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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Andrew Smart

Scottish pilgrimage trail named one of the UK's best by National Geographic

A Scottish pilgrimage trail "beloved" by devout followers and ramblers alike has been named one of the best in the UK by National Geographic.

The trail was named alongside sacred spots across the country, including the Golden Valley Pilgrim Way in Hertfordshire and The Old Way across Southern England.

Introducing the list, the magazine said that despite the UK becoming one of the most secular countries in the world, it is leading the way in "revitalising" pilgrim trails.

See why this pilgrimage trail in Scotland was named one of the best in the UK by National Geographic

St Cuthbert entered manastic life at Melrose in ScotlandSt. Cuthbert entered monastic life at Melrose in Scotland (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) St. Cuthbert's Way, which runs between the Scottish Borders and Northumberland in England, was the only pilgrimage route in Scotland named by National Geographic.

Discussing the 62-mile long trail, the publication said it traces its roots back to its seventh-century namesake, St. Cuthbert.

Running from Melrose, where the saint entered monastic life, to Holy Island, his eventual resting place, the route is said to be the "godfather" of modern British pilgrimages.

St Cuthbert’s Way runs from Melrose in Scotland to Holy Island in EnglandSt. Cuthbert’s Way runs from Melrose in Scotland to Holy Island in England (Image: Getty Images)


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The trail officially opened in 1996 and has become "beloved" by both pilgrims and seasoned ramblers, who come here for its manageable distance, wild and varied terrain, lower-key status and historic significance.

En route lies a number of notable sights, including the "distinctive" Eildon Hills, the "burbling" River Tweed, ruined abbeys, the Cheviots and St Cuthbert’s Cave — where the saint's body was apparently hidden in 875 during the height of the Viking Age.

The trail is also said to offer some of the "finest finales" anywhere in the UK, with the walk to Holy Island, either across the causeway or over the tidal mudflats, offering stunning views.

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