Pilgrimage to Holy Island
St. Cuthbert’s Way is the premier walking pilgrimage of Rhythm of Grace. It is a life-changing experience that winds through the Scottish Borders and Northumberland countryside of The United Kingdom to Holy Island. It ties in with our celtic christian heritage and the spiritual roots of Rhythm of Grace in Northumbria. Our pilgrimage is guided 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. See our FAQ section or click below for more information.
Consider joining us on a pilgrimage to Holy Island in June 2025.
The 2025 Rhythm of Grace pilgrimage is now scheduled for June 5 - 13! Click below for more information and to register. See our FAQ section or contact Rhythm of grace with any questions.
St. Cuthbert’s Way FAQ
General Information
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St Cuthbert's Way is a historic pilgrimage route that spans approximately 62 miles from Melrose in the Scottish Borders to Holy Island (Lindisfarne) on the Northumberland coast. It follows in the footsteps of St Cuthbert, a significant figure in early Christianity.
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This route not only offers a spiritual journey but also traverses through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Scotland and England, rich with history and natural beauty. It's an opportunity to connect with God through walking, become aquainted with one of Britain’s greatest saints, and experience the serene beauty of the region.
Trip Details
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The pilgrimage is scheduled for June 5 - 13. The best time to walk this route is generally between April and September due to favorable weather conditions.
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The total distance is approximately 62 miles. The duration of the journey is 9 days and 8 nights including a retreat day on Holy Island.
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The route is mostly moderate with some challenging sections, particularly Wide Open Hill and across the Cheviot Hills. It's suitable for regular walkers but strenuous and not necessarily for beginners without some preparation.
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For the St. Cuthbert’s Way guided pilgrimage there are 6 guests, 1 spiritual director and 1 guide.
Accommodation and Logistics
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Accommodations are small, local hotels.
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Economics and scarcity of accommodations along the St. Cuthbert’s Way route requires that our pilgrims each share a room. If you are a single pilgrim, we will do our best to find another single to match you with. However if no singles become available a 30% charge will be incurred for the single occupancy. You are encouraged to sign up with a friend, family member or spouse.
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Yes, we provide baggage transfer services(one item) so you can walk with just a day pack. Your luggage will be moved between your nightly stays.
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Breakfast is included along the route and there are cafes and pubs where we will eat dinner(cost not included). Most days you will need to pack your own snacks or lunch. There are grocery stores in most of the towns for purchasing snacks and supplies.
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We will depart Edinburgh via train to Melrose. At several points along the route we will have taxis to take us to our hotels, to the trail, or to train stations.
Preparation and What to Bring
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Essential items include comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, waterproof gear, a cell phone, basic first aid items or medications, snacks, and 2 water containers. Consider the changing weather conditions, especially in upland areas.
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While the route is manageable, regular walking or some form of fitness preparation is advisable to enjoy the pilgrimage without undue strain.
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Generally, yes. The route is very safe. Typical considerations should be made for hiking on loose gravel, wet conditions and cold. The path is well-marked, but be cautious about weather conditions, particularly when crossing the tidal causeway to Holy Island. Always check tide times before crossing.
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Yes. There are groceries, pharmacies or both in most of the towns where we stay.
Safety and Health
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**EARLY BIRD 10% DISCOUNT: Trip cost is discounted to $3150 until February 4, 2025 ($500 non-refundable deposit at booking).
After February 4, 2025, the cost for our 2025 St. Cuthbert’s Way Pilgrimage is $3500.00 ($500 non-refundable deposit at booking).
This price includes: Trains from/to Edinburgh, Lodging from 6/5-6/12, Taxi transfers, Daily breakfasts, Luggage transport between hotels during the walk (1 item per person), Personally guided navigation and escort, Admission fee to Melrose Abbey, Spiritual Teaching & Directon in prayer and disciplines, and a Final group dinner on Holy Island
Price does not include: Airfare, Transportation to/from Airport, Lunch, Dinners(except last night), Snacks, or Incidentals.
*All subject to change/cancel depending on various factors beyond our control.
**Single Occupancy: Economics and scarcity of accommodations along the St. Cuthbert’s Way route requires that our pilgrims each share a room. If you are a single pilgrim, we will do our best to find another single to match you with. However if no singles become available a 30% charge will be incurred for the single occupancy.
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Cancellations made more than 30 days before the trip start will receive a full refund minus the deposit. Within 30 days, you'll receive 50% of your payment back minus the deposit.
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Yes. It is a requirement of booking this pilgrimage that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
Booking and Payment
Additional Information
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You can, but our guided option offers the benefit of planning, bookings, historical knowledge, spiritual direction, logistical support, navigation support, transportation, and local connections for disruptions or emergencies.
If you would still prefer to walk on your own, we can assist you in planning and supportoing your pilgrimage for a fee. Please reach out to craig@rhythmofgrace.org for more information.
