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.

Northumberland Self Catering Agency

Classic Cottages

Stay in one of our VisitEngland accredited luxury cottages in Northumberland.

Embleton Self Catering

Primrose Cottage

The Cottage is perfect for beach lovers, nature and bird watchers, golfers, walkers and experienced paddle boarders and surfers.

Craster Self Catering

Stable Cottage

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

Guide Price £448.00 Per week

Berwick-upon-Tweed Self Catering

Schoolhouse Fenwick

A spacious, south-facing, four bedroom self-catering cottage located close to the Northumberland Coast, Holy Island, Bamburgh and Alnwick. The ground floor is fully accessible, equipped with a profiling bed and ceiling hoist coverage to a large wet room. Available for all to book, all proceeds are reinvested to increase our accessibility

Alnwick Self Catering

Northumberland Cottages Ltd

Northumberland Cottages, luxury properties with fabulous Cheviot Hills views. National Park, walking, cycling, wildlife and star gazing on the doorstep.

Hexham Self Catering

Tarset Tor

Tarset Tor Bunkhouse & Bothy Holidays is self-built and family run, nestling in 5 acres of the scenic National Park.

Kirkwhelpington Bed & Breakfast

Ghouse Bed & Breakfast

Situated in Kirkwhelpington, a perfect place to stay whilst completing the St Oswald's Way Walk or attending the many wedding venues in Otterburn and surrounding areas.

Hexham Self Catering Agency

Wooden Star Cottages

An exclusive collection of Northumbrian handpicked homes managed by local friends Vicky Collingwood and Sam Perkins.

Guide Price £770.00 Per week

Holy Island Self Catering

Eider Duck Cottage

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

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