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.
 
Alnwick Inn

The Hog's Head Inn

At the award-winning Hog’s Head Inn you'll find a contemporary inn serving homemade food all day, and cosy en-suite rooms.
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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.
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Warkworth Self Catering Agency

Coquet Cottages

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

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
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
Wark Self Catering

Warksburn Old Church

Valid for any stay ending before 19 Dec 2025

⚫⚫⚫🟡 | Stay 4 Pay 3. Book a four-night stay and enjoy one night completely free. Offer only valid for stays starting on a Monday.

⚫⚫⚫⚫⚫🟡🟡 | Stay 7 Pay 5. Book a seven-night stay and receive two free nights.

⚫⚫⚫⚫⚫⚫⚫🟡🟡🟡 | Stay 10 Pay 7. Extend your holiday and get three nights free when you book a ten-night stay.

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
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Harbottle Inn

The Star Inn

Three dog-friendly en-suite guest bedrooms with enclosed patio gardens attached to The Star Inn in Harbottle near Rothbury.

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