Heavenfield to Hexham

Wednesday 28th May 2026 - 7 miles / 4 hours 

This walk follows the first section of the Way of Light pilgrimage trail. It starts at the pretty Northumberland village of Wall and climbs to the pilgrimage site of Heavenfield - the site of a battle in 633AD which paved the way for the 'Golden Age of Northumbria'.  We will see some remnants of Hadrian's Wall along the way.  Then we reach the picturesque and isolated chapel of St Oswald and consider the impact of the events that happened here on the spiritual history of the north of England. 

The route is then downhill all the way into the Tyne Valley, via the attractive village of Acomb and medieval church of St John Lee, to reach the historic market town of Hexham and its impressive Abbey, which has a crypt dating back to the seventh century when the church was founded by St Wilfrid.

This journey starts with a short bus ride from Hexham to the start of the walk in Wall.  There is some climbing in the first part of the walk, but the overall distance of this pilgrimage is relatively short.  We finish with time to enjoy some quiet and solitude in Hexham Abbey, and to gather to share some reflections together.   and then explore the town further for those who wish to.  A further option is to stay for the evening service in Hexham Abbey.

Cost: £30 for an individual booking. Further members of a group booking £20 each.  Bring a packed lunch to eat at the start of the walk.

Book here for this pilgrimage