Walking on Holy Island and the Northumberland Coast

Discover the peace and tranquillity of rural Northumberland and an exploration of one of Britain’s most beautiful and unspoiled coastlines. This is a historic land where saints and kings vied for the loyalty of the people, their legacy still visible today in the many ruins and castles. After exploring Lindisfarne, you head inland into rolling countryside before rejoining the coast. Although the routes are very rewarding, with occasional views along vast sweeping beaches back to Holy Island and on to the Farne Islands, this break is about more than just walking.

There are numerous places of interest which you can visit along the way, including the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, its castle, museum and abbey ruins;  St Cuthbert’s Cave; imposing Bamburgh Castle, and a museum which tells the story of the heroic rescue by a lighthouse keeper’s daughter of the survivors of a shipwreck. You even have the chance to take a boat trip to the Farne Islands on your last day to see seals, migratory puffins and other seabirds up close.

You stay at a small guesthouse in Beal and a converted chapel in Seahouses. Both stays are on a bed-and-breakfast basis, leaving you free to take your pick of the restaurants and inns in the lcoal area.

Guesthouse, Beal

Situated beside St Cuthbert's Way footpath, this guesthouse, with just five light and airy rooms, has been converted from a farm’s smiddy, cow byre, and cartshed. There are great coastal views over Holy Island and north towards Berwick-upon-Tweed. Fresh eggs from the farm's hens are served at breakfast, while the owners will transfer you to and from local eateries for dinner if you do not have your car with you.

Guesthouse, Seahouses

This is a remarkable converted chapel, where many original features have been retained and the charming bedrooms are all named after a different Northumbrian saint. A comfy lounge and delightful breakfast room complete the picture.

For reviews of this trip, see: Reviews of Walking to Holy Island and the Northumberland Coast