A 62-mile route off the Northumberland coast has been revealed as one of the best travel experiences in the world.
St Cuthbert’s Way, which culminates on Holy Island, one of Northumberland’s most iconic destinations, has been featured in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2027 list.
The route takes visitors through the rolling landscapes of the Scottish Borders and Northumberland.
Lonely Planet’s annual list highlights 50 destinations and experiences worldwide, selected by its global network of travel experts.
St Cuthbert’s Way appears alongside international locations such as Ireland’s Killary Fjord, France’s Route Napoléon, and India’s Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Andrew Fox, chair of Visit Northumberland, said: "We are thrilled to see Northumberland featured in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027.
"This recognition shines a global spotlight not only on St Cuthbert’s Way, but on the wider range of world-class experiences that make Northumberland such a distinctive destination.
"Visitors can immerse themselves in spectacular landscapes, rich history and heritage, outstanding local food and drink, wildlife and nature experiences, cycling adventures and the unique tradition of pilgrimage, including the iconic crossing to Holy Island."
Councillor Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: "This is fantastic news for Northumberland and a real tribute to everything our county offers visitors.
"Alongside St Cuthbert's Way, we are home to some of the UK's most celebrated walking landscapes, from the Northumberland Coast Path, which recently marked its 20th anniversary, to Hadrian's Wall Path and the new Roof of England Walk across the North Pennines National Landscape.
"Global recognition like this brings more visitors to the county, which in turn supports the businesses and communities along these routes that are at the heart of our local economy."
The route forms part of a wider network of Northern Saints-inspired trails across the North East, including St Oswald’s Way.
These trails offer visitors opportunities for reflection, discovery, and immersive walking experiences through some of the region’s most distinctive countryside and coastline.
The recognition from Lonely Planet comes during a period of sustained growth for Northumberland’s visitor economy, which has more than doubled in value over the past decade.
Tourism reached a record £1.58 billion in 2025, with visitor spending rising faster than overall visitor numbers.
Patricia Yates, chief executive of VisitBritain and VisitEngland, said: "It is wonderful to see St Cuthbert’s Way recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the best experiences in the world to enjoy in 2027.
"Britain is blessed with so many breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastlines and remarkable history and heritage that it is fitting that a trail, which effortlessly combines all three, has received such a glowing endorsement by global travel experts.
"With more than one in three international visitors enjoying countryside walks during trips to the North East, and as VisitEngland launches its major domestic coastal campaign, we can’t wait to welcome more people to explore St Cuthbert’s Way and the great tourism businesses along its route."
For more information about the route, visit www.visitnorthumberland.com.
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