7-Day / 6-Night Moderate

From your point of arrival, use the public transport information we provide to make the journey to Melrose.

A lovely and varied hike that starts at a medieval abbey, passes through the town and then climbs over hills and moorland before continuing through woodland and farmland. The last section follows close to the peaceful River Tweed. There are several interesting sights along the route, such as Melrose Abbey, the Eildon Hills with their Iron Age hill fort and Dryburgh Abbey, with the grave of Sir Walter Scott.

You continue along the River Tweed before you follow the course of an old Roman road through an undulating landscape with lovely views over fields, meadows and landmark monuments. This is followed by an attractive woodland walk near Harestanes and Monteviot House. Cross a rope bridge over the River Teviot and then follow riverbanks to Jedfoot Bridge near Jedburgh from where you are transferred to your accommodation.

A classic hillwalk stage that spends much of the day in the moorlands above 250m. Leave the quiet border town of Kirk Yetholm behind and head out across remote, rolling hills. Cross the border into England and continue over the scenic, open hills of the Cheviots before dropping down into a small farm and follow the Elsdon Burn to Hethpool. You cross more open hillside in the lee of Wester Tor and Easter Tor, before coming to Torleehouse. Continue to the impressive bulk of Yeavering Bell, with its hillfort and then climb back up into the Cheviot Hills, where you are rewarded with fine views northwards towards the sea. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the moorland until you descend underneath Humbleton Hill towards the town of Wooler, the gateway into the Cheviots.

After a gentle climb out of Wooler you cross the Weetwood Moors and then descend to cross the River Till on the 16th century Weetwood bridge. Near the hamlet of Horton, you cross the route of a Roman road and follow a rolling landscape with the remains of WW2 defences. The romantic St Cuthbert’s Cave makes for a lovely picnic site. From the next ridge you suddenly get your first clear view of the coast and Holy Island, before a pleasant woodland walk guides you towards the end of your hike at Fenwick. A short walk along a quiet road then brings you to The Lindisfarne Inn at Beal (not on the island).

This short day is undoubtedly the highlight of St Cuthbert’s Way for most hikers. A lovely walk through meadows and fields brings you to the coast where a causeway links Lindisfarne to the mainland. From here, you can cross to Holy Island along the road or by following the ancient Pilgrim’s Way across the Beal Sands. Allow yourself enough time to explore the island with its medieval priory, castle, coastal nature reserve and inviting cafes and pubs.

There are regular bus services from Holy Island of Lindisfarne to Edinburgh and Newcastle. Full details provided upon booking.