Near Holburn and Belford, Northumberland
St Cuthbert’s Cave
Sandstone overhang with monastic associations
Source image
8.7
Wildland
About half an hour for the approach from Holburn, according to the source row
Time
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Cost
Sheltered
Feel
Why it's Wildland
8.7A broad sandstone overhang where, according to local legend, monks sheltered with St Cuthbert’s body after fleeing Lindisfarne.
The isolated stone pillar and heavy sandstone roof make this more than a woodland curiosity. Its setting and monastic legend give a short walk a memorable destination, with a quieter family memorial story written into the surrounding rocks.
Sheltered · Reflective · Secluded · Storied
Find your way
Open mapNear Holburn and Belford, Northumberland
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The experience
Approach through woodland to find an overhanging outcrop rather than a deep cave. Pause outside to take in the roof and its isolated supporting pillar, then look for the Leather family memorials on surrounding sandstone outcrops. Visit Northumberland also records its use as a lambing shed in the mid-19th century: an earthy counterpoint to the saintly story.
What to look for
The isolated pillar beneath the sandstone overhang, the contrast between shaded rock and woodland light, and memorials to the Leather family on nearby outcrops.
The story
St Cuthbert and monastic flight from Lindisfarne; later agricultural use and Leather family memorials
Best time to go
Late spring or autumn, as recommended by the source row
The source row recommends early or late visits in late spring or autumn for softer light and fewer walkers. Paths may be muddy; there is no lighting reported on site.
How long to spend
About half an hour for the approach from Holburn, according to the source row; return time and time at the cave are additional
Perfect for
Walkers · History lovers · Photographers · Woodland lovers
Practical information
Opening & access
A walking stop on St Cuthbert’s Way, in woodland managed by the National Trust. The source row describes a signposted woodland approach from Holburn taking about half an hour. Check current access details before visiting.
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Parking
The source row suggests parking respectfully in Holburn but identifies no designated spaces. Check before visiting.
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Toilets
None on site, according to the source row
Food & drink
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Dogs
Listed as dog-friendly in the source row; livestock may be present in nearby fields. Check current signage for restrictions.
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Accessibility
The source row reports uneven terrain, rock ledges and potentially muddy paths, and marks the site as not wheelchair accessible. It also reports no lighting or mobile signal.
Water
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Gallery
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Around St Cuthbert’s Cave
Within 50 km · approximate straight-line distances