Route Overview

Where is St Cuthbert’s Way?

St Cuthbert’s Way is a 100km (62 miles) National Trail between Scotland and England, named after a 7th-century saint who had a pivotal role in the development of the region. This well-marked route offers easy-to-moderate walking through diverse landscapes, including farmland, woods, hills, moorland, and coastal areas. The hike ends with a walk across tidal sands to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, a notable early Christian site.

St Cuthbert was a devout Christian who’s piety and hard work helped grow this turbulent region’s religious belief in a time of great uncertainty. The Holy Island of Lindisfarne was a great centre of Early Celtic Christianity and Cuthbert became its bishop. Cuthbert is regarded as the patron saint of Northumbria. He grew up near Melrose Abbey in Scotland. After seeing a vision in 651 on the night Aidan, the founder of Lindisfarne, died, he decided to become a monk. By 662, he was prior at Melrose and later at Lindisfarne around 665. In 684, he became bishop of Lindisfarne but resigned in 686, returning to his hermitage, sensing his end was near. He was likely in his early 50s when he died. 11 years after his death when his body was exhumed it was reported it had not perished. Numerous miracles were also attributed to his intercession and to intercessory prayer near his remains. After he was canonised he became the most popular saint in England during the medieval period and was held in special regard by the people of Northumbria.

Why should you walk St Cuthbert’s Way?

St Cuthbert’s Way is a unique international trail starting in Scotland and ending in Northumberland, England. It begins in Melrose where Saint Cuthbert started his vocation after he joined the religious life in the abbey. It winds through the border to the scenic hills of the Cheviots and to local market towns such as Morebattle, Kirk Yetholm and Wooler before ending at his resting place on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Along the way you can explore historic sites like Melrose and Dryburgh abbeys, the Eildon Hills, Roman Dere Street and Iron Age hillforts before the unique ending by crossing the tidal causeway at the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

The trail follows the Tweed Valley, passing through Kirk Yetholm and crossing the Cheviots in Northumberland National Park. Rich in history, the route features battlefields, villages, market towns, medieval abbeys, castles, and varied unspoiled vistas. St Cuthbert’s Way follows the site of contentious border skirmishes between Scottish and English Kings throughout the centuries. Northumberland has more castles than any other county in England!

Easily accessible from Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Newcastle, you can get to Melrose, the start of the hike by rail or bus. Opened in 1996, the trail is one of Scotland’s Great Trails offering an ever changing variety of scenery and spectacular views with a unique and truly memorable finish.

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

Spring (March, April, and May)

As nature reawakens from its wintry slumber, life is once again restored along St Cuthbert’s Way. Wildflowers bloom and the days grow longer, allowing for an atmospheric hike against a breathtaking backdrop. In spring, temperatures begin to rise, reaching an average of 9-14°C (48.2-57.2°F), while rainfall begins to diminish, providing more opportunities to enjoy hiking on St Cuthbert’s Way.

Summer (June, July, and August)

The region basks in the warmth of the sun, offering an invitation to explore its wonders. Lush greenery covers the land, providing a vibrant backdrop for your hiking adventures. During summer, temperatures climb to a pleasant 17°C (63°F), making it the ideal time to hike. The rainfall average is similar to that of England’s South East, allowing for long days of exploration and discovery!

Autumn (September, October, and November)

Nature paints a masterpiece as the landscape transforms into a tapestry of autumnal colours. The leaves swap their summer greens for warm, earthy colours. Daily temperatures gradually cool during autumn, ranging from 12-14°C (54-57°F), while occasional showers enhance the lushness of the landscape.

Winter (December, January, and February)

During winter, temperatures hover around 2-6°C (36-43°F). Due to this and the fact that a lot of the accommodations are closed, it is only recommended that very experienced hikers take on St Cuthbert’s Way during this time of year. There is a likelihood of snowfall during these months, making sections of the trail treacherous and at times impassible.

With all that said, the weather in the UK is extremely unpredictable and one must always assume that it can change so rain gear is essential. The Hillwalk Tours hiking season is from March to October, during which time we are happy to help you organise your hiking trip. St Cuthbert’s Way is walkable year-round but the best weather is from May to July, attracting the most visitors. Early Spring can also offer fine weather in the Borders, Northumberland coast, and Northumberland National Park.

