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Holy IslandNorthumberland
In many ways, Holy Island or Lindisfarne is where the heart of old Northumbria is kept for safe keeping. Accessible only at low tide, the island is steeped in ancient history.
Lindisfarne was founded when King Oswald of Northumbria, who lived in nearby Bamburgh Castle, asked the monks from Iona to found a monastery there. The first monk to arrive was Corman but he found the local Anglo-Saxons to be a little too barbarian for his taste and difficult to convert. He soon passed the job on to one of his brethren, Aidan. Aidan came to Lindisfarne in 635 and in time became the first Bishop of Northumbria (then known as Bernicia). The priory was eventually ransacked by the Vikings in 793 A.D. and sadly went into decline soon afterwards. (for a more detailed history click HERE)
Being largely dependent on it's tourism, it is fortunate that, despite receiving over 500,000 visitors a year, Holy Island remains blissfully uncommercialised. There are one or two gift shops and some inviting pubs. There is also a museum which includes an internal reproduction of an old fishermen's cottage and many Bed and Breakfast places.
It is possible at low tide to cross the rocks to St Cuthbert's hermitage from the village. Following the main village road to its end brings you to the picturesque and still inhabited Lindisfarne Castle. The Castle is small by normal standards and is open to the public as are the ruins of the priory behind the village. However, Lindisfarne's main appeal is its scenery. Leave the main road passed the Castle for some lovely walks along the sea line. The Island is larger than anyone confining themselves solely to the village would realise and away from the tourist areas the Island is full of atmosphere and an ideal place to recharge your batteries.
How To Get There
Leave the A1 two miles south of Haggerston Castle at the petrol station where a minor road is sign-posted to BEAL. The road leads directly to the causeway.
Lindisfarne During the high season a field in the village is converted to a Pay and Display car park. Parking is also available on the grass verges of the road leading out of the village to the Castle.
CAUTION! Safe Crossing Times Holy Island is connected to the mainland by a metalled causeway which is covered twice in every 24 hour period by the North Sea. For your own safety please read the safe crossing times on the County Council web site which you can find here and use your common sense. Tide times are subject to significant variations throughout each month and in particular during strong winds. Tide tables can only be advisory. Ensure that you observe the warning signs particularly along the road side. The tidal currents can be very strong. Should you become stranded use the refuge boxes provided.
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downtownUK Days Out Holy Island and Lindisfarne
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Farne
Islands Boat Trips Seahouses - fascinating trips for all the family.
You need to visit the islands in mid-spring to sea the bird colonies in
full swing. The seals are there all year. Take a camera.