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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.
 
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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Alnwick Glamping

Huts in the Hills

Guide Price £135.00 Per Night
5* luxury accommodation offering tranquility, privacy and magnificent bath views, in the stunning Northumberland National Park.
Hexham Caravan & Camping

Hexham Racecourse Caravan Site

Situated two miles south of Hexham, the site provides an ideal base for exploring the ancient market town.
Holy Island Self Catering

Eider Duck Cottage

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

The Whistle Stop

The Whistle Stop Shepherd's Hut, with outdoor stargazing bath and log burner.
Guide Price £100.00 Per Night
Alnwick Bed & Breakfast

Greycroft

Delightful 6 bedroom Victorian guesthouse. Tastefully furnished. Large walled garden. Conservation area. 2 min walk to Alnwick town centre.
Guide Price £75.00 Per Night
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Craster Caravan & Camping

Proctors Stead Caravan Park

Quiet family-run park. Easy access. Level pitches. EHU. Laundry. WiFi. Superb location for coastal walks. Craster/pub nearby.
Guide Price £24.00 Per Night
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Embleton Self Catering

Heron Cottage

Heron Cottage is set in the heart of Embleton village, walking distance from a number of pubs and The Village Farm Shop.
Guide Price £1,185.00 Per week

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