How long does it take to hike the St Cuthbert’s Way?

The 100km (62 miles) is a long-distance National Trail in length in total. It usually takes between 6 to 9 days to complete. This depends on the pace you walk it, fitness levels and what activities and attractions you may like to visit along the way.

At Hillwalk Tours, we offer Gentle, Moderate and Challenging tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. Within these levels, you can choose between 4 to 9-day hiking tours to complete the full trail or part of it. All you have to decide is how many kilometres/miles you would like to walk per day and we’ll take care of the rest!

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Tour Route

Types of Trails

Choosing the right hiking tour for you can be, at times, tricky. It is always important to consider your own physical capability and comfort levels.

For example, at Hillwalk Tours, we have grouped each trail route we offer into three categories depending on personal preference and fitness levels. These are – gentle, moderate, and challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include anything from 4 to 13-day itineraries, with customers given the option to add rest days where they see fit.

Our gentle hikes are perfectly suited for those who would consider themselves as a part-time hiker who enjoys taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our moderate hikes will suit people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity of covering plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits. Finally, our challenging hikes are for hikers who look to set off early in the morning and not stop until they have reached their destination.

With regards to our St Cuthbert’s Way, we offer Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hikes. Each of these hiking categories cover the following average hiking distance and time each day:

Gentle: 14-16km or 9-10 miles per day and between 3-5 hours per day

Moderate: 18-22km or 11-14 miles and between 4-7 hours per day

Challenging: 22-28km or 14-18 miles and between 5-8 hours per day

Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes

If you decide to walk the trail with Hillwalk Tours, you will receive a detailed walking pack once you have fully booked your hiking holiday. This walking pack will include detailed Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and unique route notes and walking directions written and constantly updated by our route development team. By personally walking each trail and creating our own detailed route notes, it allows us to provide more itineraries, route options and alternatives than what you will typically find across generic guidebooks. It also includes GPS tracks meaning you will never have to worry about getting lost.

Starting and Finishing Point

The St Cuthbert’s Way weaves through the stunning and varied landscapes of the border region between Scotland and England. The trail starts in the historic Scottish town of village of Melrose and continues to Dryburgh with its famous abbey.

The route then heads to the Eildon Hills which afford a fantastic vantage point over the landscape of the Scottish Borders. The Way then follows the Roman Road of Dere Street in a straight line through rolling fields, meadows, monuments and woodland near Harestanes. Crossing the River Teviot over a rope bridge you pass the ruins of 14th century Cessford Castle.

Onwards to Morebattle you later climb the wonderfully named Wideopen Hill which is the highest point on the trail and gives you a magnificent panorama to take in. At the end of the Pennine Way at Kirk Yetholm you spend much of the day in moorlands at 250m, then you cross the border into England as you hike along the Cheviots ending at Wooler.

From Wooler you cross the Weetwood Moors continuing on a roman Road until near the Kyloe Hills you reach Saint Cuthbert’s Cave where his body was sheltered while his colleagues transported him from Lindisfarne. Soon after you are greeted with the distant view of the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and you know then you are nearing the end of your adventure.

The final day of St Cuthbert’s Way is a highlight for most hikers. A pleasant walk through meadows and fields leads to the coast where a causeway connects Lindisfarne to the mainland. You can cross to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne via the road or the ancient Pilgrim’s Way across Beal Sands which marks the end of your hike. Be sure to check the times of the tides because it is accessible only when the tide is out. Once on the still and calming Holy Island don’t forget to explore the island’s medieval priory, castle, coastal nature reserve as well as cafes and pubs.

Sample St Cuthbert’s Way Itineraries

The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle, Moderate and Challenging itineraries of hiking St Cuthbert’s Way.

