Visit County Durham is inviting you to follow in the footsteps of saints and take a pilgrim's trek across North East England.

The Northern Saints Trails are a new network of six long-distance paths across North East England, with five of the six trails beginning (or ending) in Durham City.

Inspired by ancient pilgrimage routes, the trails bring the fascinating stories of the region's Saints to life, set against a backdrop of the very best of the region's attractions, landscapes, places to eat and drink and accommodation.

The six routes reflect the saint's journeys and their connections with the North East and recognise the significance of Durham Cathedral as a destination for pilgrims for centuries - from connections with St Cuthbert, who was brought to Durham Cathedral from Lindisfarne by monks in the 9th Century, to the Venerable Bede, regarded as one of the greatest Anglo-Saxon scholars whose shrine has lay in the Galilee Chapel at Durham Cathedral since the 14th Century.

With route options available for all ages and abilities, whether people are looking to take on a walking challenge, get back to nature, discover stunning landscapes, uncover fascinating history, enjoy family time in the great outdoors or focus on wellbeing, they'll be guided by the Northern Saints as they take a step back in time.

If you are interested in a press trip to follow in the footsteps of the saints, please contact sarah.johnson@visitcountydurham.org with details of the media outlet you will be writing for and your availability regarding a trip. Commissioned features only please.

The Northern Saints Trails