England

Lindisfarne (Holy Island)

Tidal island off the Northumberland coast, cradle of Celtic Christianity in England and home to the iconic Lindisfarne Castle.

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Lindisfarne (Holy Island)

Part of the England islands map.

Names

English: Lindisfarne; Scottish Gaelic: Lindisfarne; Irish: Lindisfarne; Welsh: Lindisfarne

Geography

Linked to the mainland by a causeway covered at high tide. Twice-daily 'safe crossing times' are published.

Geology

Bedrock: Yoredale Group (Limestone With Subordinate Sandstone And Argillaceous Rocks), Asbian–Yeadonian. Superficial deposits: Blown Sand (Sand(Undifferentiated)). Contains British Geological Survey materials © UKRI 2026, licensed under the BGS Open Data Licence (OGL v3.0). Source: BGS DigMapGB-625 Bedrock & Superficial WMS.

History

St Aidan founded a monastery here in 635 AD. The Lindisfarne Gospels were created here c. 700. Viking raids began in 793.

How to reach it

Drive across the causeway from Beal — check tide tables. No public buses except seasonal services.

Accommodation

A handful of small hotels, B&Bs and self-catering cottages in the village; book ahead.

Nearby and related islands

Sources

Last reviewed: 2026-08-13.