Lindisfarne Travel Guide

Find out all the information you need to know about visiting Lindisfarne in Northumberland, England - from the best things to do, places to stay, local customs, and more!


Introduction to Lindisfarne

Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, is a small tidal island located off the coast of Northumberland, in North East England. Known for its stunning natural scenery, religious significance, and rich history, Lindisfarne is a popular destination for travelers and pilgrims alike. The island can be accessed via a causeway that is only available during low tide, making for a unique and exciting journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at all the best things to see and do in Lindisfarne, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Lindisfarne

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lindisfarne Priory: Founded in the 7th century, this priory was once the home of Saint Cuthbert and a major religious center.

  • Lindisfarne Castle: This 16th-century castle is perched on a rocky outcrop and offers magnificent views of the island and the surrounding sea.

  • The Lindisfarne Centre: This visitor center provides information on the island’s history, wildlife, and geology, as well as a gift shop and a café.

  • Saint Cuthbert’s Cave: A short hike from the village, the cave is believed to have been a hiding place for the Saint’s body during the Viking raids in the 9th century.

Natural Attractions of Lindisfarne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • St. Aidan’s dunes: These sand dunes stretch along the eastern shores of the island and offer beautiful views of the sea and coastline.

  • Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve: This protected area is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, including seals and otters.

  • Ross Back Sands: A secluded and unspoiled beach, perfect for a picnic, sunbathing, or a peaceful stroll.

  • Lindisfarne Bay: With its turquoise waters and sandy beaches, this bay is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lindisfarne

  • The Lindisfarne Way: This 63-mile long-distance trail starts in Hexham and ends in the village of Bamburgh, passing through Lindisfarne on the way.

  • Coast and Castles Cycle Route: This popular cycling route passes through Northumberland’s stunning coastline, including Lindisfarne Castle.

  • St. Cuthbert’s Way: This 62-mile long-distance trail starts in Melrose, Scotland, and ends in Lindisfarne, following in the footsteps of Saint Cuthbert.

Best Things to Do in Lindisfarne: Activities and Tours

  • Pilgrimage to Lindisfarne Priory: Many people visit Lindisfarne as part of a pilgrimage, following in the footsteps of Saint Cuthbert and other religious figures.

  • Bird watching: Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve is a great spot for bird watching, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the area.

  • Seal watching: You can take a boat tour around the island to see the seals and other wildlife up close.

  • Local festivals and events: Lindisfarne hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Lindisfarne Festival, the Lindisfarne Gospels Exhibition, and the Holy Island Christmas Fair.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lindisfarne

Day Activities
1 Arrive on the island and explore the village, including the Lindisfarne Centre, gift shops, and cafés.
2 Visit Lindisfarne Priory, follow the Pilgrim’s Path, and take a stroll on the beach.
3 Take a boat tour around the island and see the seals and other wildlife.
4 Hike or bike along the Lindisfarne Way and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
5 Visit Lindisfarne Castle and take in the breathtaking views from the top.
6 Relax on the beach, swim in the sea, or try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding.
7 Attend a local festival or event, such as the Lindisfarne Festival or the Holy Island Christmas Fair.

Food and Drink Scene of Lindisfarne

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lindisfarne Oysters: These locally harvested oysters are considered some of the best in the world.

  • Crab and Lobster: Freshly caught crab and lobster are staples of the island’s cuisine, often served in local restaurants and pubs.

  • Stottie Cake: A traditional bread roll, often filled with ham or bacon and eggs.

Local Beverages

  • Lindisfarne Mead: This sweet, honey-based wine has been produced on the island for over 1,300 years.

  • Alnwick Rum: Made with molasses and spices, this dark rum is produced in the nearby town of Alnwick.

  • Local Ale: Lindisfarne has several pubs that serve locally brewed ale, including the popular Lindisfarne Inn.

Where to Stay in Lindisfarne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Lindisfarne Inn: A popular pub and guesthouse, located just outside the village.

  • The Crown and Anchor: A charming bed and breakfast, located in the heart of the village.

  • The Manor House Hotel: A luxury hotel, located on the outskirts of the village, with stunning views of the sea.

  • Camping and Caravanning: There are several campsites and caravan parks on the island, including the popular Glororum Caravan Park.

What to Buy in Lindisfarne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Lindisfarne Gospels: A replica of the famous illuminated manuscript, available at the Lindisfarne Centre gift shop.

  • Local Crafts: Lindisfarne has several shops that sell locally made crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

  • Lindisfarne Mead: This sweet wine is a popular souvenir, available at several shops and pubs on the island.

Local Culture and Customs of Lindisfarne

  • Lindisfarne has a strong religious and cultural heritage, dating back to the 7th century.

  • Visitors are expected to respect the island’s religious significance and observe its quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

  • The island has a strong sense of community, with many residents involved in local crafts, businesses, and events.

Best Time to Visit Lindisfarne

The best time to visit Lindisfarne is in the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is mild and the days are long. However, the island can be busy during this time, so it’s best to book accommodations and tours in advance. Spring and autumn are also good times to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices, but the weather can be unpredictable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lindisfarne

Do:

  • Respect the island’s religious significance and observe its peaceful atmosphere.

  • Take your litter with you and dispose of it properly.

  • Follow the tide times and stay safe on the causeway.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife or their habitats.

  • Take shells, rocks, or other natural souvenirs from the island.

  • Swim on the western side of the island, as there are dangerous currents and rip tides.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lindisfarne

  • Be aware of the tide times and stay safe on the causeway.

  • Watch out for slippery rocks and uneven terrain when hiking or walking.

  • Lock up your bike and other valuables when leaving them unattended.

Health in Lindisfarne

  • Lindisfarne has a small medical center and pharmacy, but for serious medical issues, you may need to travel to the mainland.

  • Be aware of ticks and other insects when hiking in wooded areas.

  • Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen to protect against sunburn.

Getting to Lindisfarne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lindisfarne

  • Newcastle International Airport: The closest airport to Lindisfarne, located about 75 minutes away by car.

  • Edinburgh Airport: Located about 2 hours away by car, this airport offers more international flights than Newcastle.

Bus Stations Near Lindisfarne

  • Berwick-upon-Tweed Bus Station: Located about 20 minutes away by car, this station offers bus services to and from several nearby towns and cities.

  • Alnwick Bus Station: Located about 45 minutes away by car, this station offers bus services to and from Newcastle and other nearby towns.

Other Options

  • Car: Lindisfarne is accessible by car, but visitors are advised to park in the village and walk or take a bus to the other attractions on the island.

  • Train: The closest train station is Berwick-upon-Tweed, located about 30 minutes away by car.

How to Get Around in Lindisfarne

  • Walking: Most of the island’s attractions can be reached on foot, and walking is the best way to fully appreciate the island’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

  • Cycling: Bikes can be rented on the island, and Lindisfarne is a popular spot for cycling enthusiasts.

  • Bus: The island has a small bus service that runs between the village and other parts of the island.

Where to Go Next from Lindisfarne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bamburgh Castle: Located about 20 minutes away by car, this iconic castle is perched on a rocky outcrop and offers stunning views of the Northumberland coastline.

  • The Farne Islands: Located off the coast of Northumberland, these islands are a popular spot for birdwatching and seal watching.

  • Alnwick: A historic market town and the location of Alnwick Castle and Gardens, the home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland.

Conclusion

Lindisfarne is a unique and fascinating destination, with something to offer for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Lindisfarne is sure to leave a lasting impression. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your time on this beautiful and inspiring island.

Lindisfarne Castle Lindisfarne Castle