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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.

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

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.
Bamburgh Bed & Breakfast

Budle Hall B&B and Self-Catering Cottages

Guide Price £130.00 Per Night
Grand Georgian country house B&B one mile from Bamburgh, exclusive camping and two self-catering lodges at Budle and Brada.
Trip Advisor Rating
Bamburgh Glamping

Lucker Mill Shepherd's Huts

Guide Price £100.00 Per Night

Fisherman's Hut (with ensuite) £280 for a 2 night stay inc. bed and breakfast on 31 Dec 2025

Chillingham Self Catering

Stay at Chillingham Castle

Guide Price £490.00 Per week
In the heart of Northumberland, a medieval castle with stunning views of formal gardens and Cheviot Hills. Perfect for architectural and naturalist/historical enthusiast or anyone looking for an unforgettable holiday.
Trip Advisor Rating
Warkworth Caravan & Camping

Walkmill Camping & Caravan Site

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

Waterford

Guide Price £1,547.00 Per week
5 Star Gold Award Luxury New England Style Beach House right on Bamburgh Dunes, 4 Bedrooms (sleeps 7) & Dog Friendly
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.
Northumberland Self Catering Agency

Canine Cottages

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

Camping at Budle Hall

Guide Price £50.00 Per Night
Exclusive wild camping in beautiful field with sea views and walk to beach. Two pitches only, private shower and toilet.

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