The region-to-region partnership aims to promote the English Way, or Camino Ingles, pilgrimage route and Northern Saints Trails.

Highlighting the connections between Durham and the Camino pilgrimage routes, which lead to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain, is helping to increase the economic benefits and tourism levels across A Coruña, Durham and the wider north east region.

(L-R) Manuel Miras, President of the association of Councils of the Camino Ingles; Ildefonso De La Campa, manager-director, Xacobeo Company, Xunta de Galicia (Galician Government); Bernardo Fernández, presidential deputy, Deputación de Coruña (ACPC); Sue Snowdon, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of County Durham, Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Leader of Durham County Council; and the Revd Canon Charlie Allen, Canon Chancellor at Durham Cathedral (right).

A Coruña is home to Camino de Santiago, one of the most recognised pilgrimage routes in Europe, which attracts more than 200,000 pilgrims every year.

The English Way or Camino Ingles, opened in 2019 and takes pilgrims from Finchale Priory to Durham Cathedral and onto Escomb Church, south of Bishop Auckland and beyond.

The delegation has attended the unveiling of the Camino way marker at Finchale Priory, which recognises the official start of the Camino Ingles walk in England.

They group also visited Durham Cathedral, The Auckland Project and the Faith Museum, with further plans to walk a section of the Camino way from Gainford before their return to Spain.

During the visit, both councils are set to renew their commitment to working together to further develop tourism opportunities between Durham and A Coruña.

Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Leader of Durham County Council, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome representatives from A Coruña to County Durham and showcase our beautiful landscapes and attractions as well as our shared cultural heritage.

“Durham has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries and our shared work will help to preserve and promote this route for centuries to come.

“This collaboration will also build on our successful Northern Saints Trails to help strengthen our position as a destination to make a pilgrimage to. These serve as a great introduction to what the region has to offer visitors on their own modern-day pilgrimage and cement our reputation as the culture county.”

The Way of Light

Hexham Abbey Festival of Music and Arts

From Latin music blended with classical to showstopping jazz, at this festival you can lose yourself in captivating music inside the historic Hexham Abbey. If you haven’t been to a candlelight concert yet, now is your chance. After a good walk, watch vocal ensemble The Marian Consort sing music from the earliest times to the present day surrounded by candles. Note that some concerts require you to book.

When? 26-29 September.

Where? Hexham Abbey, Beaumont Street, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 3NB.

The Way of Life

Space by Luxmuralis

Head to Durham Cathedral, a renowned pilgrimage destination, for the spectacular, immersive art experience Space by artistic collaboration Luxmuralis. Through dazzling light projections combined with a soundscape, you will go on a thrilling journey through outer space. Whilst there, take a moment to reflect on what humans have been able to achieve. Advanced booking is essential.

When? Various evening times 9-13 October.

Where? Durham Cathedral, The Cathedral Office, The College, Durham DH1 3EH

The Way of the Sea

North Tyneside Fireworks Display

End your evening full of excitement at this popular, free firework extravaganza in Whitley Bay. In this lovely coastal location, have a blast on some fairground rides and tuck into some tasty grub whilst there.

When? Fairground rides and refreshments from 6pm, the display starts at 7pm 3 November.

Where? The Links, Whitley Bay NE26 1TQ.

The Angel’s Way

lluminated Sheep Evenings - 'Dreaming of Electric Sheep' - Urban Adventure Finale

Step inside a landmark of Newcastle to see Illuminated Sheep by artist Deepa Mann-Kler. Inside the nave of Newcastle Cathedral, there will be a flock of 30 life-sized sheep. Watch them lit up in bright colours, as you listen to a specially-commissioned soundtrack by Cathal Murphy. The artwork was inspired by the Lindisfarne Gospels. Whilst there, enjoy a tasty refreshment at Café 16, watch short films, and take part in sheep-themed crafts. 

This event will operate on a timed slot basis. You can stay as long as you wish, however the last entry is at 7:45pm and the building will close by 8:30pm. Booking in advance through TicketSource is not compulsory, but spaces for each timed slot are limited. You may have to wait outside the Cathedral for the next available entry on the evening.

When? Various evening times 22-24 October 2024

Where? Newcastle Cathedral, St. Nicholas Sq, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1PF

The Way of Love

Eunice Oliver Routledge: Earthbound

At the coastal town Hartlepool, make a gallery stop to view artwork by Eunice Oliver Routledge. In this exhibition, she takes inspiration from seascapes and landscapes, producing thought-provoking pieces through print and onto canvas.

When? 10am – 5pm Tuesday – Saturday 7 September – 9 November.

Where? Hartlepool Art Gallery, Church Street, TS24 7EQ.

The Way of Learning

National Glass Centre: Guided Tours

As you stroll around Sunderland, pop into the inspiring National Glass Centre and go on a free guided tour. You will get the chance to learn about the history of glass making in Sunderland, explore exhibitions such as People’s Art - which brings together popular art and contemporary craft and you can look at a new display of glass by British artists in the Collection Gallery. At the end of the tour, there will be a short quiz and you may be lucky enough to win a prize!

