St Cuthbert's Cave: A Sacred Refuge in Northumberland's Countryside

Discover the tranquil sandstone refuge where Saint Cuthbert’s legacy and Northumberland’s spiritual history converge amidst stunning countryside.

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National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

St Cuthbert's Cave, nestled in the tranquil Kyloe Hills near Belford, Northumberland, is a sandstone overhang steeped in spiritual history. Traditionally linked to Saint Cuthbert, a 7th-century monk and hermit, the cave is believed to have sheltered monks carrying his body during Viking raids or served as his hermitage. Managed by the National Trust, it offers visitors a serene natural setting and a glimpse into early medieval religious life.

A brief summary to National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

Belford, Lowick, GB
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 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 walking shoes for the gentle uphill walk through fields and woodland to the cave.
Visit beyond the cave by continuing uphill to enjoy panoramic views of Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne.
Bring water and refreshments, especially on warm days, as amenities near the cave are limited.
Respect the site’s spiritual significance and natural environment by avoiding graffiti and leaving no trace.

Getting There

Car

Drive to the National Trust car park at Holburn Grange Farm, located on the minor road between the B6353 and B6349. The car park accommodates about 10 vehicles and is free to use. From here, expect a 15-20 minute gentle uphill walk to the cave. Parking can be limited during peak times.
Bus and Walk

Take a regional bus service to Belford town, approximately 5 km from the cave. From Belford, a taxi or a 1-hour walk along rural paths and St Cuthbert’s Way leads to the cave. Bus services may be infrequent, so check schedules in advance.
Walking

For walkers on St Cuthbert’s Way long-distance path, the cave is accessible via a moderate uphill trail through fields and woodland. The walk from Lowick or Belford takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, suitable for those comfortable on uneven terrain.

National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave location weather suitability

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Discover more about National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

Historic Sanctuary of Saint Cuthbert

St Cuthbert's Cave is a natural sandstone formation located in the Kyloe Hills near Belford, Northumberland. This overhanging rock shelter, supported by a natural stone pillar, is historically significant as it is traditionally believed to have been a refuge for monks fleeing Viking invasions in the 9th century. The monks are said to have carried the body of Saint Cuthbert, an Anglo-Saxon monk and bishop renowned for his spiritual healing powers, to safety here around AD 875. Alternatively, some traditions hold that Saint Cuthbert himself lived as a hermit in this cave before moving on to the Farne Islands. These layered histories imbue the site with a profound spiritual resonance.

Natural Setting and Landscape

Set amidst lush woodland and rolling countryside, the cave is part of a peaceful, scenic environment managed by the National Trust since 1981. The site is accessed via a gentle uphill walk through fields and forest, rewarding visitors with panoramic views of Northumberland’s rural landscape, including sights of Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne in the distance. The cave itself measures approximately 24 meters wide and 3 meters high, with a back wall about 7 meters from the entrance, providing shelter sufficient for a small group.

Architectural and Cultural Features

In the mid-19th century, the cave entrance was enclosed by a stone wall and repurposed as a lambing shed. The surrounding land was once owned by the Leather family and served as their burial ground, consecrated in 1936. Memorials to family members remain visible on isolated sandstone outcrops near the cave. The site’s cultural layers reflect a blend of natural history, local heritage, and religious significance, making it a unique landmark in Northumberland.

Visitor Experience and Activities

Visitors can enjoy a tranquil walk along St Cuthbert’s Way, a long-distance footpath that passes near the cave. The area is ideal for nature lovers, with opportunities to spot local wildlife such as grouse and deer. Beyond the cave, further uphill trails lead to rocky outcrops offering spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding hills and coastline. The cave itself, while modest in size, provides a tangible connection to early medieval history and spirituality.

Preservation and Management

The National Trust oversees the conservation of St Cuthbert’s Cave and its woodland setting, ensuring the protection of this heritage site for future generations. The site is freely accessible year-round, with a nearby free car park at Holburn Grange Farm facilitating visitor access. The Trust’s stewardship balances public enjoyment with the preservation of the cave’s natural and historic features.

Legend and Spiritual Legacy

The cave’s enduring legend centers on Saint Cuthbert’s life and the monks’ perilous journey during the Danish raids. These stories highlight themes of refuge, faith, and resilience, contributing to the cave’s status as a spiritual landmark. Whether as a hermitage or a sanctuary for sacred relics, St Cuthbert’s Cave remains a symbol of Northumberland’s rich religious heritage and its landscape’s mystical allure.

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

18.7 km

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 Sacred Refuge in Northumberland's Countryside

A brief summary to National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

Local tips

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

Getting There

Car

Bus and Walk

Walking

National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

Historic Sanctuary of Saint Cuthbert

Natural Setting and Landscape

Architectural and Cultural Features

Visitor Experience and Activities

Preservation and Management

Legend and Spiritual Legacy

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

Bijoux