Gentle 7-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Melrose

Day 2: Melrose to St Boswells (6.5 – 8 miles / 10.5-12.5 Km)

Day 3: St Boswells to Jedfoot Bridge (10 miles / 16.5 Km)

Day 4: Kirknewton to Wooler ( 8 miles / 12.5 Km)

Day 5: East Horton to The Lindisfarne Inn (Beal) (9.5 miles / 15 Km)

Day 6: The Lindisfarne Inn (Beal) to Holy Island of Lindisfarne (8 miles / 12 Km)

Day 7: Depart Lindisfarne

Moderate 8-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Melrose

Day 2: Melrose to Maxton (9.5-11 miles / 15.5-17.5 Km)

Day 3: Maxton to Jedburgh (10.5 Miles / 17 Km)

Day 4: Jedfoot Bridge (or Brownrig) to Kirk Yetholm (12 or 15.5 miles / 25 or 19 Km)

Day 5: Kirk Yetholm to Wooler (14 miles / 22 Km)

Day 6: Wooler to The Lindisfarne Inn (Beal) (13.5 miles / 21.5 Km)

Day 7: The Lindisfarne Inn (Beal) to Holy Island of Lindisfarne (8 Miles / 12.5 Km)

Day 8: Depart Lindisfarne

Challenging 7-Day

Day 1:  Arrival in Melrose

Day 2: Melrose to Jedburgh (20 miles / 32 Km)

Day 3: Jedburgh to Kirk Yetholm (17.5 miles / 28 Km)

Day 4: Kirk Yetholm to Wooler (14 miles / 22 Km)

Day 5: Wooler to The Lindisfarne Inn (Beal) (12 miles / 19 Km)

Day 6: Lindisfarne Inn (Beal) to Holy Island of Lindisfarne (6 miles / 10 Km)

Day 7: Depart Lindisfarne

Hillwalk Tours St Cuthbert’s Way Map

The St Cuthbert’s Way Terrain

Waymarking

The St Cuthbert’s Way is well waymarked with the St Cuthbert’s Cross Symbol and is generally easy to follow making navigation easy. These waymarks guide you along the designated route, ensuring that you stay on track and don’t miss any of the stunning coastal views or important landmarks along the way. In combination with our route notes which we produce in-house you’ll stay on course and experience the best hiking the trail has to offer.

Difficulty of the St Cuthbert’s Way

The long distance hiking trail in Scotland is quite beginner friendly, so it’s ideal for first time hikers and those who like to take their time and see the sights. The St Cuthbert’s Way primarily traverses well-maintained field paths, tracks, and minor roads. The terrain is mostly sand, fields, meadows, and firm moorland, all of which provide good footing and are often cushioned by grass. However, during and after heavy rain, some paths can become muddy or boggy. Additionally, sections with longer grass can quickly soak you when it rains, so we recommend wearing appropriate footwear.

At Hillwalk Tours, we offer three tour grading levels (gentle, moderate and challenging) depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. Within these levels, you can choose between 5 to 10-day hiking tours to complete the trail. All you have to decide is how many kilometres / miles you would like to walk per day and we take care of the rest!

Sights & Attractions on St Cuthbert’s Way

The Three Great Borders Abbeys

Within a relatively short distance of each other stand three magnificent (now ruined) abbeys of Melrose, Dryburgh, and Jedburgh. Slightly off the trail is the last of the great abbeys at Kelso. They are a testament to some of the most ornate medieval craftsmanship, architecture (circa 1300’s) and influence of the Catholic church during that time. Built during the reign of King David I, these monasteries suffered greatly due to their proximity to the English border enduring centuries of conflict between the Scots and the English. Each abbey was burned to the ground by English troops only to be rebuilt and burned again. They eventually fell out of use in the years leading up to the Protestant Reformation of 1560 which marked the decline of Catholicism in Scotland and the rise of the Protestant Church.

Priorwood Garden in Melrose

Next to the Abbey in Melrose lies Priorwood Garden, a National Trust for Scotland site featuring an orchard with heritage apple trees and a quaint wooded area. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Harmony Garden, which is especially stunning in the spring.

Eildon Hills

Just beyond your starting point of Melrose you climb to the top of Eildon Hill which has a commanding view of the countryside below. All around you will see the green and pleasant farmland as far as the eye can see. This was a strategically valuable site throughout history as at the top were found the remains of one of the largest iron age hillforts in Scotland. Some centuries later the Romans used this vantage point as a signaling station as they reached the edge of their ability to maintain territory in northern Britain. The Way lies north of Hadrian’s Wall and south of the Antonine Wall.

