Lindisfarne
NORTHUMBERLAND
A mile from the Northumbrian mainland, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne is a windswept haven with a rich history of religion, refuge and raids. Reached by a causeway that disappears beneath the sea twice a day, it’s an ideal place to be marooned if you enjoy exploring sand dunes and medieval ruins. Pilgrims come to celebrate at Easter, singing hymns and sea shanties.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO Walking is an instinctive activity on this three-milelong isle. Start at the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, then head north to discover coves and secret inlets. Routes are well marked (lindisfarne.org.uk). Organise a guided tour with Footsteps in Northumberland to follow paths previously trodden by virtuous saints and dastardly Vikings (from £10; footsteps northumberland.co.uk). Learn more about Holy Island’s history at The Lindisfarne Centre (lindisfarnecentre.org), before visiting Lindisfarne Castle, a restored Tudor fortress that appears to have sprouted from the craggy rocks (nationaltrust. org.uk). Islanders are outnumbered by the wildlife that seeks sanctuary here – there are seals in the shallows and oystercatchers in the air – but keep an eye on the horizon because whales and dolphins could be swimming in the distant waves.
WHERE TO STAY The Manor House Hotel overlooks the harbour and castle. Book the deluxe sea-view room with a four-poster bed (B&B from £171; manorhouseholyisland.com). Inland, The Ship Inn is an 18th-century free house offering doubles and a full English (from £125; theshipinn-holyisland.co.uk). Turn to page 100 to read about the Northern Cross Pilgrimage to Holy Island.