St Cuthbert's Cave

Medieval sanctuary where legend, stone, and spirituality converge in remote Northumberland woodland.

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Nestled in the Kyloe Hills near Belford, St Cuthbert's Cave is a natural sandstone outcrop steeped in medieval legend and spiritual significance. This overhanging rock formation, supported by a single natural pillar, is traditionally associated with Saint Cuthbert, the 7th-century Anglo-Saxon monk and hermit. According to legend, the cave sheltered either Cuthbert himself during his hermitic years or the monks of Lindisfarne fleeing Viking raids with their saint's body in 875 AD. Managed by the National Trust since 1981, the site offers a gentle woodland walk through the Northumberland countryside, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a tangible connection to early Christian history.

A brief summary to St Cuthbert's Cave

Belford, Lowick, GB
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 2 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear sturdy footwear with good grip; the woodland path can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. The terrain is gentle but uneven in places.
Bring water and refreshments. There are no facilities at the cave itself, and the walk can take 1–2 hours depending on how far you venture beyond the main site.
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. The woodland canopy creates atmospheric shadows that enhance the cave's mystical character.
Extend your visit by walking uphill beyond the cave to the rocky outcrops and cairns for panoramic views of Bamburgh, Lindisfarne, and the surrounding countryside.
The car park holds only about 10 vehicles, so arrive early during peak season or visit on weekdays to ensure parking availability.

Getting There

By Car

From Belford town centre, travel north on the B6353 toward Holburn. Follow signs for Holburn Grange Farm or the National Trust car park, located on the minor road between the B6353 and B6349. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes from Belford. The dedicated National Trust car park accommodates around 10 vehicles and is free. From the car park, follow the marked trail uphill through fields and woodland to reach the cave, a walk of approximately 20–30 minutes.
Walking from Belford

A scenic but longer option is to walk from Belford town centre to St Cuthbert's Cave via St Cuthbert's Way, a marked long-distance footpath. The full walk covers approximately 5–6 kilometres and takes 1.5–2 hours depending on fitness and pace. The route passes through open countryside and woodland, offering views across the Northumberland landscape. This option requires good fitness and appropriate footwear.
Parking at Swinhoe Farm

An alternative parking option is available near Swinhoe Farm, where limited informal parking is possible just before the farmyard. From here, a circular walking route leads through woodland past Swinhoe Lakes, then across open fields toward the cave. This route takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and offers a more varied landscape experience than the direct National Trust car park route.
Public Transport

Belford is served by regional bus services connecting to Newcastle and other Northumberland towns. From Belford bus station, taxi services or local transport can cover the 3–4 kilometres to the National Trust car park in approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can walk from Belford town centre via St Cuthbert's Way, though this requires 1.5–2 hours and good navigation skills.

St Cuthbert's Cave location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about St Cuthbert's Cave

A Sacred Refuge in Stone

St Cuthbert's Cave stands as one of Northumberland's most evocative historical sites, a natural sanctuary carved from sandstone in the remote Kyloe Hills. The cave itself is formed by a massive overhanging rock approximately 24 metres wide and 3 metres high, supported by a single natural pillar that rises dramatically from the cave floor. This geological formation creates a sheltered chamber deep enough to provide refuge for a small group, with a back wall extending roughly 7 metres from the cave's face. The sheer scale and natural architecture of the outcrop suggest why medieval monks and hermits would have sought shelter within its protective embrace.

The Legend of Saint Cuthbert

Two intertwined narratives define the cave's spiritual significance. The first traces to 875 AD, when Viking raids devastated Lindisfarne monastery. According to the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, Bishop Eardulf and Abbot Eadred fled the island with Saint Cuthbert's body, wandering for seven years across northeast England seeking safety. This cave may have been one of their refuges during this perilous journey. The second tradition holds that Saint Cuthbert himself lived here as an anchorite hermit before his eventual retreat to the Farne Islands, where he spent his final years in solitary contemplation. These stories are not mutually exclusive—the monks may have chosen this cave precisely because of its prior association with the saint, making it a doubly sacred destination.

Medieval and Modern History

By the mid-19th century, the cave's entrance had been enclosed with a stone wall, transforming it into a practical lambing shed for local shepherds. The surrounding woodland and cave were once owned by the Leather family, who designated the area as their family burial ground. In 1936, the site was formally consecrated, and sandstone boulders bearing family memorials still stand before the cave entrance, a poignant reminder of its dual role as both historical monument and private sanctuary. The National Trust acquired the woodlands and cave in 1981, ensuring their preservation and public access for future generations.

