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.
 
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.
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
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

Hollyhocks

Guide Price £350.00 Per week
Hollyhocks is a traditional 2-bedroom Edwardian end-terrace cottage in the town of Alnwick. It provides comfortable 4-star self-catering accommodation for up to 4 people
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

Cottages in Northumberland

At Cottages in Northumberland, we have over 300 hand-picked holiday cottages in Northumberland, perfect for exploring this idyllic corner of the British Isles.
Hexham Glamping

The Hiddle Hut

Under the darkest skies, immersed within breath-taking views of the countryside, our two-storey, luxury star-gazing cabin is a captivating hideaway.
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
Embleton Self Catering

Primrose Cottage

Book Now using code VND26 to receive 10% off any (min 3 nts) booking placed before 28/02/26

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

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.