St Oswald's Way walking route

Walk St Oswald's Way

Experience the serenity of Holy Island's beaches, be wowed by Warkworth’s castle and hermitage, and discover Northumberland's Roman heritage at Hadrian's Wall. There is something for everyone on the St Oswald's Way walk.

Explore outstanding landscapes

This magnificent route links places associated with its namesake - St Oswald - the King of Northumbria in the early 7th Century. He played a major part in bringing Christianity and peace to his people.

The route follows the stunning Northumberland coast and countryside from Holy Island to Heavenfield and Hadrian’s Wall. You will find castles, coastline, islands, scenic river valleys, hills, attractive villages, forest and farmland - what’s not to love?

The walk is a distance of 97 miles (156 km), but not to worry, if you would like to see some of these fantastic sites and are unable to walk this far, a number of shorter walks have been created for you. Go to the official St Oswald's Way website to explore all of the walks.

St. Oswald’s Way is divided into six sections from north to south:

1. Holy Island to Bamburgh (19 miles / 31 km)
2. Bamburgh to Craster (14 miles / 22 km)
3. Craster to Warkworth (13.5 miles / 21.5 km)
4. Warkworth to Rothbury (18 miles / 29 km)
5. Rothbury to Kirkwhelpington (15 miles / 24 km)
6. Kirkwhelpington to Heavenfield (17.5 miles / 28.5 km)

You can, of course, walk the route in different sections or in the opposite direction.

Bamburgh

A pristine beach, drifting sand dunes, snug eateries tucked away on street corners, and a magnificent castle view everywhere you turn. These are just a few of Bamburgh’s draws, not to mention its coastal setting in the county's AONB.

Warkworth

A high street framed by a 12th-century church and a magnificent castle, artisan shops, and incredible views, it's no wonder why this ancient village is a must-see. Warkworth is small, but it contains a wealth of history just waiting to be discovered.

Craster

The famous smoked kippers popular with the Royal Family, the ruins of what was once a magnificent fortress, local art, a tranquil cove, and bird spotting are just a few of the things that will make your visit to Craster so memorable.

Rothbury

Located in the heart of Northumberland, surrounded by beautiful scenery and rare wildlife, with a bustling high street and regular events programme, there is no doubt why Rothbury appeals to everyone.

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

This mysterious tidal island off Northumberland’s coast becomes inaccessible when the tide washes over its causeway. When it’s safe to cross the causeway, expect to find charming cafes, an ancient priory, and a castle that teeters on the coastline.

Walking Hadrian's Wall

Follow in the footsteps of Romans with our walking routes, and see the best parts of Hadrian’s Wall. Visit Sycamore Gap and picture-perfect countryside, enjoy the views from the top of Steel Rigg and Housesteads.

Stay near St Oswald's Way

Stretching from Holy Island to Heavenfield, you can have your pick of countryside retreats or coastal getaways when basing yourself along this route. Pick a new place every night and hike between holiday homes, or stay in one spot and use it as your base to explore.

Bamburgh Self Catering

Blue Poppy House

A great property for get togethers, dogs and children are also, welcome with plenty of space for all to enjoy.

Craster Self Catering

Dunstan Hall

A Grade II* listed Country Hall, sleeping 18, its the perfect large house for family celebrations or community groups.

£2,506.00 Per week

Holy Island Inn

The Lindisfarne Inn

The nearest mainland inn to Holy Island, The Lindisfarne Inn is open all day for food, drinks, and cosy accommodation.

Craster Self Catering

Hemmel House

New this season - Three en suite bedrooms plus rural views towards the sea and Dunstanburgh Castle on the horizon.

Bamburgh Self Catering

Budle Bay Croft

The Budle Bay Croft Experience – fun to be had by all - inside or out. Our child, couples and pet friendly holidays are centered around you! Luxurious serenity with bags to do on an utterly magical coastal small holding.

£840.00 Per week

Craster Self Catering

Stable Cottage

Converted Georgian stables with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, vaulted reception room and direct rural views.

£448.00 Per week

Rothbury Holiday Home Ownership

Coquetdale Holiday Park

Malcolm, Kathy and Matthew Muckle welcome you to their family run holiday park near the tranquil and beautiful Rothbury.

Bamburgh Self Catering Agency

Coastal Retreats

A hand-picked portfolio of design-led holiday cottages throughout Northumberland's best coastal resorts.

£343.00 Per week

Craster Caravan & Camping

Proctors Stead Caravan Park

Quiet family-run 3-acre park. Easy access. Level, sheltered, spacious pitches. EHU. Some hard stands. Laundry room. WiFi. Superb location for beaches and walking. Craster 1 mile.

£21.00 Per Night

Bamburgh Self Catering

Outchester & Ross Farm Cottages

Enjoy a peaceful break in our spacious, warm, well-equipped 4* and 5* cottages in unspoilt countryside near beaches, walking and cycling routes. Each cottage has private garden. Many cottages walking distance from beach. Also The Ducket, our beautiful 5* 18th century stone tower overlooking Holy Island. Free wifi in all accommodation. Stargazing observatory and extra telescopes available at no extra charge, plus children's play area, canoe and bird watching hide. 3 cottages are dog friendly.

£588.00 Per week

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St Oswald's Way walking route

Explore outstanding landscapes

Bamburgh

Warkworth

Craster

Rothbury

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

Walking Hadrian's Wall