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A mini guide to
Holy Island & the causeway coast: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Check the crossing times first
The tide covers the causeway twice a day. Use Northumberland County Council's table and allow 30 minutes extra, as the council advises.
The Pilgrims' Way is different
The road times do not apply to the walking route over the sands. The council says to walk it in daylight, with local knowledge, and to finish before the middle of the safe period.
If you are caught out
Visit Northumberland says not to drive into rising water: wait for the next safe window, and call HM Coastguard if you are stranded on the causeway.
Parking
Visitors park in one of the two island car parks, which charge a small fee; there is no charge to visit the island itself.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Holy Island & the causeway coast?
Holy Island & the causeway coast is in Lindisfarne (Holy Island), England. The tidal island of Lindisfarne, its priory and castle, and the mainland villages by the causeway. Nearby stops and stations include Holy Island causeway, Pilgrims' Way, Bus to Holy Island.
How long do I need in Holy Island & the causeway coast?
At least three hours, according to Visit Northumberland; plan around the tide. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Lindisfarne Priory, Lindisfarne Castle, St Mary the Virgin, Holy Island. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Holy Island causeway (Road over the sands from Beal); Pilgrims' Way (Marked walking route over the sands); Bus to Holy Island (Travelsure, Arriva or Glen Valley buses). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 6 places to eat and drink in and around Holy Island & the causeway coast, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 5 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Holy Island & the causeway coast accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Holy Island & the causeway coast
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Lindisfarne Castle
16th-century fort on a rocky crag, altered by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1901 and now cared for by the National Trust.
St Mary the Virgin, Holy Island
Parish church beside the priory on the site of St Aidan's wooden church of AD 635; restored in 1860.
Gertrude Jekyll's walled garden
Small walled garden laid out by Gertrude Jekyll in 1911, north of the castle and looked after with it by the National Trust.
Lindisfarne (Holy Island)
More areas to explore
Photo credits
- Lindisfarne Priory: Nicholas Mutton, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Lindisfarne Castle: Urbral, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- St Mary the Virgin, Holy Island: David Smith, CC BY 2.0, source
- Gertrude Jekyll's walled garden: Simon Cobb, CC0, source
- Berwick-upon-Tweed: Whatlep, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring Lindisfarne (Holy Island)