St Cuthbert's Way, a historic walking trail in the Scottish Borders, has been named one of the world's best travel experiences in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2027 list. The 62.5-mile route, which starts in Melrose and ends at Holy Island off the Northumberland coast, was selected among 50 "inspirational destinations and unforgettable travel experiences" by the publisher's travel experts.
A quiet, historic route
Lonely Planet travel writer Oliver Smith described the walk: "The miles are mostly quiet as you tread among windswept hills, little villages and tumbledown farms. Most sublime of all is its last stage, where pilgrims cross an intertidal zone at low water to reach the Holy Island of Lindisfarne."
The trail begins in Melrose, where St Cuthbert started his religious life in 650AD, and passes through the Eildon Hills, Jedburgh, Morebattle and Town Yetholm before crossing into England. It ends at Lindisfarne, where St Cuthbert was first laid to rest. The route opened in 1996 and takes four to six days to complete without requiring high fitness levels.
Tourism boost for the region
VisitScotland's Chief Executive Vicki Miller said: "We're thrilled that Lonely Planet has included St Cuthbert's Way in its Best in Travel 2027 list. The Scottish Borders has so much to offer. Its stunning scenery, rich history and distinct culture calls to visitors from around the world, and St Cuthbert's Way offers this in abundance as it winds its way through the region."
Miller added that the accolade is "a huge opportunity to help spread that slow tourism message on the global stage, encouraging visitors to take their time to discover the region."
Shorter walks available
The route is praised as a slower experience, allowing walkers to take in moorlands, foothills and village pubs without overcrowding. For those who find the 100km challenge too much, 24 short walks ranging from one to eight miles are available, designed to match individual interests, age and fitness levels.
Councillor Euan Jardine, leader of the Scottish Borders Council, said: "Our region is blessed with some of Scotland's most spectacular walking routes, and we're especially pleased to have St Cuthbert's Way recognised in this way, both nationally and internationally. The route is a beautifully rewarding, long-distance walking experience, which combines wild landscapes, peaceful countryside and a real sense of history."
Jardine added: "We hope the Lonely Planet accolade will encourage more people, both locally and further afield to get their walking boots on and discover all what the Scottish Borders has to offer on foot."
