Top Tips for Walking St Aidan's Way

Walking St Aidan's Way is not just a journey; it's an experience that connects you with nature, history, and spirituality. This scenic route, which stretches approximately 100 miles from Lindisfarne to Durham, offers breathtaking views, charming villages, and a chance to reflect on the life of St Aidan, the founder of the monastery on Lindisfarne. Whether you're a seasoned walker or a novice, this guide will provide you with essential tips to make your journey enjoyable and memorable.

Preparing for Your Walk

Choose the Right Time

Timing is crucial when planning your walk. The best months to walk St Aidan's Way are from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is generally mild, and the days are longer, allowing you to enjoy more daylight hours. However, be prepared for occasional rain, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Gear Up

Having the right gear can make a significant difference in your walking experience. Here’s a checklist of essential items:

• Footwear: Invest in a good pair of walking boots or shoes that provide support and grip. We used Altra Olympus 6 Hike Mid Gore Tex hiking boots. We found them very good, needed the waterproofing and having higher ankles enabled us to stay drier as well. We also used marino toe socks - amazing! Really helped minimise blisters. We had black Crocs for end of day wear. They are also good for use in public showers.

• Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Waterproof jackets and breathable fabrics are recommended. We took a walking day outfit and an evening outfit - that was it. Washed and dried items as required. 1 rainjacket, 1 polar fleece, 2 t shirts, 2 long pants.

• Backpack: A comfortable backpack to carry your essentials, including water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. We tried to keep our packs weight down to minimum.

  - Bev used Osprey Eja 48l Hiking pack

  - Jock carried a Osprey 58l Exos Hiking pack

• Navigation Tools: A map, compass, or GPS device can help you stay on track. We used All Trails and OS Maps.

• Tent: if you are going to camp take a light weight hiking tent, sleeping mat and warm sleeping bag with a liner.

• Basic cooking gear: We took a small hiking gas burner, small pot, plate, mug, cutlery kit and water filter. This enabled us to stop for tea/coffee or soup along the trail in remote areas where you can't access a small village or shop. There are a large number of streams and creeks along the way but as they are in areas used for animal grazing you must filter the water. We used a squeezed water filtration bladder

• Walking Poles - although not absolutely necessary we found them quite helpful. They help preserve energy when you're walking up hills and protect your knees as you walk down hill. I'd recommend taking a pair of light weight foldable poles.

  
  

Physical Preparation

Walking around 450 kms no small feat. To prepare your body, consider the following:

• Training Walks: Start with shorter walks and gradually increase your distance. Aim for at least one long walk each week leading up to your trip.

• Strength Training: Incorporate exercises that strengthen your legs, core, and back to support your walking.

  
  

Understanding the Route

Plan ahead

St Aidan's Way is still developing as a formalised route across the UK. You need to decide how you want to travel. We had a general plan before we started out from Iona but had to adapt as we went along.

We started out camping but then after a few days realised that this wasn't really working for us so we switched to booking into pubs or small B&B's.

We booked three days ahead for our B&B accommodation - this seemed to work for us. Definitely a more expensive way to travel than camping, but we found the option of a warm shower, drying facilities and a comfy bed so worth it!

Staying Safe on the Trail

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

While walking, stay alert to your surroundings. Here are some safety tips:

• Stay on the Path: Straying from the marked path can lead to dangerous situations.

• Watch for Weather Changes: Be prepared for sudden weather changes and know when to seek shelter.

• Travel in Groups: If possible, walk with a companion for added safety.

  
  

Emergency Preparedness

Accidents can happen, so it’s wise to be prepared:

• First-Aid Kit: Carry a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries.

• Emergency Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts and local services.

  
  

Food, shops & services

• Scattered resupply: Some days pass several cafés and shops; others have none. The itinerary notes where you need to carry all your food (e.g. West Linton → Peebles).

• Breakfast strategy: Hotel breakfasts are often generous enough to provide trail snacks (with permission, or using leftover bread/fruit).

• Community stops: Places like Penny Gael Community Hall on Mull or small Co-ops in villages were highlights as well as practical resupply points.

• Eating out: Booking ahead in small towns (e.g. Balmaha, Innerleithen, Lindisfarne) avoids being caught out when pubs or restaurants are full or closed.

  
  

Spiritual / reflective side

• Begin slowly: If you can, give yourself two nights on Iona to settle, worship and “arrive” rather than rushing through.

• Holy places: Iona Abbey, Craig Lodge Family House of Prayer, Melrose Abbey, St Cuthbert’s Cave and Holy Island all offered especially rich moments.

• Simple rituals: Small acts, like leaving a carved stone by the Carsaig waterfall, helped mark the journey in a personal way.

• Community: Conversations with locals, guides and fellow walkers (and even sharing meals with pilgrimage communities) added depth that the route alone can’t provide.

Conclusion

Walking St Aidan's Way is an enriching experience that combines physical activity with spiritual & cultural exploration. By preparing adequately, understanding the route, and staying safe, you can make the most of this incredible journey. Whether you’re seeking solitude, adventure, or a deeper connection with nature, St Aidan's Way offers something for everyone. So lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and embark on this unforgettable pilgrimage. Happy walking!