In praise of Northumbrian Saints

Developing routes which connect travel advisors and tour operators to smaller, independent operators is what we do. So it was thrilling to attend the launch of the Northern Saints Trails as travel trade partner of Visit County Durham, putting a spotlight on places of interest connected to the early Celtic Christian Saints.

Our team worked with cathedrals, abbeys and minsters to develop bespoke experiences for pilgrims and faith tourists – available exclusively through travel trade partners. And we supported local guides to weave together stories for enjoyable full and half days of discovery in the more rural areas of North East England – Northumberland, County Durham and Yorkshire – with the occasional incursion over the Scottish Border – just as the Saints did 1400 years ago.

The routes combine powerful personalities, religious politics, relics, and Viking raids with magnificent buildings, scenic countryside and above all else, faith. These are available as pre-selected itineraries or tailored to customer requirements and visit duration.

Each route section offers highlights, from the Holy Island of Lindisfarne where it all started with St Aidan, to the Shine of St Cuthbert at Durham Cathedral, the writing of Bede the Venerable to abbess and political powerhouse St Hild of Whitby.

If you’re in the market for exciting new off the beaten path touring opportunities, Northumbrian Saints – The Golden Ages could be exactly what you are looking for.