Saint Baldred’s Way – a mini pilgrimage

Information

Saint Baldred of Tyninghame lived during the eighth century. Baldred was integral to the Christian mission throughout the lands that would become East Lothian and his legacy is preserved through the many places that still bear his name. This walk through that landscape is led by Harry Glasgow, a student of Ancient & Medieval History (MA) at the University of Edinburgh.

We will begin our walk by ascending Whitekirk hill. Whitekirk was once a centre of pilgrimage in medieval Scotland. We will then proceed towards Seacliff where we will tread the coastal paths that pilgrims would have taken en route to North Berwick. Here we will visit St Baldred’s Cave. Finally, we will strike inland via Auldhame to North Berwick, where we will finish at the Seabird Centre.

The route is over farm tracks, a few sections on the A198, minor roads, paved paths and the option to walk along sand towards the end of the walk.

The walk is close to 16km / 10 miles with 150 metres of ascent and should take roughly 6 hours.

More information
Some of the walk will involve road sections on the A198. Walkers will be briefed on road safety at the beginning of the walk.

The route can become muddy after/during rain. Sturdy footwear such as hiking boots/trail shoes required as there will be mixed terrain and the ascent of a hill, and it is a long distance in general.

Well-behaved and on the lead dogs are welcome. There are some road sections, however, so caution is needed. Only one dog per walker please.

The walk is suitable for persons aged 14+.

There will be no toilet facilities at the start or during the walk.

There will be no café at the start or during the walk.

What to bring
Bring your own packed lunch. Bring a snack as there will be several stops along the way. Bring a waterproof jacket because Scottish weather is unpredictable! Bring plenty of water as there are no places to resupply.

Getting there
Our walk begins outside St Mary’s Church, Whitekirk, EH42 1XS. Whitekirk is served by bus 120 from Dunbar (8.46am) and East Linton (8.59am), or from North Berwick (9.40am). The bus stops are very close to the church on the main A198 road. Parking is limited in Whitekirk but if you do choose to bring your car, please park responsibly. What3Words: ///employers.backtrack.variously