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 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.

Sort By

Recommended

Bamburgh Self Catering

Outchester & Ross Farm Cottages

Guide Price £588.00 Per week

Enjoy a peaceful break in our spacious, warm, well-equipped 4* and 5* cottages in unspoilt countryside near beaches, walking and cycling routes.

Stocksfield Inn

The Duke of Wellington Inn

Guide Price £90.00 Per Night

The Duke of Wellington Inn is nestled in the Tyne Valley village of Newton just off the A69 near Corbridge.

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.

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.

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.

Warkworth Caravan & Camping

Walkmill Camping & Caravan Site

Stunning, peaceful, secluded site. Spacious grass touring and tent pitches located beside the River Coquet near coastal village of Warkworth.

Seahouses Self Catering

Springhill Farm Holiday Cottages

Guide Price £749.00 Per week

Secluded accommodation nestled on the Northumberland coastline between Seahouses and Bamburgh.

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.

Northumberland Self Catering Agency

Canine Cottages

Canine Cottages, part of Travel Chapter, offers dog-friendly self-catering accommodation across Northumberland.

Alnwick Self Catering

Ilderton Dod Barns

Guide Price £441.00 Per week

Cosy cottage and large barn conversion in the heart of Northumberland National Park. Peaceful surroundings and gorgeous views of the Cheviots.

Make it personal

With endless experiences, it’s impossible to see and do everything Northumberland has to offer. Create a personal profile and we’ll tailor the site to show you the best and most relevant content for you.

Get Started

Before we can create your perfect experience, we need to find out what you're looking for.