When? Tours at 11.00 am and 2.30 pm 14-15 September.

Where? National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR6 0GL

Find more great activities to do on your walk by checking out the Northern Saints Trails website.

When William the Conqueror came to the throne, ensuring stability in the North was very challenging. The king introduced a cunning political tactic: the Bishop of Durham would be given additional powers in return for their loyalty. From 1075, they had the ability to not only issue their own coins and levy taxes but also raise an army and establish their own legal court.

Defending the Scottish border was also a major part of the role. The Bishop became a, ‘Prince Bishop’ although this term was not in use until the nineteenth century. As you walk the Northern Saints Trails, you can delve into the past of some mighty Prince Bishops and find sights across Durham where they have left their mark.

Ranulf Flambard - Bishop 1099-1128

Did you know that one of Durham’s favourite photo spots is connected to Bishop Flambard? Under his instruction, Durham’s first stone bridge was built around 1120 – the original Framwellgate Bridge. On your walk, you can take a pause on the newer bridge for fantastic views of Durham City! Flambard was a controversial figure, who was seen as greedy but also a great builder. He was the chief financial administrator for William II.

The king was notorious for imposing large taxes to finance his campaigns abroad and the Bishop was an easy person to blame. The new king, Henry I, accused him of extortion. He became the first prisoner of the Tower of London and the first escapee! It is said he hid rope in a barrel of wine and gave wine to the guards to get them drunk!


Cuthbert Tunstall – Bishop 1530-1559

Make a stop to do a tour of Durham Castle . Here you can find out about the fascinating life of Cuthbert Tunstall, a high-profile Catholic who saw the reign of five Tudor monarchs. He was the son of a northern knight called Sir Thomas Tunstall. Can you spot the family coat of arms in the courtyard? The three combs on the crest represent a family ancestor, who was the barber of William the Conqueror!

Cuthbert was an advisor to Catherine of Aragon during her divorce trials but in the end chose to support Henry VIII, although after his homes were searched for suspicious materials and some of his friends were executed! Inside the castle, you can wander around the intricate Tunstall Chapel and the Tunstall Gallery, named after this Bishop.

Richard Trevor - Bishop 1752 to 1771

Make sure you visit Auckland Palace too. It was once the residence of Prince Bishops such as Bishop Trevor. He was a strong supporter of the Jewish community and was a sponsor of the Jewish Naturalisation Act of 1753, which would give Jewish immigrants the same rights as those born in England. However, the act was repealed in 1755.

To show his sympathy for the Jews, the Bishop bought twelve of the thirteen magnificent paintings of Jacob and His Twelve Sons by Francisco de Zurbarán. The price was just £124 but the collection is now worth £15 million! You can admire them in The Long Dining Room of the palace. There is a facsimile of Benjamin and the original is at The Spanish Gallery .

John Cosin – Bishop 1660 – 1672

At Durham Castle you can also find out about Cosin’s influence. He undertook a major refurbishment of the place and one of his incredible additions was the Black Stairs. Made of oak, it was designed as a flying staircase, meaning it had no vertical supports and its weight was entirely supported by the walls! ⁠Not surprisingly, the staircase started tilting towards the centre and wooden columns were added. The steps were deliberately shallow and wide, reflecting the Bishop’s flamboyant nature. With low steps combined with long robes, Cosin would have appeared to be floating down the stairs.

Spot the carved pineapples! This fruit was rare and exotic in the seventeenth century. Why not go to Cosin’s Library at Palace Green as well? It was founded by the man in 1669 from his private collection and is still in its original building. It is the earliest surviving public library in the North East.

William Van Mildert - Bishop 1826-1836

When you explore Durham Cathedral, which has been a place of pilgrimage since its founding, look out for a marble statue of Van Mildert, the last Prince Bishop. He hosted one of the final grand ceremonial events at Durham Castle in October 1827. Notable guests at the feast in the Great Hall included the Duke of Wellington and author Sir Walter Scott. The Bishop’s major legacy is founding Durham University in 1832. 

Check out the Northern Saints Trails website to find the walking routes, which have connections to the Prince Bishops!

The Way of the Sea

Hauxley Widlife Discovery Centre and Reserve

Nature abounds at this fantastic reserve. There’s a variety of birds to see, from tree sparrow, curlew and bull finch, to reed bunting, coot and moorhen. You may even get the chance to spot red squirrels, stoats and otters. During the summer, you can see amazing flowers, including viper’s bugloss, bloody cranesbill and northern marsh orchid. Take a close look because they attract butterflies such as the common blue and wall brown.

