Holy Island of Lindisfarne: crossing the sands to the cradle of northern Christianity

There are few journeys in Britain quite like the crossing to Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Twice a day the tide covers the causeway, and the island becomes an island again. Timing your visit is part of the adventure, and it makes arriving feel all the more special.

Lindisfarne's place in history is immense. Around 634 the Irish monk Aidan came from Iona at the invitation of King Oswald and founded a monastery here. St Cuthbert, Northumbria's patron saint, was later Bishop of Lindisfarne, and in 793 Viking raiders attacked the monastery, an event often taken as the start of the Viking Age.

Today English Heritage looks after Lindisfarne Priory, which it calls "among the most atmospheric of England's historic sites". The ruins of the richly decorated priory church include the famous rainbow arch, and the museum displays runic name stones commemorating the island's Anglo-Saxon inhabitants. Families can follow a trail inspired by the animals in the Lindisfarne Gospels.

Perched on the Beblowe crag, Lindisfarne Castle was built around 1550 using stone from the priory and later refurbished in the Arts and Crafts style. It is now cared for by the National Trust.

Nature lovers are in for a treat, too. The island is surrounded by the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, covering around 8,750 acres, where 330 bird species had been recorded by 2016. Wildfowl arrive in autumn, pale-bellied brent geese in winter, and grey seals can be seen all year round.

Walkers can follow in the footsteps of pilgrims along the ancient Pilgrims' Way across the sands, marked by posts and refuge boxes, and St Cuthbert's Way long-distance path ends on the island. Around 151 people lived on the island at the 2021 census, and there are a few hotels, B&Bs and cottages for anyone who wants to stay after the day visitors leave.

Above all, always check the tide times before setting off and never attempt the crossing once the tide has turned. Visit Northumberland suggests allowing at least three hours to see the highlights.

Tide advice and visitor information are on the Visit Northumberland website, and tickets for the priory are available through English Heritage.