Holy Island, also famous as Lindisfarne, is a tidal island located off the coast of Northumberland in northeastern England. It is famous for its rich Christian heritage. Also, it is the site of a monastery founded by Saint Aidan in the 7th century. The island is also famous for the Lindisfarne Gospels, an illuminated manuscript created by monks on the island in the early 8th century.
Today, Holy Island is a popular travel destination. Here you can visit to explore the ruins of the monastery and the castle, walk along the island’s beaches, and observe the tidal phenomenon that leaves the island cut off from the mainland twice a day.
Visit Lindisfarne Priory:
This priory was founded by Saint Aidan in 635 AD and became one of the most important centers of Christianity in Europe. The ruins of the priory are open to visitors and provide a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural history of the island. You can explore the various parts of the priory, including the church, the cloisters, and the chapter house. The site also has an exhibition area where you can learn more about the history of the priory.
Explore the Castle:
The castle on Holy Island was built in the 16th century to defend against attacks by Scottish raiders. The castle is now open to visitors and offers stunning views of the island and the North Sea. This area also has a museum where you can learn more about the history of the place.
Walk the Pilgrim’s Way:
The Pilgrim’s Way is a marked footpath that takes you around the island’s major historical and spiritual sites. The path starts at the priory and takes you along the coastline to St. Cuthbert’s Island, where you can see the spot where St. Cuthbert’s body was first laid to rest. The path then takes you to the castle and back to the priory.
Visit St. Cuthbert’s Island:
St. Cuthbert’s Island is a small tidal island off the coast of Holy Island. Also, in this place, the body of St. Cuthbert was first laid to rest.. You can visit the island at low tide and see the remains of a chapel.
Take a stroll on the beaches:
Holy Island has several beautiful beaches that are perfect for a stroll or a picnic. Some of the most popular beaches include Lindisfarne Bay, Goswick Sands, and Ross Sands. The beaches offer stunning views of the island and the North Sea.
Attend a church service:
Holy Island has several churches that offer regular services. Attending a service can be a great way to experience the island’s spiritual atmosphere. Some of the churches on the island include the Parish Church of St. Mary, the Methodist Church, and the United Reformed Church.
Visit the Lindisfarne Centre:
The Lindisfarne Centre is a modern visitor center that provides an introduction to the history and culture of Holy Island through exhibits, interactive displays, and films. The center is located near the priory and is a great place to start your booking to visit the island.
Go birdwatching:
Holy Island is an important nesting site for several species of seabirds, including terns and puffins. There are several bird hides on the island where you can observe these birds in their natural habitat. Some of the best places to go birdwatching on the island include the North Shore, the South Shore, and the Gertrude Jekyll Garden.