Address: Hauxley Wildlife Discovery Centre and Reserve, Hauxley Ln, Low Hauxley, Northumberland NE65 0JR

Coquet Island

On your walk, admire the view of this island, which is a dedicated seabird reserve. Home to 40,000 breeding seabirds, it is the only place in the UK where roseate terns breed. Puffins, known as, ‘sea parrots’ due to their colourful bills also visit. You can’t set foot on the island but you can see the remarkable creatures on a boat trip.

Address: 1 mile offshore from Amble, Amble, Northumberland NE65 0DQ

The Angel’s Way

Jesmond Dene

This historic park is both very peaceful and picturesque. It is a narrow, wooded valley, which follows the river Ouseburn between South Gosforth and Jesmond Vale. There’s a combination of both native and exotic trees and plenty of wildlife, such as the kingfisher and red squirrel. You will be in awe of the beautiful waterfall.

Address: Jesmond Dene, Newcastle upon Tyne NE7 7DZ



The Way of Light

Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens

Enter the glorious gardens because you have to see the spectacular rhododendrons, which bloom over summer. There’s a lovely rose garden to explore too, which commemorates the Ushaw students that fought and died in World War One. Stroll by animal carvings designed by the award-winning sculptor Tommy Craggs.

Address: Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens, Ushaw Moor, Durham City DH7 9RH

The Way of Learning

Roker

You could be lucky enough to see dolphins on your journey as they are often seen off the coast of Roker. Keep your eyes peeled and bring some binoculars to get an even better view. Dolphins are social mammals which swim together, hunt together and protect each other. A group of dolphins is known as a pod.

Address: Roker Pier, Sunderland SR6 0PL

Cleadon Hills Local Nature Reserve (Windmill Field)

This beautiful trail location, where Cleadon Windmill stands, is of national importance because of the wildflowers. They grow here due to the shallow magnesian limestone soil. During the spring, violets appear, then yellow rockrose and the purple-flowered wild thyme, which scents the air as you walk by it. Next to arrive are the sweetly fragrant ladies bedstraw and the harebell. 

Address: Cleadon Hills Local Nature Reserve, Cleadon Hills Pathway, South Shields NE34 8DZ

The Way of Love

Spion Kop Cemetery Local Nature Reserve

Take a pause on your walk at this tranquil spot by the coast. The cemetery was designed by architect John Dobson in 1856 and made from sand dune and ship ballast. It was created to replace the churchyard of St Hilda’s. The area is a species-rich dune grassland, some of the flora you can see includes pyramidal orchid and thrift. Skylark can be spotted and come with beady eyes to see moss snail.

Address: Spion Kop Cemetery Local Nature Reserve, Hartlepool TS24 0BP

Cassop Vale National Nature Reserve

On this trail, you will come across another wonderful nature reserve. It is considered as one of the best magnesium limestone grassland areas in Durham. The lime-rich soils are the result of the site being a tropical sea around 250 million years ago. The place also has a lake, wetland, woodland and scrub. Some of the species found in this area include fragrant orchid, cowslip, rockrose and the northern brown argus butterfly. 

Some parts have restricted access so check before you visit.

Address: Cassop Vale Nature Reserve, Cassop, County Durham DH6 4RE

The Way of Life

Auckland Castle Deer Park

As well as plenty of intriguing features from an old ice house to an Obelisk, this park is full of animal life. Listen and look for green woodpeckers. Kingfishers are often amongst the trees by the meandering River Gaunless and Trevor Bridge is another key location. To get a glimpse of otters, it is best to come early in the day as they are nocturnal.

Address: Auckland Castle Deer Park, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR
 

For more ways to enjoy nature, make sure you check out the Gardens & Parks.

The Way of Light

Lord Crewe Arms
Situated in the heart of attractive Blanchland, relax in this luxury country hotel. Release your worn-out feet from your walking boots and snuggle down in one of their rooms oozing with cosy charm. No need to worry about the wet weather as you can borrow wellies from the boot room and there is a drying room. Bring your furry friends along for the break too! They will get a bed, bowl, towel and some treats.

Address: Lord Crewe Arms, The Square, Blanchland, Consett DH8 9SP

The Way of Love

Premier Inn Hotel Hartlepool Marina
Along with wonderful marina views, this hotel boasts a very central location. It is less than a 10-minute walk from Hartlepool Station, very close to local attractions and a short distance from bars and restaurants. When you explore the nearby National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool, remember to get a Northern Saints Trails passport stamp!

Address: Premier Inn Hartlepool Marina Hotel, Maritime Ave, Hartlepool TS24 0XZ

The Way of Life

The Gables Pod Camping
Eager to try glamping? Give it a go with The Gables Pod Camping, a winner of TV show Four in a Bed. You can stay in a choice of three Pods which all sleep two adults. As well as bedding and towels, they have ensuite bathrooms with toiletries, a heater and a kitchenette with mini fridge, kettle and microwave. This lush, tucked away site will have you feeling super carefree. Unwind in a wood-fired hot tub, take in the calming heat of the sauna and be pampered with a bookable spa treatment.