The River Tweed

The River Tweed is one of the most important salmon fishing rivers in Britain. It attracts fishers from all over the world as it doesn’t require users to have a licence to fish it. Tweed cloth does indeed get its name from the river but by mistake. In 1831 a cloth merchant in London received a letter about some “tweels” from a borders manufacturer in Hawick. Happy with ordering the material, the merchant mistakenly placed an order for some Tweed and it has stuck ever since.

Dryburgh Abbey

Another magnificent Abbey which has remained a huge attraction through the centuries. The history of these buildings closely aligns with struggle between Scotland and England over 4 centuries. Originally built in 1150, it was burned down by English troops in 1322, after which it was restored only to be again burned by Richard II in 1385. It later flourished in the fifteenth century and was finally destroyed in 1544, briefly surviving until the Scottish Reformation. Dryburgh Abbey’s picturesque ruins and tranquil setting have inspired poets and writers over the centuries. Sir Walter Scott is buried nearby in the grounds, adding to its literary allure.

Abbotsford House

Abbotsford House is a historic mansion that was once the residence of Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers. In the early 19th century Scott was a prolific writer of novels based around Scottish history. The most famous of these was Rob Roy (1817), an imaginative recount of an outlaw according to the local ruling gentry but hero to the local population. Scott’s novel turned him into Scotland’s Robin Hood a reputation which exists to this day. Dissatisfied with the income generated from his historical stories set in his home country he wrote his best known book Ivanhoe in 1819 about a noble Anglo-Saxon family in an England where the aristocracy was overwhelmingly Norman. With its tales of chivalry and jousting it is said to have romanticised the medieval age and created a heroic stereotype for the dramatisation of that period. The Abbotsford Estate is free and open to all, relax and enjoy a walk on the way-marked paths through Scott’s woodlands or along the banks of the River Tweed.

Trimontium Museum

The Trimontium Museum in Melrose provides a fascinating insight into the Roman history of the Scottish Borders. Focused on the Roman fort of Trimontium, which once protected key routes through the area, the museum showcases a wide array of artifacts that illustrate the daily lives of Roman soldiers and civilians.

Visitors can also participate in guided walks to the fort site itself, allowing them to explore the terrain and imagine the Roman presence. Situated in the center of Melrose, it is close to other attractions such as Melrose Abbey, the museum offers a rich experience for both history buffs and families.

Monteviot House and Gardens

Monteviot House is the early 18th century house which sits within 30 acres (12 ha) of land and it was built in about 1740. Unlike many other historic homes Monteviot is not a museum or art gallery but a living breathing family residence surrounded by much loved gardens. These gardens boast diverse landscapes including formal terraces, herbaceous borders, a water garden, and a rose garden, all set against the scenic backdrop of the River Teviot.

Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum

Jedburgh Jail may resemble a grand castle from the outside, but its interior tells a different tale. Constructed in the 1820s on the site of the old Jedburgh Castle, it offers visitors a glimpse into nineteenth-century prison life. Explore the cell blocks, learn about the inmates who were confined there, and discover why some considered it ‘the most comfortable jail in Scotland.’ Visits to the house and museum are free.

Mary Queen Of Scots’ Visitor Centre in Jedburgh

Queen Mary’s House, a listed sixteenth-century building in Jedburgh which is now a museum dedicated to her eventful life. She is reputed to have stayed there for a few weeks in 1566. She was Queen of Scotland from 14 December 1542 until her forced abdication in 1567. Open to the public as a museum since 1930, it focuses on Queen Mary’s story, despite some uncertainty about whether she stayed in this specific building.

Jedburgh Abbey

Jedburgh Abbey is a ruined Augustinian abbey which was founded in the 12th century. One of the four principal abbeys in the Scottish Borders it is a must-see for hikers on St Cuthbert’s Way. Nestled in the picturesque town of Jedburgh the abbey is a stunning example of early Gothic architecture with its impressive ruins showcasing a rich historical tapestry.

Founded in 1138, Jedburgh Abbey has endured centuries of turbulent history including numerous assaults during the Wars of Independence. Today, visitors can wander through its towering nave, admire the intricate stone carvings and relax in the serene cloister garden. The abbey’s visitor centre offers fascinating insights into its history and the daily lives of the monks who once lived there.

