Holy Island (Lindisfarne)

Holy Island or Lindisfarne (Farne = "retreat" and Lindis = a small tidal river adjacent to the island) to give it its correct title is a fascinating place off the coast of Northumberland in the United Kingdom. Lindisfarne is home to the Lindisfarne monastery - now a ruin - and Lindisfarne Castle, based on a Tudor fort.

The castle is on the end of the island and you walk through the village and beside the beach to reach it. While not particularly large, it is very attractive and in a superb location for defence. Lindisfarne was once a very volatile border area between England and Scotland so security would have been extremely important.

The island is cut off from the mainland by tidal waters twice a day and because of this it is important to time your visit there very carefully. The tide comes in surprisingly quickly and many a visitor has been caught out by this phenomenon. While we were on Holy Island we watched a man trapped on a small outcrop off the main island. The tide caught him unaware and he was trapped there until the waters receded. His family went to the locals for help but no one was interested in attempting any sort of rescue. When you consider the number of visitors who flock to Holy Island annually, and speculate on how many must get into difficulty, its no wonder they are a little tired of coming to the rescue.

The township on Holy Island is basically a fishing village where some attempt is made to cater for tourists. Visitors come and go with the tides.. and I imagine its a much quieter, more peaceful life without the tourists. A very interesting place, steeped in history and well worth a visit.

*If you intend to visit Holy Island (Lindisfarne) don't be disappointed by getting there when the tide is in, download the tide timetable before you go.