Address: The Gables Pod Camping, Three Lane Ends, Escomb, County Durham DL14 7SR

The Way of the Sea

Tynemouth 61 Guest House and Tea Room
In the bustling coastal village of Tynemouth, step into this guest house with a golden lion knocker. There’s a wonderful choice of rooms including some offering sea views. The room Collingwood even has an elegant, period balcony, from where you can see Collingwood Monument. Another bonus is that Tynemouth Priory and Castle is just down the road and you can get a passport stamp there . Over the weekend, spoil yourself with a cake in the tea room!

Address: Tynemouth 61 Guest House and Tea Room, Front St, Tynemouth, North Shields NE30 4BT

The Way of Learning

Roker Hotel
Beach-lovers must choose Roker Hotel. You’ll be right opposite Roker Beach where you can see the captivating Roker Pier and Lighthouse. Built over 170 years ago, the place has seen a number of changes and each of the 43 ensuite rooms is unique. Round off your evening with a delectable meal at the Italian restaurant Antico Roker. 

Address: Roker Hotel, Roker Terrace, Roker, Sunderland SR6

The Angel's Way

Angel View Hotel and Restaurant
The name of this hotel is no coincidence as it is very near the iconic Angel of the North sculpture, designed by Anthony Gormley. Tucked away from the main road, It is a lovely stone building with interior stone archways. Dogs are also welcome here.

Address: Angel View Hotel & Restaurant, Low Eighton Gateshead, NE9 7UB

Check out our other places to stay here and look out for our accommodation reel on Instagram. Walk whatever the season and experience an incredible walking holiday!

The Way of Life

El Castillo

In the heart of Bishop Auckland, be transported to Spain at restaurant El Castillo . Translated into English it means castle and here you can tuck into tasty tapas with a local twist or choose a hearty paella. There are dishes which have vegetables from the historic Walled Garden just up the road and some contain local Weardale Cheese. For dessert, go on a culinary tour as your table can experience the taste of different regions with a Basque Cheesecake, Crema Catalana and Tarte de Santiago.

Address: El Castillo, Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7JF

The Way of Learning

Café Cenno

In the Durham Market Hall head upstairs because you’ll find the wonderful family-run Café Cenno . Start your day of adventure with a fuel-boosting English Breakfast or stop for a pie or quiche at lunch. Don’t forget to try their showstopping homemade cakes and delicious scones.

Address: Mezzanine Level of Durham Market Hall, Durham Market Place DH1 3NJ

The Angel’s Way

Blackfriars Restaurant

After a fun day of exploring, unwind and dine at a place rich in history. Blackfriars Restaurant is set within a 13th-century Dominican friary. The restaurant is the former refectory and thought to be the oldest dining room in the UK! Full of bold British food from local farms and producers, the evening award-winning set and à la carte menus are regularly updated to make the most of seasonal produce.

Address: Blackfriars, Friars Street, Newcastle, NE1 4XN

The Way of the Sea

Trenchers

After doing a great coastal walk, it seems only fitting that you should indulge in some seriously good fish and chips. At Trenchers, Spanish City taste the classic dish right inside the dome. Have an even more memorable night by going on Wednesday, Friday or Saturday when pianist, Mike Waller plays on the grand piano.

Address: Spanish City, Spanish City Plaza, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear NE26 1BG

The Way of Light

Thomas Wright House

Craving a tasty Sunday Lunch? Grab a table at Thomas Wright House in Byers Green village. Think huge Yorkshire Puddings, roasties cooked to perfection and a delectable side of cauliflower cheese. You can choose from a variety of meats and vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

Address: Thomas Wright House, High St, Byers Green DL16 7PF

The Way of Love

Portofino

Located on the Historic Quay right by the National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool is restaurant Portofino . As the name suggests, the menu offers Italian dishes but here you can also feast on Mediterranean and North African cuisines. Whilst you have a mouthwatering risotto or perhaps a warming lamb tagine, enjoy a view of the impressive HMS Trincomalee.

Address: Portofino, Maritime Ave, Hartlepool TS24 0XZ

Check out the Food & Drink section of the Northern Saints Trails website for more fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs.

The Way of Life

The Beast of Binchester
Known to the Romans as Vinovia, the Binchester Roman Fort was founded around 80AD and for a time was one of the largest military installations in Northern Britain. Come with beady eyes as the Beast of Binchester is about! It’s a carving of a headless animal on one of the foundation stones. Could it be a cat or a dog? 

- Address: Binchester Roman Fort, Binchester, Bishop Auckland DL14 8DJ

Bishop Trevor’s Initials
You may not think much about bridges but they have a history. Over the River Gaunless, Trevor’s Bridge was built in 1757 for Bishop Richard Trevor. It is one of several bridges built for him and is the only one to survive intact. Look out for his initials RD (Richard Dunelm) on the north side.

