Private Tour of Holy Island

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, just off the coast of Northumberland, is a true magnet for visitors from far and wide. This bespoke 8 hour tour will lead you through breath-taking areas of beauty as you make your way to this intriguing island. Only accessible via a causeway at low tide twice a day, it was the cradle of English Christianity in Anglo Saxon times and has remained an important site of pilgrimage to this day.

Although any day trip culminates in a visit to the island itself, the journey there is equally stunning: it follows the magnificent coastline of the Northumberland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Lined with impressive castles or castle ruins such as Warkworth, Dunstanburgh or Bamburgh, it also boasts charming fishing villages, the Farne Islands, a seabird haven and miles of sandy beaches.

 

 

Ever since 635, when King Oswald gave the Holy island of Lindisfarne to St. Aidan to establish his monastery, the island has been a place of pilgrimage. The sight of the poles stretching across the sand and mud is one of the most iconic views in Northumberland. Choose to walk rather than drive the route away from the road and follow in the footsteps of our medieval ancestors, for a truly memorable experience.

Taking in more fantastic coastal views of Budle Bay and the island of Lindisfarne on the horizon, the tour continues to Holy Island. An extended stop gives the opportunity to soak up its unique atmosphere, immerse yourself and simply unwind. Visit its many sites such as Lindisfarne Priory, Lindisfarne Castle and Gardens or discover the story behind the Lindisfarne Gospels. Then take a stroll around the natural landscapes of the island, sample some of the local produce or simply enjoy a picnic by the coast.

Just 10 minutes from the coast towards Northumberland’s hinterland the scenery couldn’t be more different. Climbing up into the hills we’ll take in far-reaching views of the coast and the distant Cheviot Hills. Passing Chillingham Castle, allegedly the most haunted in England and some typical stone-built estate villages.

The historic market town of Alnwick on the River Aln is Northumberland’s traditional county town. It’s famous for it’s castle, home to the Dukes of Northumberland for over 700 years dubbed the ‘Windsor of the North’ it has featured in many blockbuster movies. We’ll stop for a perfect picture just outside town.