The Angel's Way

The Northern Saints Trails are a collection of six long-distance walking trails based on ancient pilgrimage routes. They position the North East as the The Crossroads of British Christianity and bring the fascinating stories of the region’s Saints to life. The trails are set against a backdrop of the very best of the region’s attractions, landscapes, places to eat and drink and accommodation.

The six routes reflect the saint’s journeys and their connections with the North East and also recognise the significance of Durham Cathedral as a destination for pilgrims for centuries - from connections with St Cuthbert, who was brought to Durham Cathedral from Lindisfarne by monks in the 9th Century, to the Venerable Bede, regarded as one of the greatest Anglo-Saxon scholars whose shrine has lay in the Galilee Chapel at Durham Cathedral since the 14th Century.

With route options available for all ages and abilities, whether you are looking to take on a walking challenge, get back to nature, discover stunning landscapes, uncover fascinating history, enjoy family time in the great outdoors or focus on wellbeing, be guided by the Northern Saints as you take a step back in time.

The routes and the Saints

1. The Way of Light – St Cuthbert & St Wilfrid associations
Heavenfield/Hexham to Durham
Distance 45 miles or 72 kilometres

2. The Way of Life – route begins at St Mary’s Well, a symbol of life, also St Cuthbert associations
Gainford to Durham
Distance 29 miles or 47 kilometres

3. The Way of Love – association with St Hilda, and King Canute’s pilgrimage in 1020 as an act of devotion
Durham to Hartlepool.
Distance 28 miles or 45.5 kilometres

4. The Way of Learning – St Bede, one of the greatest historical scholars association
Jarrow to Durham
Distance 38 miles or 61 kilometres

5. The Angel’s Way – Angel of the North, St Cuthbert and St Mary associations
Seaton Sluice to Chester le Street
Distance 30 miles or 48 kilometres

6. The Way of the Sea – St Oswald associations, mostly navigates along the coast and follows England’s Coastal Path, connecting with the Way of Learning at Jarrow
Warkworth to North Shields
Distance 38 miles or 61 kilometres