One of the most beautiful tidal islands in the UK, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, is a must-visit for anyone exploring Northumberland. Written by a local, you will discover what to do and see on the island in this ultimate guide to things to do on Holy Island.
If you are visiting Northumberland and driving the Northumberland Coastal route, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne is an absolute must-visit destination along the coast.
Only three miles long and one and a half miles wide, this tiny island with a population of less than three hundred welcomes over half a million visitors annually.
Lying a mile off the Northumberland coast, Holy Island is reached by a causeway. I was born in Northumberland and have many memories of visiting the island as a child and, more recently, during trips to the North East of England.
It is always one of my favourite places to spend a day, particularly during the warmer summer months. The numbers of visitors attracted to the island every year seem to agree with me and it is a popular day trip for locals and tourists alike.
The island is surrounded by beautiful scenery and stunning views of Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands. Also, keep an eye out for some of the local birdlife, flora, and fauna. Seals from the neighbouring Farne Islands can often be spotted bobbing around Lindisfarne’s waters.
Known simply as “Holy Island,” Lindisfarne is famous as one of the centres of early Christianity in England. The Lindisfarne Gospels, produced by monks on the island between 710 and 725, are recognised as masterpieces of medieval art.
Raided by the Vikings in 789, the ransacking of the priory, in which St Cuthbert, the patron saint of Northumbria, had been abbot, was devastating. To protect his remains from further Viking invasions, they were moved to the safety of Durham Cathedral, where they remain.
In this article, you will find information about things to do on Holy Island and top tips to make the most of your day visit (or longer stay on the island)
Things to do in Holy Island
There are many great things to do on Holy Island, enough to keep you busy for most of the day. These are my favourite things to do and see on the island.
Good to know – If you would like to stay on Holy Island for the night or spend a few days relaxing and enjoying the island there are limited accommodation options so it is worth booking before you go. Our recommendations are the Manor House, the Crown and Anchor Inn or if you prefer a holiday home Britannia Cottage. Note – Britannia Cottage is pet-friendly, while the Crown and Anchor Inn has one dog-friendly room.
Explore Lindisfarne Priory and Priory Museum
When visiting Holy Island for the first time, Lindisfarne Priory and Museum is a great place to visit. Here you can learn the full history of the priory, and St Cuthbert will head into the Priory Museum. In the museum, you can also see examples of Anglo-Saxon stonework excavated in the area.
Entry to Lindisfarne Priory is free to English Heritage members.
It is possible to visit Lindisfarne Priory every day during the high season. During the winter months, it is open Saturdays and Sundays only.
The remains of the monastery, built in the 12th century, are worth a wander. Don’t miss the “Rainbow Arch,” which survived the collapse of the tower above it over 200 years ago.
Visit the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre (museum and shop)
Although the famous Lindisfarne Gospels are held in the British Library in London, copies are on touch screens in the Heritage Centre. The touch screens show you 20 pages of the book and its beautiful cover. When you see the intricacies of the work and vibrant colours, it’s incredible to think that they were created over 1600 years ago.
When in the centre, visit the exhibition about the Viking attacks on Holy Island.
Sample some Lindisfarne Mead at St Aiden’s Winery
Pop into the Lindisfarne Mead Shop of St Aidan’s winery and sample some of the many varieties of mead produced on the island. In addition to mead, there is an excellent selection of wines and liqueurs on sale.
Mead was traditionally produced by the monks on Lindisfarne and it is believed this followed the arrival of St Aidan in AD687. Traditionally made from fermented honey diluted with water, this alcoholic fortified wine the Roman influence on Britain can undoubtedly be found in the local area.
Discover Lindisfarne Castle
Northumberland has more castles than any other county in England. Built in 1550 Lindisfarne Castle overlooks the island and the neighbouring coastline with views over to Bamburgh Castle and the Farne Islands. Although Edward Hudson converted the castle into a private holiday home in the early 20th century, the castle now belongs to the National Trust.
Major restoration work was completed after the castle was closed between November 2016 and April 2018.
When visiting Lindisfarne Castle, don’t miss the Gertrude Jekyll Garden, created in 1911.
Also, head to the Lime Kilns on the headland called Castle Point, a little beyond the castle. These are the largest and best-preserved lime kilns in Northumberland.
Opening times will vary due to tides.
Top Tips to make the most of your visit to Holy Island
How to get to Holy Island in Northumberland
Cross the Holy Island Causeway
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a tidal island and can only be reached during times of LOW TIDE. When planning a visit, It is extremely important to consult the tidal information and go from there.
Only plan a trip if you know the causeway is safe to cross. The tide comes in quickly and many cars have been trapped whilst trying to cross to or from the island.
