Northern Ireland’s camino celebrates 10th anniversary
2025 marks the 10th anniversary of St Patrick’s Way, a walking trail that connects key sites relating to the saint and Christian heritage.
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The Saint Patrick Centre, Downpatrick
The 130km (82-mile) St Patrick’s Way: The Pilgrim Walk stretches from Armagh, the ecclesiastical centre of Ireland, to Downpatrick, where the island’s patron saint is said to be buried.
Passing through some of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular scenic landscapes, the trail gives walkers and pilgrims the chance not only to reflect on the life and influence of St Patrick, but also to connect deeply with the natural world.
The trail was the brainchild of Alan Graham, who was inspired by the Camino de Santiago in Spain and the exploits of the famous Irish explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton. He planned the route and developed it with support from local district councils and Tourism NI.
Starting at the Navan Centre in County Armagh, an ancient site of great historical importance, the route is split into seven sections, some of which can be completed in a day. Section one, Navan Centre to Armagh city, is short but there are many historical and heritage sites to visit in this area including Armagh’s two cathedrals, each called St Patrick’s.
Murlough Bay, St Patrick's Way
From Armagh it’s a picturesque walk through a mixed landscape that includes the Mourne Mountains, the Newry canal towpath, forest trails and the beautiful County Down coastline. The trail also passes through towns and villages which each have their own attractions. Pretty Scarva is known for its award-winning floral displays, Rostrevor is associated with CS Lewis and Narnia, and Newcastle is a vibrant seaside resort.
The connections to St Patrick along the way include the hermit’s cell and an oratory on Slieve Donard, both constructed by St Donard who was an important disciple of St Patrick. The Lecale area, south-east of Strangford Lough, is said to be where Patrick brought his boat ashore and is dotted with churches and holy sites.
The trail ends at Downpatrick Cathedral, a place of Christian worship since the fifth century, and where St Patrick is said to be buried under a large stone slab in front of the building.
Saint Patrick's Way, Downpatrick Cathedral, Downpatrick
Downpatrick is also home to the Saint Patrick Centre, the only permanent exhibition dedicated to St Patrick in the world, where state-of-the-art interactive audio-visual presentations tell the story of Christianity in Ireland.
Walkers can pick up a Pilgrim’s Passport at any of the Visitor Information Centres in the area and collect a stamp at 10 locations along St Patrick’s Way. Those who complete the Passport will get a Certificate of Achievement at the Saint Patrick Centre.