St Oswalds Way is a great route linking the Northumberland Coast with Hadrian's Wall, over sweeping beaches, pretty villages and the quiet countryside. Starting at Holy Island and finishing at Hadrian's Wall, the route has lots of history, dramatic castles and all the best bits of England's best kept secret- Northumberland.
The route starts on the coastal path, along beaches and dunes, then turns inland through rolling countryside and moorlands. If you are a regular walker this route should be within your capability.
Its a walk of two halves – the coastal path is pretty straightforward, then once you turn inland the route follows tracks, paths and lanes along the River Coquet, then southwards over moorlands, forests, and fields.
On the whole the paths are well defined and maintained, but at times the countryside section can encounter some muddy paths, so good footwear is essential.There is a climb of 300m (1000ft ) after Rothbury, and a smaller one of 150m (500ft) between Lindisfarne and Belford. Other than that the route is pretty flat along the coastal section and rolling countryside, with small climbs inland.
The signposting is generally good but the walk passes through some remote countryside so make sure you can read your map.
