Holy Island

Originally known as Lindisfarne and often described as "The Jewel of the Northumberland Coast", Holy Island is only accessible across a causeway at low tide. (Follow link in box opposite for safe crossing time information).

In the 7th century it was one of the great seats of Christian learning in Western Europe and was where the beautiful Lindisfarne Gospels were written. Adjacent to the ruins of the Benedictine Priory, destroyed by Henry VIII, is a Visitor Centre commemorating the life of the monks. The stones from the Priory were used to build the unforgettable Lindisfarne Castle.

Holy Island is the end point of the popular St Cuthbert's Way long distance footpath which begins in Melrose in the Scottish borders.

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

As well as its many historic attractions, Holy Island is situated at the heart of the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve. Extensive dunelands, intertidal sand and mud flats, saltmarsh and ancient raised beaches support a wide variety of plant life and attract vast numbers of birds. Large numbers of shorebirds. Bar-Tailed Godwits, Knots and Redshanks can be seen on the extensive mudflats in both spring and autumn whilst fields and gardens on the island gather large numbers of Thrushes and Warblers during migration times, especially autumn. In winter, the mudflats hold large populations of wildfowl including thousands of wigeon and a significant proportion of the world Light-Bellied Brent Goose population. Holy Island is an internationally important area for birds on migration and as winter quarters.

Further information:

National Trust Lindisfarne Castle Webpage

Holy Island of Lindisfarne Website

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