A pilgrims' refuge box on stilts standing on the tidal sands of the crossing to Holy Island at sunset

Walk across the sand to Holy Island with Heritage Walks

Small-group guided heritage walks across Northumberland, presented and guided by Ray Biggs. Relaxed, informal, friendly.

We inhabit the present.We await the future.And we can enjoy the past.

Portrait of Ray Biggs, heritage walk guide

Your guide

History is best understood on foot

I'm Ray Biggs. I lead heritage walks across Northumberland — a county with more castles, more battle sites and more quiet, extraordinary places than anywhere else in England.

Walks are half-day experiences of 2–4 hours and 3–6 miles, with a maximum of 15 walkers. I provide meeting and parking details, full guiding, background on the route as we walk, plus a first aid kit.

More about Ray

The walks

The Pilgrims Path to Holy Island walk can be booked online on selected days between April and September. All other routes are by private arrangement. Email me to check availability.

Every scheduled walk is £32 for adults and £12 for children, booked online. All eight routes are listed on the walks page.

See all eight walks

Also available

Walks and experiences made for your group

Reviews

What walkers say

“We were two hours early to our meeting point with Ray. We were impressed Ray was able to amend his plans and meet us just 15 minutes later. We had a fantastic crossing over the sands which felt very spiritual on a blustery evening and Ray ensured our well being and safety were paramount. The next day Ray gave us a fabulous guided tour around Lindisfarne in glorious sunshine, taking in its rich history, fauna and flora. Ray was one of the best guides we have had over the years and would thoroughly recommend him and Heritage Walks.”
Denise, Paul & Di
“Ray was a knowledgeable and entertaining guide. As he led us across the sands to Holy Island we learned so much about early Christianity and the old kings of Northumbria. The scenery is beautiful and the setting was even more atmospheric with the early mist swirling around us. Ray accompanied us on the island and helpfully pointed out further points of interest that we wanted to see.”
Richard & Marie
“So pleased Ray was free to guide us over the sands to Holy Island. In addition to getting us there and back safely, we benefitted from Ray's extensive knowledge of the local history and where to get a great coffee! Ray was great company and we would thoroughly recommend Heritage Walks.”
Jill & Richard

Ready to walk?

Book a scheduled walk online, or email me to arrange a private group walk on a date that suits you.