St Cuthbert’s Way named among world’s best

A long-distance walking route through Northumberland has stepped onto the global tourism stage after being named among the world’s top travel experiences for 2027.

St Cuthbert’s Way has been included in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 list, which highlights 50 destinations and experiences selected by its international network of travel experts.

Stretching 62 miles, the route crosses the Scottish Borders and Northumberland before finishing on Holy Island, with walkers crossing the tidal sands to reach Lindisfarne.

Lonely Planet describes St Cuthbert’s Way as “Best for a pilgrimage”, highlighting its quiet landscapes, villages and final approach to Holy Island.

It features alongside international destinations and experiences including Ireland’s Killary Fjord, France’s Route Napoléon and India’s Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Andrew Fox, chair of Visit Northumberland, said: “We are thrilled to see Northumberland featured in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027. 

“This recognition shines a global spotlight not only on St Cuthbert’s Way, but on the wider range of world-class experiences that make Northumberland such a distinctive destination. 

“Visitors can immerse themselves in spectacular landscapes, rich history and heritage, outstanding local food and drink, wildlife and nature experiences, cycling adventures and the unique tradition of pilgrimage, including the iconic crossing to Holy Island.

“St Cuthbert’s Way perfectly captures the growing demand for more meaningful travel experiences. 

“Whether visitors come to walk, reflect, explore our coast and countryside, discover our historic sites or simply slow down and reconnect with nature, Northumberland offers an unforgettable journey and a genuine sense of place.”

The recognition adds to Northumberland’s profile as a walking destination, with St Cuthbert’s Way forming part of a wider network of routes celebrating the region’s landscapes and religious heritage.

It also comes amid continued growth in Northumberland’s visitor economy, which the supplied figures show reached a record £1.58 billion in 2025 after more than doubling in value over the past decade.

The route complements St Oswald’s Way and other Northern Saints-inspired journeys across North East England, connecting countryside, coastline and historic places of pilgrimage.

Councillor Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, added: “This is fantastic news for Northumberland and a real tribute to everything our county offers visitors. 

“Alongside St Cuthbert’s Way, we are home to some of the UK’s most celebrated walking landscapes, from the Northumberland Coast Path, which recently marked its 20th anniversary, to Hadrian's Wall Path and the new Roof of England Walk across the North Pennines National Landscape.

“Global recognition like this brings more visitors to the county, which in turn supports the businesses and communities along these routes that are at the heart of our local economy.”

Patricia Yates, chief executive of VisitBritain/VisitEngland, added: “It is wonderful to see St Cuthbert’s Way recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the best experiences in the world to enjoy in 2027. 

“Britain is blessed with so many breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastlines and remarkable history and heritage that it is fitting that a trail, which effortlessly combines all three, has received such a glowing endorsement by global travel experts.

“With more than one in three international visitors enjoying countryside walks during trips to the North East, and as VisitEngland launches its major domestic coastal campaign, we can’t wait to welcome more people to explore St Cuthbert’s Way and the great tourism businesses along its route.”

To learn more about St Cuthbert’s Way, head to www.visitnorthumberland.com.

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