A little trip North
Exploring the Northumberland Coast: Seahouses, Bamburgh, and Lindisfarne
On Sunday, we took a breathtaking journey up the Northumberland coast, exploring the charming fishing village of Seahouses, the majestic Bamburgh Castle, and the historic and mystical Holy Island of Lindisfarne. This stretch of coastline is not only stunning but also steeped in history, each location telling a unique story of England’s past.
Seahouses: Gateway to the Farne Islands
Our first stop was Seahouses, a bustling little harbour town known for its strong maritime connections. Historically, it developed as a fishing hub, particularly for herring, earning the nickname “the herring town.” Today, it’s a favourite spot for visitors heading out to the Farne Islands, a renowned wildlife sanctuary home to puffins, seals, and various seabirds. The harbour itself is full of charm, with fishing boats bobbing on the water and the smell of fresh fish and chips filling the air. It is here the RNLI lifeboat station calls home. The boats often rescue ill advised tourists from the causeway crossing to Holy Island.
Bamburgh: A Castle of Legends
From Seahouses, we made our way to the striking Bamburgh Castle, which dominates the coastline with its impressive stature. Perched on a basalt outcrop, this fortress has stood watch over Northumberland for over 1,400 years. Once the seat of the Anglo-Saxon kings of Northumbria, Bamburgh Castle later became a medieval stronghold and played a role in various battles, including skirmishes between England and Scotland.
One of its most famous connections is to Grace Darling, the heroic lighthouse keeper’s daughter who braved stormy seas to rescue shipwrecked sailors in 1838. Today, Bamburgh Castle is open to visitors, offering stunning views over the North Sea and a deep dive into its fascinating past.
Bamburgh is also closely linked to St. Aidan, the Irish monk who played a crucial role in spreading Christianity throughout Northumbria. In 635 AD, King Oswald invited Aidan from Iona to establish a monastery on Lindisfarne, and he frequently visited Bamburgh. Aidan was deeply respected for his humility and devotion, and legend has it that he passed away in Bamburgh, leaning against the wall of a local church. Today, St. Aidan’s Church in Bamburgh stands as a tribute to his legacy, and visitors can see a wooden shrine marking the spot where he is said to have died. Also in in St Aiden’s church is a monument dedicated to Grace Darling. Grace’s tomb can be easily found in the cemetary of this church.
Lindisfarne: The Holy Island
Continuing our journey, we crossed the tidal causeway to Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island. This tidal island is accessible only at low tide, adding an air of mystery and adventure to our visit. Lindisfarne is one of the most significant early Christian sites in England, home to Lindisfarne Priory, founded in 635 AD by Saint Aidan. It was here that the Lindisfarne Gospels, one of the finest examples of medieval illuminated manuscripts, were created.
However, Lindisfarne is also infamous for the Viking raid of 793 AD, often considered the beginning of the Viking Age. The attack on the monastery shocked Christendom and marked a turning point in European history. Today, the ruins of the priory remain a poignant reminder of its sacred past, while Lindisfarne Castle, a 16th-century Tudor fort, offers breathtaking views over the island and the sea beyond.
Additionally, Lindisfarne is deeply connected to St. Cuthbert, one of the most revered saints of the North. Cuthbert was a monk, bishop, and later a hermit, known for his deep spirituality and miracles. After his death in 687 AD, his remains became a focal point of pilgrimage, and his body was later taken on a long journey by monks fleeing Viking raids before finally resting in Durham Cathedral. His legacy remains strong on the island, where visitors can explore his connections to the priory and the spiritual history of Lindisfarne.
Before leaving the island, we couldn't resist picking up some locally made Lindisfarne Mead, a traditional honey-based drink with ties to the monks of the priory, and a bottle of Lindisfarne Gin, infused with botanicals from the island itself.