Walking-St-Oswalds-Way-HERO-credit-Northumberland-Coast-AONB

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.
 
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 Self Catering Agency

Coquet Cottages

Discover the ultimate collection of luxury dog-friendly and family-friendly self-catering accommodation in Northumberland.
Seahouses Inn

The Bamburgh Castle Inn

When it comes to top seaside locations, the award-winning Bamburgh Castle Inn in Northumberland is hard to beat!
Trip Advisor Rating
Bamburgh Glamping

Lucker Mill Shepherd's Huts

Guide Price £100.00 Per Night

The Woodman's and Shepherd's Hut available - Good Friday 3rd April - Bank Holiday Monday 6th April

Alnmouth Self Catering

South View House

Guide Price £1,652.00 Per week
Stunning seaside apartments with balconies giving gorgeous views of the Northumberland coast. Dog-friendly and ideally located for exploring Alnmouth, Alnwick and beyond.
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.
Northumberland Self Catering Agency

Canine Cottages

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

Slaley Hall

A former Edwardian mansion which offers luxurious accommodation, spa & gym facilities, a 36 hole golf complex, restaurants and event spaces.
Guide Price £111.00 Per Night
Trip Advisor Rating
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

Stay in the know

Subscribe to our newsletter for seasonal highlights, must-see events, and insider tips. Get regular updates on the best things to do, see and experience in England’s most magical county.