Cessford Castle

Situated near the village of Morebattle, this impressive medieval ruin provides a window into the region’s tumultuous history. Constructed around 1450 by Andrew Kerr, an ancestor of Sir Robert Kerr, the first Earl of Roxburghe, Cessford Castle was heavily fortified. The Kerrs, known as notorious Border Reivers, built the castle to defend themselves against potential retaliations.

Border Reivers

The Wars of Scottish Independence were a series of conflicts between Scotland and England in the late 13th and early 14th centuries. The political uncertainty led to a unique phenomenon in Britain where family based clans would enrich themselves by marauding and raiding throughout the region. The Border Reivers were raiders who operated along the border from the 13th to the 17th century. They were known for their skills in guerrilla warfare, horsemanship, and their ability to conduct raids, or “reives,” which involved stealing livestock, burning crops, and taking prisoners for ransom. These raids were often meticulously planned and could involve large groups of armed men. Ironically they were encouraged by the English and Scottish authorities which gave the region a lawless atmosphere and served as a buffer against invasion. The age of the Reivers came to an end in the 17th century when both kingdoms were unified under James VI when he ascended to the English throne.

The Tidal Causeway to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Once you reach the Beal Sands or tidal causeway to the island you are literally stepping in the footsteps of pilgrims who have used this crossing for millennia. Slip off your boots and feel the wet sand between your toes for that authentic experience as you approach the calm of Holy Island, the end of St Cuthbert’s Way. This is a unique end to your hike quite unlike anything else in Britain. Make sure you pay close attention to the times of the tides to ensure your access to the island is trouble free. The poles are used as navigational aides and there are rescue platforms along the route should you get caught by the incoming tide. Between 10-20 cars are stranded each year by rising water. It is best to heed the mantra of the island’s residents to “live by the tide”.

Lindisfarne Priory

Founded by St Aidan in AD 635, Lindisfarne Priory became a key center for Christian learning. Its majestic ruins including arches and cloisters, reflect its rich history. Visitors can explore the medieval church remains and a museum with artifacts from the monks’ lives. The priory offers a serene end to the St Cuthbert’s Way pilgrimage. St Cuthbert died on Inner Farne Island and was buried at Lindisfarne Priory. His grave quickly became a pilgrimage site, with many reporting miraculous healings. In AD 698, eleven years after his death, his body was exhumed and found to be incorrupt, a sign of sainthood. This discovery further elevated his status and attracted even more pilgrims.

Lindisfarne Castle

Lindisfarne Castle, perched on a rocky crag on Holy Island, is a stunning endpoint for hikers on St Cuthbert’s Way. Built in the 16th century, it offers panoramic views of the Northumberland coast. Visitors can explore its restored interiors, featuring Edwardian furnishings and historic artifacts. The castle’s unique location and breathtaking scenery make it perfect for reflection and celebration after the pilgrimage.

Bamburgh Castle

Bamburgh Castle, once home to the kings of ancient Northumbria, is one of Northumberland’s most iconic landmarks. Perched on a basalt outcrop overlooking the North Sea, this Norman castle offers breathtaking views. Visitors can explore its well-preserved interior, featuring exhibits from Anglo-Saxon artifacts to medieval weaponry. Highlights include the Great Hall, state rooms, and the Armstrong Museum. The castle’s striking appearance has made it a popular filming location for TV and films like The Last Kingdom, Macbeth, Outlander, and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.

Wildlife

St Cuthbert’s Way has diverse wildlife that inhabits its surroundings. Along this magnificent trail, hikers have the opportunity to encounter a rich variety of wildlife species. The forests and woodlands are home to red deer, one of the largest land mammals in the country. As you venture further, you may spot pine martens darting through the trees or catch a glimpse of the iconic red squirrel, with its vibrant russet coat.

The rivers and lochs along the St Cuthbert’s Way are alive with the activity of otters, playfully diving into the water and hunting for fish. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the songs of woodland birds such as the great spotted woodpecker and the charming call of the cuckoo.