- Address: Auckland Castle Deer Park, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR

The Clock Tower
The Clock Tower, also known as Robinson Arch is a grand entrance gateway and a great place for a photo. A grade I listed building, it was designed by Sir Thomas Robinson for Bishop Richard Trevor in 1760. The clock bell is thought to be even older, dating back to the 12th century.

- Address: Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NJ

The Miner’s Wife
You won’t be alone in Low Burnhall Woods, as some others will be around! Spot ‘The Miner’s Wife’, a willow sculpture, also known as the ‘wicker lady’. Her other half is, ‘The Willow Miner’, a 15ft sculpture which looks out to the beautiful countryside.

- Address: Low Burnhall Woods, South Road, Durham DH1 3TX

The Way of Learning

Cleadon Windmill
As well as glorious views, at the highest point of the Cleadon Hills you’ll find the sailess Cleadon Windmill . It was built in the 1820s but was greatly damaged in a storm and was a target for gunnery practice during the First World War.

- Address: Cleadon Hills Pathway, South Shields NE34 8DZ

Neptune
Take some time in the pretty Durham Market Place and you will find a statue of Neptune holding a trident. It was given to Durham in 1729 by George Bowes MP of Gibside and Strealam, as a symbol of the scheme to link Durham to the sea by improved navigation of the River Wear.  

- Address: Durham Market Place, Durham City DH1 3NJ

Second Sun
The ‘Second Sun’ is a huge sculpture of a sun on a metal tripod by Andrew Small. The aluminium sphere features animated images of the sun by NASA. It commemorates St Bede who calculated the motion of the sun and moon.

- Address: under Wearmouth Bridge, Sunderland SR1 3AH

Anker’s House Museum
The anchorage, now known as the Anker’s House Museum , is a fascinating feature of St Mary and St Cuthbert’s Church. Six religious recluses once lived there in turn from 1380 – 1547. It is a small space where the person would be sealed in. A small window meant food could be passed through and a slit in the wall allowed you to observe Mass. Could you survive living like that?

- Address: St Mary and St Cuthbert’s Church, Church Chare, Chester-le-Street DH3 3QB

The Way of Love

Sanctuary Ring
The rather scary looking creature hanging on the North Door of Durham Cathedral is the Sanctuary Ring, not the Sanctuary Knocker as many people call it. In the Middle Ages, those who had ‘committed a great offence’ could touch it and would be granted sanctuary for 37 days. There is in fact no evidence of a knocking plate so its true and correct name is the Sanctuary Ring. The original version was placed on the door shortly after the cathedral was built and can be found in the Durham Cathedral Museum.

- Address: Durham Cathedral, The Cathedral Office, The College, Durham City DH1 3EH

Carving on St Mary Magdalene Churh, Hart
On the external south wall of the chancel of St Mary Magdalene Church, you will discover a carving of what is thought to be Saint George and the Dragon. Or it could relate to the Clifford Family, who for a time owned the nearby Hart Manor House. Rather than being a carving of a dragon, it may be a wyvern which is on the Clifford family crest. What do you think the carving shows?

- Address: St Mary Magdalene Church, Magdalene Drive, Hart Village, Hartlepool TS27 3AP

Timescale
In Kelloe, you will come across the ‘Timescale’ sculpture by Lorna Green, which reflects the mining history of the village. Notice the magnesium limestone boulders which represent coal and the Davy lamps.

- Address: Located along the Kelloe Way Railway Path in County Durham, near St Helen's Church, Kelloe DH6 4PQ

Gazebo
Inside the tranquil Old Durham Gardens  is a small building called a gazebo. It was originally built in the 17th century in alignment with Durham Cathedral. It has two floors and holds displays.

- Address: Old Durham Gardens, Bent House Lane, Durham, DH1 2RY

The Way of the Sea

Coquet Island
Off the coast of Amble you’ll get views of this fascinating little island. St Cuthbert came here over 1300 years ago. In the spring , around 35,000 seabirds stop on the island to breed, including the very cute puffin. Although you can’t go onto the island you can get a closer view with a boat trip. 

- Address: 1 mile offshore from Amble, Amble, Northumberland, NE65 0DQ

Retail Pods
If you love to browse the shops, then Amble Harbour Village should be next on your list. What look like a set of sheds, are the fun fifteen retail pods. They are independent businesses, selling a variety of products from food and drink to arts and crafts.

- Address: Amble Harbour Village, Leazes Street, Amble, NE65 0FD

Local Heroes
Wander through Ridley Park and pause to look at the ‘Local Heroes’ sculpture. It has three figures of famous local people: Actor Stan Laurel, who in his early career performed at Old Blyth Theatre Royal, Michael Sweeney, a guardsman killed in Afghanistan in 2010 and PC David Rathband who was shot and blinded in 2010 in the course of duty.

- Address: Ridley Park, Wensleydale Terrace, Blyth NE24 3HF

Collingwood Monument
This grade II* listed monument has a statue of the powerful looking Admiral Lord Collingwood. It was built in 1845 by public subscription to commemorate his success at the Battle of Trafalgar with Nelson in 1805. He commanded the Royal Sovereign ship which is where the cannons on the monument come from. 

