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.

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Recommended

Seahouses Self Catering

Harbourside Cottage

Harbourside is a cosy two bedroomed cottage with breathtaking views overlooking Seahouses Harbour on the scenic Northumberland Coast.

Guide Price £1,050.00 Per week

Seahouses Hostel

A peaceful retreat in a beautiful location on the Northumberland Coast; offering affordable accommodation suitable for groups, cyclists and walkers.

Guide Price £18.00 Per Night

Craster Caravan & Camping

Proctors Stead Caravan Park

Quiet family-run park. Easy access. Level pitches. EHU. Laundry. WiFi. Superb location for coastal walks. Craster/pub nearby.

Guide Price £24.00 Per Night

Craster Self Catering

Craster Tower Penthouse Apartment

Penthouse apartment in historic Craster Tower, above picturesque fishing village. Sleeps eight. Centrally heated. Two bathrooms and additional shower room. Allows up to 2 dogs.

Guide Price £903.00 Per week

Alnmouth Hotel

The Whittling House Hotel

An outstanding characterful hotel, featuring comfortable interiors and roaring fires all set back from stunning Alnmouth beach.

Amble Self Catering

Amble Cast Off

Our homely 3-star holiday cottage near Amble Harbour has a crafts and music bias and an ethical commitment to recycling.

Guide Price £420.00 Per week

Newton-by-the-Sea Self Catering

Seawinds

Former fisherman's cottage, 200 yards from the beach with 1 double room (with en-suite), 1 twin, 2 single rooms, a games room, log fires and a garden.

Guide Price £378.00 Per week

Rothbury Glamping

Westfield House Farm Shepherd's Huts

Luxury Shepherd's Huts and B&B in an idyllic Northumbrian setting in beautiful Upper Coquetdale on the edge of Northumberland National Park.

Guide Price £79.00 Per Night

Holy Island Self Catering

Eider Duck Cottage

18th century cottage in the heart of the village with its own secluded garden, sleeps 4-6.

Seahouses Self Catering

The Laughing Seagull

Stunning two-bedroom cottage, just a short walk from the quaint fishing village of Seahouses & the breathtaking Northumberland coast.

Guide Price £645.00 Per week

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