St Cuthbert's Cave

St Cuthbert's Cave, also called Cuddy's Cave, is a sandstone rock shelter near Lowick in Northumberland, northern England. It sits in woodland on the Kyloe Hills above the hamlet of Holburn, between Belford and Lowick, and is a rewarding short stop on the St Cuthbert's Way walking route. Entry is free.

What exactly is St Cuthbert's Cave?

Don't expect a deep underground cavern. Soft sandstone eroded away beneath a tougher layer of rock, leaving a broad overhanging roof held up by a single freestanding pillar. The Northumberland Historic Environment Record (Keys to the Past) gives the shelter's size as roughly 65 ft long and 18 ft wide, with a height of 6 to 10 ft.

Why is it linked to St Cuthbert?

Local tradition ties the place to Cuthbert, the 7th-century monk, hermit and bishop of Lindisfarne. One tale says he stayed here before moving to the Inner Farne island. Another says monks fleeing Lindisfarne with his body sheltered in it. Heritage studies stress that neither link has been proved. What is documented is the area's long connection with the priory on Holy Island: from the early 13th century the Howburn family granted land rights to its monks.

What else is known about its past?

In the mid-19th century the entrance was closed off with a stone wall and the shelter served as a lambing shed. A medieval engraved gem (an intaglio) was found inside in 1883; its present whereabouts are unknown. In 1936 the Leather family consecrated the ground for family burials. Since 1981 the woodland and cave have belonged to the National Trust.

How do you get there?

The easiest option is the free National Trust car park at Holburn Grange. It lies at the end of a cul-de-sac and is not clearly signposted, so check the location on a map beforehand. From there a short path climbs through the trees. This stretch overlaps with St Cuthbert's Way, the long-distance trail linking Melrose in Scotland with Lindisfarne. The Ordnance Survey grid reference is NU 0592 3524.

What will you see?

The overhang and its pillar are impressive, but the outlook is just as much of a draw. From the hillside you look across the Northumberland coastal plain and, on clear days, toward the coast and Lindisfarne. Bring a camera and sturdy shoes, because the path can get muddy.

When should you visit?

The site is open all year with no charge. Dry weeks from late spring through summer, and bright autumn days, give the best visibility. After rain, expect mud and slippery stones. Check current National Trust notices before you go: the rock is fragile, and access to the cave itself has been restricted at times.

How should you behave at the cave?

Sandstone crumbles easily, so avoid climbing on the walls or pillar, never mark the rock and don't light fires. The cave has already suffered from spray-paint vandalism. Take your litter home and respect any barriers or warning signs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee for St Cuthbert's Cave?

No. Access is open, and the National Trust car park at Holburn Grange is free.

How long does a visit take?

Looking at the cave takes a few minutes. Including the walk from the car park and time for the views, plan on about an hour. Walkers passing along St Cuthbert's Way usually stop for less.

Did St Cuthbert really stay here?

That is local tradition. Historians note that the connection is not confirmed by sources, though the legend is centuries old.

Is the cave on the St Cuthbert's Way trail?

Yes. It lies along the route, so it is a popular stop for walkers doing the full trail or just a section.