The Farne Islands Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in The Farne Islands, with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to The Farne Islands

The Farne Islands is a group of 28 small islands located off the coast of Northumberland, in North East England. This stunning area is renowned for its abundant wildlife, beautiful coastline, and historic landmarks. The Farne Islands are owned by the National Trust and are accessible to visitors from April to October each year.

List of Places to Visit in The Farne Islands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Cuthbert’s Chapel
  • Grace Darling Museum
  • Lindisfarne Castle

Natural Attractions of The Farne Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bird Watching
  • Seal Watching
  • Boat Tours
  • Beach Walks
  • Scuba Diving

Hiking/Biking Routes of The Farne Islands

St. Cuthbert’s Way

St. Cuthbert’s Way is a 62.5-mile walk that starts in Melrose, Scotland and ends in the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, in England. The route passes through The Farne Islands and is considered one of the most beautiful walks in the UK.

Coast and Castle Cycle Route

The Coast and Castle Cycle Route is a 172-mile journey that starts in Newcastle and finishes in Edinburgh, passing through The Farne Islands along the way.

Best Things to Do in The Farne Islands: Activities and Tours

  • Bird Watching Tours
  • Seal Watching Tours
  • Boat Tours
  • Grace Darling Museum
  • Lindisfarne Castle
  • Scuba Diving

Week-Long Itinerary for The Farne Islands

Day Activities
1 Arrival, Boat Tour, Seal Watching
2 Visit Lindisfarne Castle, Beach Walk
3 Scuba Diving, Grace Darling Museum
4 Bird Watching Tour, St. Cuthbert’s Chapel
5 Coast and Castle Cycle Route
6 Boat Tour, Seal Watching, Beach Walk
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of The Farne Islands

Must-Try Dishes

  • Craster Kippers
  • Lindisfarne Oysters
  • Doddington’s Dairy Ice Cream

Local Beverages

  • Lindisfarne Mead
  • Alnwick Brewery Ale

Where to Stay in The Farne Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hotels

  • The Victoria Hotel
  • The Bamburgh Castle Inn

Hostels

  • YHA The Sill at Hadrian’s Wall
  • Hostelling International Berwick-upon-Tweed

Guesthouses

  • The Farmhouse Guesthouse
  • Farne Island Bed and Breakfast

What to Buy in The Farne Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Lindisfarne Mead
  • Craster Kippers
  • Handmade Pottery

Local Culture and Customs of The Farne Islands

The Farne Islands is steeped in rich history and heritage, from the Lindisfarne Gospels to Grace Darling’s heroic rescue mission.

Best Time to Visit The Farne Islands

The best time to visit The Farne Islands is during the summer months, from April to October when the weather is mild and most attractions are open.

Do’s and Don’ts of The Farne Islands

Do:

  • Plan ahead, book tours and accommodation in advance
  • Respect the wildlife and avoid disturbing nesting birds and seals
  • Dress appropriately and bring sturdy footwear for outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Introduce non-native species to the islands
  • Climb on rocks or cliffs
  • Litter or leave trash behind

Safety and Health

Safety in The Farne Islands

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially near cliffs and rocky terrain
  • Follow safety instructions from tour guides and accommodation providers
  • In case of emergency, call 999 or 112

Health in The Farne Islands

  • Be aware of tick bites when outdoors
  • Watch out for jellyfish in the water and seek medical attention if stung

Getting to The Farne Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near The Farne Islands

  • Newcastle International Airport
  • Edinburgh Airport

Bus Stations Near The Farne Islands

  • Berwick-upon-Tweed Bus Station
  • Alnwick Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train stations are Berwick and Alnmouth
  • Ferry: The nearest ferry terminal is in North Shields

How to Get Around in The Farne Islands

The Farne Islands are best explored on foot or by boat. Walking and cycling are popular options for exploring the coast and countryside, while boat tours are ideal for exploring the wildlife and scenery around the islands.

Where to Go Next from The Farne Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hadrian’s Wall
  • Alnwick Castle and Gardens
  • Durham Cathedral and Castle

Conclusion

The Farne Islands is a unique travel destination that offers a rich cultural and natural experience in one stunning location. From wildlife watching to historic landmarks and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and explore on these beautiful islands. Plan your visit to The Farne Islands today and discover the magic of one of the UK’s hidden gems.