Wednesday September 23rd 2026
St Cuthbert's Way
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A much-loved pilgrimage walking route through the Scottish Borders has received global recognition after it was included in a ‘travel Bible’ for the first time.
St Cuthbert’s Way has been named by Lonely Planet as one of the top travel experiences in the world for 2027.
The 62.5-mile (100 km) long-distance walking and pilgrimage crosses the border between Scotland and England, from Melrose to Lindisfarne, through the wild uplands of the Scottish Borders to Northumberland, through moorlands, past ghostly hillforts, stopping at village pubs on the way to the intertidal zone across to Holy Island.
Now it is hoped that the recognition will result in an influx of international visitors to the region.
Councillor Euan Jardine, the Leader of 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.
“From the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders to the dramatic approach to Lindisfarne, it offers a wonderful mix of challenge, tranquillity and discovery – with plenty of memorable views and a strong sense of connection to the landscape and St Cuthbert’s story.
“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.”
The Lonely Planet entry describes the route as a “beautifully rewarding, long-distance walking experience, which combines wild landscapes, peaceful countryside and a real sense of history”.
Vicki Miller, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, 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.
“The South of Scotland is hugely popular for active outdoor pursuits, such as walking and cycling, and in line with the ambition of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy, we continue to work with our partners to inspire visitors and develop the visitor experience.
“This 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.”
For more than fifty years Lonely Planet has been at the forefront of the rapidly changing world of travel.
Today Lonely Planet is the world’s leading travel publisher, with over 800 titles in print, iconic guidebooks spanning the entire globe as well as best-selling gift and illustrated titles to inspire and empower travellers, as well as inform.
Tweet Share on FacebookNews