On the coast of Northumbria you will find a wide range of Sealife and birds. The Cuddy Duck or Common Eider Duck is so called because of is association with Saint Cuthbert while he lived in isolation as a hermit on Inner Farne. Apart for that there are many other interesting birds to spot in the regions such as Grey Herons on the Tweed, Sedge Warblers and Rock Pippits. Meanwhile on the coast you will find Oystercatchers, Dippers, Curlews, Terns and Sandpipers. In the open moorland areas, watch out for soaring buzzards and kestrels as they hunt for prey. The wildlife found on St Cuthbert’s Way is truly a testament to the region’s natural beauty and a delightful surprise for nature lovers exploring this remarkable trail.

St Cuthbert’s Way Pop Culture

Film and TV

Avengers Endgame (2019)

Just a 40 minute drive (27 miles or 43 kilometers) north of Lindisfarne (Holy Island) is St Abbs a picturesque fishing village on the Scottish Border. Fans of the Avengers movie Endgame will find that Thor’s new home, New Asgard, is set in the picturesque village of St Abbs. As you watch the film, keep an eye out for a bottle of Irn Bru, affectionately known as Scotland’s other national drink, and notice Thor sipping on Innis & Gunn, a popular Scottish beer. These subtle nods hint at the movie’s Scottish filming locations.

At first glance, New Asgard’s scenery might evoke images of Scandinavian shores or remote islands. However, the true location is even more charming. St Abbs offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty and small-town charm, making it a must-visit for any Marvel fan or hiker in the area.

The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)

The Last Kingdom is a British drama series created by Stephen Butchard, based on Bernard Cornwell’s novels, The Saxon Stories based on 9th Century historical events. The plot follows Uhtred, a Saxon raised by Danes, who aids the kingdom of Wessex and its ruler, King Alfred, in hopes of reclaiming his ancestral home of Bebbanburg amidst Viking invasions threatening to conquer England. The series was extensively filmed in and around Bamburgh Castle, which now hosts exhibitions dedicated to the show.

Vera (2011-2025)

Vera is a British crime drama series based on Ann Cleeves’ Vera Stanhope novels. Premiering on ITV on May 1, 2011, it stars Brenda Blethyn as Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope. Nearing retirement, Vera is a dedicated and meticulous detective with the fictional Northumberland & City Police. Despite her disheveled appearance and irascible nature, she deeply cares about her work and colleagues, often showcasing her superior skills by catching small errors in her team’s thought processes. Known for her catchphrase, “I’m watching you pet,” Vera gently resolves mysteries. The exterior shots of her home are filmed at a farmhouse on the Snook, part of Holy Island. Bamburgh as well as surrounding areas feature in the series.

Meet Me On The Corner – Lindisfarne (1971)

Lindisfarne is an English folk rock band from Newcastle upon Tyne established in 1968, they are still performing to this day. As part of the 1970’s folk revival they had some chart success during the 70’s.

Books

Rob Roy and Ivanhoe – Walter Scott

Set in the 1715 Jacobite uprising, Rob Roy brilliantly evokes a Scotland on the verge of rebellion, blending historical fact and a novelist’s imagination to create an incomparable portrait of intrigue, rivalry and romance. Scott’s home at Abbotsford House is testament to his success as a writer in the early 19th century. A keen student of history his novels expand on the romance of Scotland but when his sales disappointed he changed his focus to English medieval history weaving chivalry and romance into historical settings with his novel Ivanhoe.

Food and Drink

On the St Cuthbert’s Way you can stop to eat in hotels, pubs and restaurants or go shopping in the local villages along the trail. Vegetarians and vegans also get their money’s worth in the restaurants on the Rob Roy Way.

Walker’s Shortbread

Made in Speyside, another great place to hike, is a true delicacy of Scottish snacks – Walker’s Shortbread. Shortbread is a type of rectangular Scottish shortbread that is exported all over the world. In addition to the biscuits, you can try other delicious pastries such as meringues, oat biscuits and cakes at the factory in Aberlour.

Haggis

When you think of Scottish cuisine, Haggis is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. It is a savoury pudding which is made up of a delicious combination of sheep’s pluck (organ meats), oatmeal, onions, salt, and spices. To some, haggis isn’t often the prettiest of foods, but makes up for it with its palatable taste..

Deep-Fried Mars Bars

Deep-fried Mars bars are a unique dessert that were invented in 1992 by John Davie. The famous chocolate bar is battered with a mixture of flour, eggs, and milk, then deep fried. You can find this delightful snack sold in fish and chip shops (also known as chippers) throughout Scotland.

