of Lady Grey, wife of former Prime Minister Earl Grey.

The Northumberland Coast is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This does not come as a surprise with its well-balanced mix of long beaches, sandy dunes, cliffs and islands.

Blog Articles

Frequently Asked Questions about the St Cuthbert's Way
There are some considerations when walking the St Cuthbert’s Way and ...
Adventure of the Week: St Cuthbert's Way
When we think of pilgrimages, we tend to think about the world's majo ...
Top Things You Should Know about the St Cuthbert’s Way
Opened in 1996, the St Cuthbert’s Way long-distance path will be cele ...
St Cuthbert’s Way - Time and tide waits for no man….
The word pilgrimage gripped me. Even as an agnostic I was intrigued. ...
Live like a local on Lindisfarne
If you are walking the St Cuthbert’s Way you should consider spending ...