- Address: Tynemouth, North Shields NE30 4DD

The Way of Light

Eagle Lectern 
The striking eagle lectern at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens was designed by A.W.N. Pugin. It’s inside the spectacular St Cuthbert’s Chapel. The eagle could be symbolism for carrying the word of God to the ends of the Earth.

- Address: St Cuthbert’s Chapel, Ushaw Historic House Chapels and Gardens Woodland Road, Ushaw Moor, DH7 7DW

Saxon Crypt
A remarkable feature of Hexham Abbey is the saxon crypt. It is the only part of St Wilfrid’s original church that survives intact.  Notice the leaf and berry design on some of the stones, this shows they were originally from an important house.

- Address: Hexham Abbey, Beaumont Street, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 3NB

Bounds
An intriguing area in the grounds of Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens is known as the Bounds. It’s where you’ll see the Bounds Wall with ball courts and racket houses. It was built as part of the original college complex where unusual ball games were played. One of them was Cat (or Katt) which includes elements of squash, golf and baseball.

- Address: Ushaw Historic House Chapels and Gardens Woodland Road, Ushaw Moor, DH7 7DW

Pennypie House
What may look like a simple farmhouse is thought to be the place where pies were once baked and sold to miners for a penny! 

- Address: Pennypie House, Blanchland, near Whitehill Plantation, Northumberland DH8 9UD

The Angel’s Way

Gateshead Millennium Bridge
As you explore Gateshead, you must see the fine Gateshead Millennium Bridge. It is the world’s first and only tilting bridge. The very top of the arch is 50 metres above the River Tyne when in its normal state.

- Address: Gateshead Millennium Bridge, South Shore Road, Gateshead NE8 3BA

Newcastle Cathedral - Reredos
The reredos inside Newcastle Cathedral, an ornamental screen at the back of the High Altar, is an intricate wonder. There are a number of Gospel writers and saints, including St Nicholas. In the centre there is an enthroned Christ.

- Address: Newcastle Cathedral, Nicholas Square, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 1PF

Marks and Spencer Original Penny Bazaar
Located inside Grainger Market, this unusual M&S opened in 1895 and is the last surviving example of a Penny Bazaar version of the shop. It is the world’s smallest M&S! 

- Address: Grainger Market, Grainger Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 5QQ

Seaton Delaval Hall
Take the opportunity to visit the spectacular Seaton Delaval Hall, once home to the Delavals, notorious Georgian partygoers and pranksters. Inside, there is a giant three metre ship in a bottle, a homage to the family’s maritime history and the bottle works in Seaton Sluice, formerly the largest in the UK.

- Address: Seaton Delaval Hall, The Avenue, Seaton Sluice, Whitley Bay NE26 4QR

The Angel’s Way

Family-friendly Crib Service

This December, why not see a classic Christmas Nativity? Make a visit to the grand Newcastle Cathedral for an interactive service where you will meet angels, shepherds and wise men. You will also be able to join in some wonderful carols to really get you in the Christmas mood.

When? 11am – 12pm 23 December

Where? Newcastle Cathedral, St. Nicholas Sq, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1PF

The Nutcracker and I

This special performance of the Nutcraker combines piano music, dance and digital animation. Whilst Alexandra Dariescu plays Tchaikovsky’s iconic music on the grand piano, watch ballerina Imogen-Lily Ash elegantly move across the stage alongside digitally-animated characters.

When? Various times on 3 December

Where? The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, St Mary's Square, Gateshead NE8 2JR

The Way of Learning

Yule Magic

Delight in Christmas festivities with Yule Magic at Jarrow Hall. As you sip on warming drinks and tuck into treats, get cosy by the fire listening to ancient folklore tales of winter from the Oak King. You can also take part in the age-old tradition of the Yule Log, have a go at Christmas crafts and make a visit to the Solstice facepainting tent. Don’t forget to explore the Anglo-Saxon farm too!

When? 9 and 10 December 

Where? Jarrow Hall, Church Bank, Jarrow NE32 3DY

Ice Skating    

It’s time to glide! Strap on the skates and feel the adrenaline and thrill as you move across the ice rink. There are plenty of sessions throughout the day to pick the perfect skating time for you: afternoon, twilight and after dark under the stars! That’s just one of the many ways to have some Chrimbo fun at Rainton Arena’s Winter Wonderland. 

When? 4pm – 8pm 24 November – 31 December

Where? Rainton Arena Mercantile Road, Houghton-Le-Spring, DH4 5PH

The Way of Life

Linocut Cards and Glass Bauble Painting for Christmas 

Is your tree full of brilliant baubles? Now’s your chance to design your own! Pop into the Mining Art Gallery to paint a glass bauble. That’s not all, you will also learn how to make your own Christmas cards using lino-cutting techniques. As you get immersed in Christmas creativity, take a moment to bite into a tasty mince pie. Booking is essential.

