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.

For more detailed information about routes, services, guidebook and obtaining a certificate for completing the route please visit the official St Oswald's Way website.

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 the fishing village of 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.

Holy Island

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 Birdoswald Roman Fort, the top of Steel Rigg and Housesteads Roman Fort for picture perfect countryside views.

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.

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Recommended

Beal Inn

The Lindisfarne Inn

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

Bamburgh Self Catering

Glebe House and Glebe Cottage

Guide Price £175.00 Per week

Lovely old vicarage on edge of Bamburgh village, renovated to high standard with private gardens and superb views.

Hexham Self Catering

Carraw Luxury Holiday Homes

Guide Price £1,050.00 Per week

Carraw Farm offers luxury self-catering accommodation in a modern and luxurious spacious property – Vesta View and in the converted barn – Shepherds Retreat.

Alnmouth Self Catering

Midwood Cottage - Alnmouth Cottages

Guide Price £588.00 Per week

Midwood Cottage has a fabulous garden, carport parking, bike shed and treehouse. 5 minutes from beach. Hidden Gem Award 2018.

Bingfield Self Catering

The Hytte

Guide Price £553.00 Per week

Close to Hexham and Hadrian's Wall this unique property is fully accessible and provides the ideal country retreat for friends and family "get together's" with the added luxury of a sauna and hot-tub spa.

Alnmouth Self Catering

Midwood Lodge & Cottage

Guide Price £770.00 Per week

Fabulous family accommodation with woodland garden & treehouse. Large lounge with wood burning stove. Beautiful kitchen & south facing conservatory. Private parking.

Northumberland Self Catering Agency

Cottages in Northumberland

At Cottages in Northumberland, we have over 300 hand-picked holiday cottages in Northumberland, perfect for exploring this idyllic corner of the British Isles.

Bamburgh Glamping

Lucker Mill Shepherd's Huts

Guide Price £100.00 Per Night

A new venture for 2020, ideally located near the Northumberland coast. Our original hand-crafted timber shepherd’s huts offer you an alternative to our long-established B&B experience.

Alnwick Hotel

The Cookie Jar

Guide Price £205.00 Per Night

The Cookie Jar, a luxury boutique hotel, adjacent to Alnwick Castle with 11 luxurious bedrooms, bistro and walled garden.

Alnwick Self Catering

Garden Cottage

Guide Price £343.00 Per week

Set in the most scenic countryside with outstanding views of 13thC Edlingham Castle and Victorian viaduct, Garden Cottage sleeps 2 (one double bedroom), no steps, own garden. It is equidistant between Alnwick and Rothbury.

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