The Landscape and Walking Experience

The cave sits within a carefully managed woodland setting that enhances its mystical atmosphere. The approach involves a gentle uphill walk from the National Trust car park through mixed woodland and open fields, with the route clearly marked and accessible to most visitors. The terrain is moderately challenging but not strenuous, with a natural slope that rewards walkers with increasingly expansive views as they ascend. Many visitors extend their visit by continuing uphill beyond the cave to reach rocky outcrops and cairns offering 360-degree panoramas across the Northumberland countryside, with views extending toward Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne Island on clear days.

Spiritual and Archaeological Significance

Beyond its legendary associations, St Cuthbert's Cave represents a tangible link to early medieval Christianity in northern England. Saint Cuthbert himself, a 7th-century bishop and hermit, became the patron saint of Northumbria and remains venerated throughout the region. His reputation for spiritual healing and ascetic devotion made him a figure of profound religious importance, and the cave's connection to him—whether as his former dwelling or as a sanctuary for his relics—imbues the site with genuine spiritual weight. The cave's natural grandeur and isolated woodland setting create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and reflection.

A Hidden Gem of Northumberland

Despite its historical and spiritual importance, St Cuthbert's Cave remains relatively undiscovered compared to more famous Northumbrian attractions. This relative obscurity preserves its character as a place of quiet reverence rather than tourist spectacle. The combination of natural beauty, medieval legend, and accessible woodland walking makes it an ideal destination for those seeking authentic encounters with England's early Christian heritage. Whether approached as a historical pilgrimage, a nature walk, or a spiritual retreat, the cave offers multiple layers of meaning and experience.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker

13.9 km

Explore the unique WWII Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh, a striking hexagonal pillbox guarding Northumberland’s historic coastline.

Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions

14.0 km

Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.

Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions

Berwick Lighthouse

17.8 km

Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.

Coxon's Tower

18.2 km

Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.

Berwick Town Walls

18.3 km

Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.

Berwick Bridge

18.6 km

A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Town Hall

18.6 km

A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.

Royal Tweed Bridge

18.7 km

A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Beadnell Harbour

18.9 km

Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.

Cumberland Bastion

19.0 km

Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.

Broad Shiel

19.0 km

Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.

Royal Border Bridge

19.1 km

Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.

Lord's Mount

19.3 km

Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.

Marjoribanks Monument

21.8 km

A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.

Lamberton Skerrs

25.4 km

Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.

Unmissable attractions to see

Heritage Walks Northumberland

4.7 km

Explore Northumberland’s hidden heritage on scenic guided walks blending history, nature, and local stories in stunning countryside settings.

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

7.7 km

A wild, tidal landscape of mudflats, dunes and saltmarsh, home to wintering birds, seals and rare orchids on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

Lindisfarne Heritage Centre

9.4 km

Explore Holy Island’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits on history, nature, and culture at the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre.

Chillingham Castle

9.4 km

Explore Chillingham Castle’s medieval grandeur and haunted mysteries nestled in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.

Chillingham Castle

9.4 km

Medieval fortress and haunted castle where 800 years of English history come alive in stone and shadow.

Lindisfarne Castle

10.1 km

A dramatic Tudor fortress turned Edwardian retreat, Lindisfarne Castle offers stunning coastal views and historic charm on Northumberland’s iconic Holy Island.

Holy Island

10.3 km

Discover Holy Island, a tidal sanctuary of ancient Christian heritage, stunning coastal beauty, and tranquil village charm off Northumberland’s coast.

Ford & Etal Estates

11.3 km

Explore historic villages, scenic countryside, and warm hospitality at Ford & Etal Estates near Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Lady Waterford Hall

11.4 km

Discover the stunning Pre-Raphaelite murals and Victorian heritage of Lady Waterford Hall, a unique village school turned historic community hub.

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

11.9 km

Discover the inspiring story of Victorian heroine Grace Darling and her daring sea rescue at this intimate museum near Bamburgh Castle.

Bamburgh Castle

12.4 km

Explore Bamburgh Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with royal history, stunning coastal views, and a rich cultural legacy on England’s Northumberland coast.

Etal Castle

13.9 km

Explore Etal Castle, a captivating 14th-century border fortress steeped in history and scenic Northumberland charm.

Gefrin

14.0 km

Explore the ancient royal palace of Northumbria’s Anglo-Saxon kings, where history, culture, and whisky unite in a scenic Northumberland setting.

Duddo Five Stones

15.3 km

Explore the ancient Duddo Five Stones, a mysterious Bronze Age stone circle set amidst Northumberland’s scenic border hills.

Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland

15.8 km

Discover Preston Tower, a medieval pele tower set in scenic Northumberland gardens, perfect for history lovers and unforgettable weddings.

Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland

Essential places to dine

The Black Bull Inn

6.4 km

A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.

