A secluded island village, cut off from the world twice daily, exists within the confines of the UK. Nestled off the Northumbrian coast, this isolated hamlet is often revered as England’s most sacred site.
Situated 13 miles south of Berwick-on-Tweed and 20 miles north of Alnwick, this enchanting village boasts an ancient priory, a grand castle perched on the brink of the rugged coastline, and a plethora of quaint cafes and pubs. To the delight of visitors, seals are frequently spotted along the village shore.
However, twice each day, the village becomes inaccessible to everyone, as the surging high tide engulfs its causeway, severing it from the rest of Northern England’s mainland. This necessitates careful planning for those wishing to visit, ensuring they time their crossing to coincide with safe periods.
The ethereal beauty of Holy Island, also known as Lindisfarne, defies description. As you approach the island village, the stunning vistas and dramatic entrance create the sensation of stepping into a hidden realm, encapsulating the unique allure of this extraordinary location.
England’s most sacred site
Boasting a rich history that stretches back to the 6th century AD, Holy Island was a pivotal centre of Celtic Christianity, under the stewardship of Saints Aidan, Cuthbert, Eadfrith, and Eadberht of Lindisfarne. Originally, the island housed a monastery, which fell during the Viking invasions but was later reborn as a priory following the Norman Conquest of England.
Often hailed as the holiest site in Anglo-Saxon England, Lindisfarne was founded by St. Aidan, an Irish monk from Iona, the epicentre of Scottish Christianity. Invited by King Oswald, St. Aidan introduced Christianity to Northumbria. In 635, he established Lindisfarne Monastery on Holy Island, becoming its first Abbot and Bishop.
The Lindisfarne Gospels, a 7th-century illuminated Latin manuscript created here, now resides in the British Museum.
The 12th-century Lindisfarne Priory, situated across the causeway, was viewed as the birthplace of Christianity during the Anglo-Saxon era. It also served as the former dwelling of St Oswald. Immersed in stunning beauty, this peaceful haven once hosted the esteemed St Cuthbert.
With its profound historical ties, castle and priory ruins, Lindisfarne remains a sacred site and pilgrimage destination for numerous Christians to this day.
Why you should visit
Holy Island is a vibrant community, home to a bustling harbour adorned with shops, hotels and pubs. The island and the mainland offer a wealth of activities to delve into, including bird watching, fishing, golf, painting and photography, all popular pastimes among visitors.
The majestic Lindisfarne Castle, perched atop the rocky volcanic mound known as Beblowe Craig, dominates the island’s skyline. Discovered in 1901 in an impressive state of preservation, it suggests a largely peaceful military history. Today, the National Trust oversees the castle, allowing visitors to marvel at its stunning architecture and panoramic sea views.
In addition to its rich historical tapestry, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne is also a haven for wildlife. Its island status protects tidal mudflats, salt marshes and dunes, which together constitute the Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, reports Chronicle Live.
Bird enthusiasts should keep an eye out for wildfowl in autumn and wading birds during winter on the reserve. Pale-bellied brent geese migrating from Svalbard (Spitsbergen) often choose to winter on Holy Island, while grey seals are frequently seen frolicking in the waters around the island village and sunning themselves on the sands.
Visitors to Lindisfarne can enjoy a warm welcome at one of the island village’s quaint cafes or sample local cuisine in one of the many pubs and restaurants.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