When? 6 December 2023

Where? Mining Art Gallery, Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NP

AGLOW

See dazzling illuminations at AGLOW, a spectacular light trail in the gardens and grounds of Auckland Castle. Not only will there be the largest Christmas tree in the North of England but also the longest outdoor light tunnel in the country! Be sure to treat yourself along the way with some mulled wine and marshmallows which you will be able to toast on the fire pit. Booking is essential.

When? 22 November - Sunday 31 December 

Where? Auckland Castle, Market Place, Bishop Auckland DL14 7NR

The Way of Light

Hexham Christmas Market 

Whilst the pretty lights among the trees sparkle, feel the buzz and merriment as you browse the many Christmas stalls in the historic market town Hexham.  As well as all the stalls in the Market Place, enjoy meandering your way around the stalls in the priory buildings and main area of Hexham Abbey. Whilst there, take the opportunity to admire the beautiful architecture. 

When? 9am -3.30pm, indoor stalls open from 9.30am 9 December

Where? Hexham Market Place and Hexham Abbey, Beaumont St, Hexham NE46 3NB

Blessing of the Crib and Lighting of the Christmas Tree

Why not visit the splendid Durham Cathedral over the Christmas period? A great service for the family, see the impressive, luscious Christmas tree lit. Take a close look at the nativity scene which will also be blessed.  

When? 3.30pm 10 December 2023

Where? Durham Cathedral, Durham City DH1 3EH

The Way of Love

Christmas Jumper Special 

Put on your favourite Christmas jumper and feel the Christmas joy as you sing Christmas carols inside this charming village church. Then revel in some seasonal nibbles and have a mince pie or two!

When? 6pm – 7.30pm 13 December 2023

Where? St Mary Magdalene Church (Hart Village Church) Magdalene Drive, Hart, County Durham TS27 3AP

A Christmas Carol

Don’t miss this magical performance by the Chapterhouse Theatre Company! They are bringing the classic Dickens tale A Christmas Carol to Durham Cathedral. As Ebenezer Scrooge goes on a journey to learn the true meaning of Christmas, there will be marvellous musical sequences. 

When? 7.30pm 24 November   2pm  , 7.30pm 25 November

Where? Durham Cathedral, Durham City DH1 3EH

The Way of the Sea

Spanish City

Take your Christmas dining to the next level by going to Spanish City. Under the dome with the stunning 30ft Christmas tree in the centre of the room, bite into flavoursome food from the Trenchers festive menu.

When? 22 November – 2 January

Where? Spanish City, Spanish City Plaza, Whitley Bay NE26 1BG

Santa at St Mary’s Lighthouse and Visitor Centre

Santa has decided to soak up the atmosphere by the coast on St Mary’s Island. Visit him in his grotto and make sure your children have been good as Santa has been busy preparing super gifts ! Your group can also go on a free lighthouse tour. Booking is essential.

When? 10.30am-3.30pm 2-3 December; 10.30am-2pm Sat 16 December; 10.30am- 3pm Sun 17 December 

Where? St Mary's Island Causeway, Whitley Bay NE26 4RS

The Life Way Water fountain was gifted to Durham County Council by the organisation Camino, following an agreement with A Coruña Provincial Council in north west Spain. 

Since 2016, Durham County Council’s international team, supported by the authority’s tourism service Visit County Durham, has partnered with representatives from Galicia in Spain to collaborate and explore opportunities for a region-to-region partnership.
 
The two councils agreed to work together to promote each other’s tourism and pilgrimage offer, mainly focusing on the walking routes of the Camino de Santiago, Camino Inglés and the Northern Saints Trails.

Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “It was an honour to welcome the Bishop of Durham and the Archbishop of York to Bishop Auckland. We are grateful for our growing partnership with the A Coruña Provincial Council. It was through this collaboration that the project was agreed, linking the Northern Saints Trail route The Way of Life and the Camino Ingles with the Camino de Santiago".

“We hope that the new drinking fountain will be able to provide refreshment to those travelling through the town, whether it be by those using the heritage walking and cycling routes or those following the Northern Saints Trails".

Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, said: "Water is a blessing, a source of life. This practical water fountain, where folk can fill their water bottles is essential. But what makes this fountain even more special, is that it comes from Spain and is a reminder of a connection with the Camino de Santiago trail. I have walked this a number of times, each of which has refreshed my soul. The pilgrim route here is a reminder to hydrate our souls as well as our bodies.”

Durham County Council installed the fountain outside of the Spanish Gallery in Bishop Auckland Market place, as part of its plans to improve the area around the Market Place through the Future High Streets Fund. 

