Lindisfarne Castle
Castle In Holy Island, Northumberland
A 16th Century, grade I listed castle on Holy Island only accessible from the Northumberland coast at low tide.
Lindisfarne Castle is one of the highlights of the stunningly beautiful Holy Island of Lindisfarne. The island has a recorded history from the 6th Century AD and was an important centre for Celtic Christianity under saints Aidan, Cuthbert and Eadberht. As you may well know, Lindisfarne is a tidal island, so it's good to check safe crossing times before you visit: Holy Island crossing times.
Once you're on the island, there is plenty to see, including Lindisfarne Priory, the famous boat sheds and the stunning beaches, but the castle is essential. It is owned by National Trust and you can find more information about prices and opening times on their website: Lindisfarne Castle
Anyone who knows me, knows I love a visit to this stunning island and have approximately 5,456,690 photos of the castle from every angle, but you'll be glad to know I've only included a small selection here.
The castle must have one of the most dramatic approaches up to it of any Northern castle. It is a very impressive sight standing on top of the steep, whinstone base, known as Beblowe Crag.
It was perfectly positioned here on the highest point on the island, to be able to look right out to sea and over to the mainland. It was originally built in the mid 1550s and took 20 years to complete, with Elizabeth I making improvements to the fort in 1570. When James I came to power in 1603 and combined the English and Scottish thrones, the castle was no longer required for defence. For over 300 years afterwards it was home to temporary garrisons of soldiers from Berwick, however, the castle escaped any major attacks.
It was purchased by Edward Hudson in 1901 and with help from architect Edwin Lutyens, he transformed the castle into what it is today. It was renovated between 1903 and 1906 and many features of the original castle were lost though there are still some features that remain, including the fireplace in the dining room.
Just a short walk over a field from the castle is the beautiful Gertrude Jekyll Garden, which is certainly worth a visit with a vast array of plants of flowers including Poppies, Sweet Peas, Red Hot Pokers and so much more.
Lindisfarne is a fantastic day out with loads to do - check out our list of places to visit here: Holy Island. Make sure you grab some Mead on the way home too.
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How To Find Lindisfarne Castle
Where Is Lindisfarne Castle?
Lat / Long
55.66908, -1.78466
What three words
Where To Park For Lindisfarne Castle?
Lat / Long
55.67474, -1.80063
What three words
There is only one car park on the island, known as Chare Ends. The castle is a 20 minute walk away from the car park.
Contributed by Sandra Clemens
I love the great outdoors and have been a National Trust & English Heritage member for years. I also love going off the beaten track and finding places like Sharp's Folly or Rothley Castle which are hidden gems in Northumberland. My favourite recent hike was climbing Red Screes in the Lake District on a whim, not fully grasping how high 776m was. It was still an achievement to conquer a Wainwright walk and I hope to do more one day.
More Places from Sandra
More Places In Holy Island
Find more fabulous places in Holy Island, Northumberland and if you know of a place we haven't listed, then let us know.
Emmanuel Head Daymark
Lighthouse Holy Island NorthumberlandA white pyramid daymark on the north east Emmanuel Head of Holy Island.
Old Law Beacons On Guile Point
Lighthouse Holy Island NorthumberlandTwo obelisk navigation beacons that when lined up would direct you into Holy Island harbour.
Osborne's Fort
Tower Holy Island NorthumberlandA ruined fort tower on the opposite side of the harbour to Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island.
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