St. Cuthbert’s Way

St. Cuthbert’s Way is the primary walking pilgrimage of Rhythm of Grace. It winds through the Scottish Borders and Northumberland countryside in the United Kingdom. Our pilgrimage is a guided journey led personally by Craig Babb, director of Rhythm of Grace ministries. Craig will teach and direct in a daily rhythm of morning, midday, and evening prayer as we walk with the intent to encounter God. Opportunities and direction in practicing silence, solitude, prayer of examen and other classical disciplines will also be a part this spiritual expedition. Additionally, we are proud to announce that our pilgrimage will include a Celtic retreat with the Northumbria Community at Nether Springs.

Consider joining us on our next pilgrimage.

The Rhythm of Grace pilgrimage for 2024 is over. But please consider joining us next year for another epic journey! Contact Rhythm of grace for more information as it becomes available.

2024 Trip Details

Rhythm of Grace St. Cuthbert’s Way Pilgrimage

We will follow way-marked trails and travel as pilgrims while visiting places that are closely associated with St. Cuthbert’s life. Our path passes close to the graceful ruins of Dryburgh Abbey and the cave where St. Cuthbert’s remains were hidden. Staying in ancient market towns such as Melrose, Jedburgh and Wooler we will enjoy views of the surrounding pastoral countryside. Discovering the lands of the remote Cheviot Hills and the inspiring approach to the dramatic Northumberland Coast, we will then take a moment to admire the far-reaching views of the North Sea, before finishing with a memorable walk across coastal flats to the spectacular Holy Island. Additionally, we are proud to announce that this year our pilgrimage will include a Celtic retreat with the Northumbria Community at Nether Springs.

Itinerary:

1. Thursday, July 4 - Travel Day: USA to Edinburgh

2. Friday, July 5 - Arrive Edinburgh; Gather in Edinburgh at Waverly Station at noon, then train to Tweedbank. Walk to Melrose, dinner in Melrose (2 mi)

3. Saturday walk: Melrose to St. Boswell’s (6 mi)

4. Sunday walk: St Boswell to Harestanes; taxi to Jedburgh (10 mi)

5. Monday Jedburgh taxi to Cessford; walk Cessford to Kirk Yethom (9 mi)

6. Tuesday Kirk Yethom taxi to Hethpol; walk Hethpol to Wooler (8 mi)

7. Wednesday Wooler taxi to Horton; walk Horton to Fenwick/ Beal (9 mi)

8. Thursday walk Beal to Lindisfarne (6 mi)

9. Friday, July 12 - Spend rest day in Lindisfarne

10. Friday evening - taxi to Northumbria/Nether Springs

11. Saturday Retreat at Northumbria/Nether Springs

12. Sunday - Retreat ends, Travel back to Edinburgh; Departing dinner in Edinburgh

13. Monday, July 15 - Fly Home

Trip Cost*: $2400

*COVERS: Trains from/to Edinburgh, Lodging from 7/5-7/14, Taxis, Breakfasts, Luggage Transport between hotels (1 item per person), Northumbria Retreat & Final Dinner in Edinburgh.

*DOES NOT COVER: Airfare, Transportation to/from Airport, Lunch, Dinner(except last night), Snacks, or Incidentals.

*Subject to change/cancel depending on various factors beyond our control.

Further Information:

Our 2024 St. Cuthbert’s Way Pilgrimage is a walking/ hiking pilgrimage with a planned average daily mileage of approximately 8 miles (see itinerary for approximate daily distances). Below are some suggestions to make your pilgrimage be of greatest benefit to you…

We encourage you to be thoughtful in only packing minimal necessities for your trip. While we are providing transfer of luggage from one lodging location to the next, you will still want to carry a backpack/daypack with the following recommended items:

• rain jacket & pants(or a poncho)

• fleece jacket or other warm layer

• personal medications and simple first aid supplies (most first aid items can be purchased at pharmacies in each town)

• water bottle(s) (most hikers average 1/2 liter per hour)

• sunscreen

• snacks

Other items to consider would include:

• hat with brim

• sunglasses

• walking stick/ trekking poles

• comfortable, broken-in walking/running shoes

• light-weight quick-drying clothes

• quality socks

General items you will need:

• journal/ pen

• phone charger with travel adapter & cord

• travel Insurance to cover emergency medical and evacuation if needed

• international phone plan

• up to date Passport that will not expire during trip dates

• photo copy of Passport information page

• chip or phone Credit Card for trains & purchases