St Bede

Bede was not only a monk but also a writer, teacher and translator. He is widely considered the greatest scholar of the Anglo-Saxon period! He wrote over sixty books on a variety of topics from the Bible to science, poetry and music. His most famous work, Ecclesiastical History of the English People, is one of the most significant sources on early English history. It is why Bede is referred to as, ‘The Father of English History’. You will find Bede’s tomb in the Galilee Chapel at Durham Cathedral. Don’t forget to visit the Bede Museum at Jarrow Hall where you can find out more about this remarkable figure!

St Hilda

Hilda at first lived a secular life but became a nun in her thirties. She was appointed to be the abbess of the monastery in Hartlepool. St Hilda’s Church in Hartlepool is believed to be on the site where the monastery was located. It stands majestically on Hartlepool Headland and is a must-visit on The Way of Love. Hilda then went on to found the monastery at Whitby. It may seem hard to predict today when Easter is going to be and not surprisingly was confusing centuries ago. It was Hilda’s monastery which hosted the Synod of Whitby in 664, a significant meeting where Christian missionaries gathered to discuss the date. 

St Cuthbert

Seen as the North’s most-loved saint, his life greatly changed in his later teens. He had a vision of St Aidan’s soul being carried to Heaven and was inspired to become a monk. In his later life, St Cuthbert was the Prior of Lindisfarne. He became known for his good deeds, charity to the sick and poor and for his miracles. It sounds like a rather busy life but later St Cuthbert chose to be a hermit and moved to Inner Farne where a hermitage was built.

Nevertheless, despite great reluctance he was appointed as Bishop of Lindisfarne, it is said he was begged to do so by a kneeling King and church leaders. St Cuthbert died in 687 and eleven years later, monks reopened his coffin on Lindisfarne to find it had not decayed! This as well as miracles reported at his grave caused numerous pilgrims to visit.

Today you can visit St Cuthbert’s shrine at Durham Cathedral, which was founded as a place of hospitality and prayer for pilgrims visiting his resting place. At Ushaw, Historic House, Chapels and Gardens you’ll also find St Cuthbert’s Chapel, the Gothic splendour of the room is a sight to behold!

St Oswald

St Oswald had a rough start to life. His father was killed in 616 by Raedwald of East Anglia, helping to place Edwin on the throne. Edwin was in fact the brother of Oswald’s mother - talk about family rivalry! Unfortunately, Oswald and his family were forced into exile and went to the Scottish Kingdom of Dal Riata. He converted to Christianity and became a fervent believer. Learning of the death of Edwin at the hands of Cadwallon, Oswald began to make preparations and gathered support for an army. On the morning before The Battle of Heavenfield, St Oswald set up a wooden cross and knelt down, praying to God for help. It is said that Oswald’s army took Cadwallon by surprise on the day of battle and Oswald became King of Northumbria. Make sure you visit St Oswald’s Church at the site of the battle and spot the wooden cross erected by locals.

St Godric

St Godric lived a varied life. He sailed the waves as a sea merchant trading in Flanders, Denmark and Scotland and even became a captain, making pilgrimages to Rome, Jerusalem and Compostela de Santiago. Inspired by a visit to Inner Farne where St Cuthbert once lived, he decided to transform his life and become a hermit. He settled in Durham around 1112 on the stunning site where you’ll find Finchale Priory. Living a life of unbelievable austerity and penance for his sins, St Godric wore both a hair shirt and metal breast plate. He became a known figure for his holiness and prophetic talents so visitors came to see him. The man even had a flare for music, four songs written by him are the oldest English songs for which the original music survives. 

St Aidan

As King Oswald was a devout Christian, his first action was to send for a Bishop from Iona and it was St Aidan who arrived in Northumbria with twelve other monks. Their mission was to convert people to Christianity. It is Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, where St Aidan established a monastery and it became a centre of Christian learning. The King sponsored Aidan and churches were set up across Northumbria. Aidan walked as he spread the message of Christianity. There is a story that King Oswin gave Aidan a horse to help him travel from place to place but Aidan was a charitable figure and gave the horse away to a beggar! Bede described Aidan as, “a man of remarkable gentleness, goodness and moderation, zealous for God“. 

St Wilfrid

Wilfrid is considered a great saint but also a controversial character. One of the places he studied at was Lindisfarne monastery. It was Wilfrid, who put forward the Roman side of the argument at a meeting of Christian missionaires, named the Synod of Whitby. Oswiu, the Northumbrian King at the time, ruled in favour of the Roman tradition. A respected figure, St Wilfrid worked for years as a church leader. Queen Etheldreda granted Wilfrid the lands of Hexhamshire for a new Benedictine monastery.  Known today as Hexham Abbey, the Saxon crypt and apse still remain of Wilfrid’s monastery. However, Wilfred clashed with King Ecgfrith over a papal decree that he should be given back his post as Bishop of York. he was condemned to imprisonment.  Guards heard him chanting psalms in his cell and even saw an illuminating light, a visit from an angel of the Lord.

These are just some of the many incredible stories you can discover when exploring the Northern Saints Trails. 

Check out our dedicated trails page, for more in-depth information about the fascinating places you can visit on your own pilgrimage.