If you are planning a trip to Holy Island as part of a longer Northumberland holiday, I recommend checking the tides and planning the rest of your itinerary around them.
It is best to plan to cross over to Holy Island at the earliest indicated safe time to give yourself enough time to see everything before the tide turns and it is unsafe to return to the mainland. (Unless of course, you wish to stay on the island)
Crossing the causeway is free and the road is tarmac. Speed limits are 60 mph but it is best to take it slow and enjoy the views as you cross over.
Keep an eye on the time and make sure you leave before the tide comes in – there can be a rush of cars especially in the summer when the island is busier so keep this in mind!
It is possible to walk over to Holy Island but it is recommended to only use the solid path alongside the causeway road. Again check the tides and only walk over and back during designated safe times as indicated on the link below.
If you are planning to walk over the sands/mud on the “Pilgrim’s Way” please click the link and read the recommended guidance.
ALWAYS check local weather conditions as these can affect the tides (e.g. high winds)
If you prefer to cycle to the island there is a special cycling route running alongside the causeway road.
Parking options on Holy Island
Main Car Park
There is a huge car park near Holy Island village for all visitors. You will need CASH (coins) for the machine. This caught us out when we visited, and we had to try to find someone who had changed, so make sure you have coins with you.
Display the ticket on your dashboard.
The car park can become extremely busy. Ensure you have enough time to get to your car and off the island when you leave. A lot of traffic can be trying to leave the island and cross the causeway simultaneously.
Keep your ticket, as it can be used in Berwick, Wooler and Seahouses.
Park and Ride
There is a minibus available from the main car park to Holy Island village and castle.
Lindisfarne Castle Bus
When the castle is open, there is also a shuttle bus from the car park to the village and castle. (It is approximately 1 mile from the car park to the castle)
Where to eat and drink on Holy Island
There are several cafés, restaurants, and pubs in the village. The two pubs are the Crown and Anchor and the Ship Inn. The Ship Inn, with its large beer garden, is a firm favourite in summer. Dogs are allowed in the Crown and Anchor’s bar area.
There are also a number of cafes on Holy Island, including the Pilgrims Coffee House.
Book dinner in advance at the Crown and Anchor, the Ship Inn or Manor House Hotel.
Accommodation options on Holy Island
If you are wondering if you can stay on Holy Island, the answer is yes!
There are several types of accommodation available on Lindisfarne, where you can stay and enjoy the peace and quiet of Holy Island after all the day-trippers have left.
If you can’t find accommodation on Holy Island, the Lindisfarne Inn at Beal near Holy Island is highly recommended.
Manor House Hotel
Located only 970 m from Lindisfarne Castle the Manor House Hotel offers free parking and Wifi in public areas. Pets are also allowed on request.
A full English breakfast is also included in most room rates.
The Crown and Anchor Inn
The Crown and Anchor Inn has a restaurant, bar, garden, and free WiFi. The hotel features family rooms.
The units in the hotel are equipped with a kettle. All guest rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV and a hairdryer.
The accommodation offers a continental or buffet breakfast.
Tips for visiting Holy Island
I have been visiting Holy Island since I was a little girl and have spent many years living in Northumberland. These are my top tips to ensure you make the most of your visit to Holy Island.
- Be prepared for all weathers!
Even in summer, the weather can turn chilly on Holy Island. On hot days a sea fret (or mist) can hug the coastline and the temperatures will drop. The north east coast is often breezy and gets its fair share of rain. Pack a raincoat and brolly in case of an unexpected shower!
- For great views head to the Lookout Tower
Built for the coastguard in the 1940s the lookout tower provides panoramic views of the island and Northumberland coast (and on a clear day to the Cheviot hills).
- Wear comfortable shoes
It is important to wear good footwear when you visit. There is a lot of walking and surfaces can be uneven so flat shoes with good grip (and preferably waterproof) are to be recommended.
- Don’t forget the tides!
Keep track of time or risk of being stranded on Holy Island. As I have mentioned throughout the article it is important to keep track of the tides so you leave the island in plenty of time!
- Carry cash!
You will need some cash to pay for parking (and perhaps an ice cream) so make sure to bring some change with you.
Visisting Northumberland – Areas to Explore near Holy Island
There are many beautiful places to visit in the area of Holy Island. These can all be explored if you drive the Northumberland coastal route.
Alnwick offers visitors many options, including a castle, an excellent bookshop housed in an old railway station and a famous poison garden. You can read more about visiting Alnwick in my guide to the town.
Bamburgh Castle, the seaside town of Seahouses and the Farne Islands are just some of the highlights of this area of Northumberland.
Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is also an easy drive (or train ride) away and worth including in your itinerary.