Percy Arms Hotel

6.9 km

Charming 3-star country inn in Chatton offering spacious dog-friendly rooms, hearty British cuisine, and a cosy rural atmosphere.

Milan Restaurant

9.8 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.

The Potted Lobster - Bamburgh

12.0 km

Savor fresh, locally sourced seafood in a relaxed, elegant setting with stunning views of Bamburgh Castle and the Northumberland coast.

The Blue Bell Inn

15.1 km

A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.

Insieme Seahouses

16.2 km

Experience generous portions of authentic Italian cuisine with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Seahouses.

The Craster Arms

18.0 km

Historic gastropub and hotel blending medieval heritage with vibrant coastal charm in the heart of Beadnell village.

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

18.0 km

A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.

Limoncello

18.5 km

Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.

Ivy 43

18.5 km

Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Amore Restaurant

18.5 km

Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

18.5 km

A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Audela

18.6 km

Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.

The Landing, Beadnell Bay

18.7 km

Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Landing, Beadnell Bay’s welcoming spot for classic fish and chips and more.

The Bosk

19.0 km

Rustic British cuisine and cozy charm in Alnwick’s tranquil countryside, perfect for relaxed dining and special gatherings.

Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Lindisfarne Inn

6.8 km

Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.

Schooner Inn

16.5 km

A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.

The Radio Rooms

18.0 km

A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.

The Curfew Micropub

18.5 km

A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.

The Barrels

18.6 km

Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.

The Thatch

18.7 km

A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.

Leaping Salmon

18.7 km

A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.

The Joiners Arms

20.2 km

A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.

BEST PUBLIC BAR

22.1 km

A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.

Black Swan Alnwick

25.2 km

Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.

Harry's Bar

25.2 km

A cozy micropub in Alnwick’s historic Narrowgate, offering craft ales, whiskies, and a friendly, quirky atmosphere with a nod to local history.

The Queens Head

25.4 km

A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.

Tanners Arms Alnwick

25.6 km

A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.

The First & Last Inn

27.7 km

Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.

The Sun Inn

30.9 km

A cozy 3-star inn and lively pub in Alnmouth offering local charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Northumberland coast.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

BedRocks

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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.

GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed

18.8 km

Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.

The Royal British Legion

33.2 km

Discover community, camaraderie, and local entertainment at The Royal British Legion in Kelso - a vibrant hub for visitors and locals.

The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club

41.0 km

A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.

The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club

Nothing

48.1 km

Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.

Morven

50.6 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.

Dance Delicious

52.2 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.

Knightrider Discos

52.8 km

Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.

Warehouse Nightclub

56.5 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.

The Indigo Rooms

56.5 km

Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.

The Border Club

58.8 km

Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.

Base Nightclub

59.1 km

Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.

Square One

59.4 km

Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.

Phoenix Club & Bar

72.1 km

Discover the lively spirit of Hexham at Phoenix Club & Bar, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.

Borders Blues club

72.4 km

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Borders Blues Club, where the best of British blues music comes alive in Innerleithen.

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St Cuthbert's Cave

A brief summary to St Cuthbert's Cave

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

By Car

Walking from Belford

Parking at Swinhoe Farm

Public Transport

St Cuthbert's Cave location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of St Cuthbert's Cave

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about St Cuthbert's Cave

A Sacred Refuge in Stone

The Legend of Saint Cuthbert

Medieval and Modern History

The Landscape and Walking Experience

Spiritual and Archaeological Significance

A Hidden Gem of Northumberland

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker

Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions

Berwick Lighthouse

Coxon's Tower

Berwick Town Walls

Berwick Bridge

Town Hall

Royal Tweed Bridge

Beadnell Harbour

Cumberland Bastion

Broad Shiel

Royal Border Bridge

Lord's Mount

Marjoribanks Monument

Lamberton Skerrs

Unmissable attractions to see

Heritage Walks Northumberland

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Lindisfarne Heritage Centre

Chillingham Castle

Chillingham Castle

Lindisfarne Castle

Holy Island

Ford & Etal Estates

Lady Waterford Hall

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

Bamburgh Castle

Etal Castle

Gefrin

Duddo Five Stones

Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland

Essential places to dine

The Black Bull Inn

Percy Arms Hotel

Milan Restaurant

The Potted Lobster - Bamburgh

The Blue Bell Inn

Insieme Seahouses

The Craster Arms

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

Limoncello

Ivy 43

Amore Restaurant

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

Audela

The Landing, Beadnell Bay

The Bosk

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The National Trust Shop

Country House Gifts & Gallery

North Shore Gifts

Farne Gifts

Drift

Raggy Dolls

National Trust Shop

Granny's Keepsakes

No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store

Unique Antiques