Neeps and Tatties 

Often accompanying the national dish of haggis, neeps and tatties are made from root vegetables that have been boiled and mashed into two delicious side dishes. When served alongside Haggis, the meal in its entirety is called a “Burns supper”. Neeps and tatties is just another name for potatoes and turnips.

Cullen Skink

Originating in the northeastern part of Scotland in a small village named Cullen, this creamy smoked fish soup is another traditional Scottish dish. Cullen skink consists of smoked haddock, cream, potatoes, and onions, and is typically served with a side of toasted bread. While it originated as a local specialty of Cullen, you can find this popular soup on Scottish menus nationwide.

Scotch Whisky

It is hard to not mention Scotland without ever thinking of their world-renowned scotch whisky. It can be made from malted barley, wheat and/or rye with every whisky having to be aged in an oak barrel for at least three years. With the first written record of whisky recorded in 1494, there are now around 140 whisky distilleries currently operating in Scotland.

Irn Bru

Often referred to as Scotland’s second national drink, Irn-Bru is an orange-coloured soft carbonated drink that holds a distinctively sweet, tangy taste. It is so popular throughout Scotland that it has long been the best-selling carbonated drink ahead of Coca-Cola and is the third largest selling soft drink across the United Kingdom. The Scots are such fans of this fizzy pop that they even use it to glaze their ham or to make cupcakes!

Drambuie

Drambuie is a Scottish liqueur. It was invented in the 18th Century by John MacKinnon. The name Drambuie is thought to originate from the Scottish Gaelic phrase An Dram Buidheach. This means “the drink that satisfies” or “the satisfying dram”.

Newcastle Brown Ale

Long associated with city of Newcastle, this beer is available throughout Northumberland and beyond. Newcastle Brown Ale is perceived in the UK as a working-man’s beer, with a long association with heavy industry. In the North East, Newcastle Brown Ale is often given the nickname “Dog”, alluding to the British euphemism of seeing a man about a dog. This was traditionally used as code for a working man leaving the house to go to the pub. It is also known as Broon, “brown” pronounced in the Geordie dialect. Elsewhere in the UK, it is known as Newkie Brown.

Singin’ hinnies

A singin’ hinny is a type of scone cooked on a hot griddle. The recipe includes flour, butter, lard, currants, salt, and milk, with baking powder as a raising agent. As the mixture cooks, the melting fats create a hissing sound, making it seem like the scones are singing. “Hinny” is a term of endearment in Northumberland, highlighting the affection for this beloved scone.

Is the St Cuthbert’s Way Vegan Friendly?

The vegan diet has become more and more popular throughout Europe in recent years, and you will find that there are plenty of vegan options available in most eateries. Each of the accommodation we work with at Hillwalk Tours have given us their guarantee that vegan breakfasts will be catered for once they have been informed. That being said, some of the more rural locations of the trail may have limited options so we advise bringing certain items such as plant-based milk, nut butters or protein powders if you so choose.

In addition, the following apps show restaurants which offer vegetarian and/or vegan options:

• Happy Cow (€0.99)
• Vanilla Bean (free)

Nearby Trails

There are various other Scottish and English trails available to you once you have completed St Cuthbert’s Way. Here are the other Hillwalk Tours nearby hiking tours we offer:

• West Highland Way
• Fife Coastal Path
• Great Glen Way
• Speyside Whisky Trail
• Hadrian’s Wall East to West
• Hadrian’s Wall West to East

St Cuthbert’s Way Way Tips and FAQs

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Hillwalk Tours

About Us

Hillwalk Tours is an award-winning walking tour operator which specialise in self-guided walking holidays in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales and along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Our goal is to create happy experiences for all of our customers, suppliers & staff.

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Leave No Trace

We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.

What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.

Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.

Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.

The Benefits of Hiking

In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:

Improve strength and fitness

• Weight loss
• Muscle gain
• Improve metabolism
• Improve digestion
• Better quality sleep
• Increase in Vitamin D
• Improve discipline
• Sense of achievement
• Living in the present moment

Hiking Equipment List

For a more in-depth list of recommended hiking equipment list, click here.