Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

A wild, tidal landscape of mudflats, dunes and saltmarsh, home to wintering birds, seals and rare orchids on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

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Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Stretching across tidal mudflats, saltmarshes and dunes around Holy Island, Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife and a place of quiet beauty. The reserve supports vast flocks of wintering waterfowl, wading birds, and grey seals, while its shifting sands and tides create a constantly changing seascape. A self-guided nature trail leads through dunes and along the shore, offering panoramic views and opportunities to spot rare birds and wildflowers. Respect seasonal access rules and keep to paths to protect this fragile coastal habitat.

A brief summary to Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Lindisfarne, GB
+441289381470
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 9 am-5:15 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5:15 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

Always check the Holy Island tide timetable before visiting; the causeway is covered twice daily and crossing outside safe times is dangerous.
Bring binoculars and a zoom lens; they allow you to observe birds and seals from a respectful distance without disturbing them.
Stick to marked paths and avoid trampling dunes or saltmarsh; this protects fragile plants and ground-nesting birds.
Visit in winter for the best birdwatching, or in spring/summer for wildflowers and breeding birds, but respect seasonal access restrictions.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a short lead to avoid disturbing nesting birds and livestock; do not allow them near seals or in restricted areas.

Getting There

By car and foot

Drive to the mainland side of the Holy Island causeway near Beal; park in the main Holy Island car park and walk the causeway to the island. The walk takes about 20–30 minutes over flat, exposed ground; check tide times carefully as the causeway is covered twice daily. Once on the island, the nature reserve is accessed on foot via paths from the village and harbour.
By public transport and foot

Take a train to Berwick-upon-Tweed or Alnmouth, then a local bus or taxi to the Holy Island causeway car park. From there, walk the causeway to the island (20–30 minutes) and explore the reserve on foot. Bus services are limited, so check timetables in advance, especially outside summer.
By bicycle (to the causeway)

Cycle along the Northumberland Coast Path or National Cycle Route 1 to the Holy Island causeway car park. Bicycles are not permitted on the reserve itself, but you can lock them at the car park and walk the causeway to the island before exploring the reserve on foot.
On foot (from nearby villages)

Walk from nearby coastal villages such as Beal or Bamburgh to the causeway car park, then cross to Holy Island on foot. The full journey from Bamburgh takes several hours over mixed terrain; allow plenty of time and always check tide times before setting out.

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Where Land Meets Sea

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve wraps around the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, where the Northumberland coast meets the North Sea in a dramatic interplay of tides, sand and sky. Over 3,500 hectares of tidal mudflats, saltmarsh and dunes form a rich mosaic that supports an extraordinary variety of life. At low tide, vast expanses of mudflat are exposed, teeming with worms, shellfish and other invertebrates that sustain huge flocks of wading birds and wildfowl. As the tide rises, the landscape transforms, with channels and pools reflecting the ever-changing light and drawing in seals and seabirds.

Wildlife Through the Seasons

Winter is the peak time to witness the reserve’s avian spectacle, as thousands of waterfowl arrive from the Arctic to feed on the nutrient-rich mud. Pale-bellied brent geese fly in from Svalbard, while flocks of waders such as oystercatchers, curlews and redshanks patrol the edges of the saltmarsh. Spring and summer bring breeding birds to the dunes and grasslands, including lapwings, meadow pipits and reed buntings, as well as delicate orchids like the marsh helleborine. Grey seals are present year-round, often seen hauled out on sandbanks or bobbing in the clear waters around the island, especially on calm days.

Exploring the Reserve

The reserve is best explored on foot via a well-marked self-guided nature trail that loops for about 5 km (3 miles), taking 1.5 to 3 hours at a relaxed pace. The trail starts near the harbour and leads past the castle, along the edge of the Lough and through the dunes before returning via Straight Lonnen. Wooden posts along the route highlight different aspects of the landscape, from geology and plant life to birdwatching tips. Bird hides at the Lough and nearby Fenham-le-Moor offer sheltered vantage points, particularly effective at high tide when birds are concentrated on the remaining exposed ground.

Responsible Visiting

This is a fragile, protected environment where wildlife depends on space and quiet. Visitors are asked to stay on existing paths and avoid trampling dunes or disturbing ground-nesting birds. A minimum distance of 100 metres is recommended from all wildlife, especially seals and resting birds; if birds take flight, you are already too close. Bicycles are not permitted on the reserve to prevent damage to sensitive habitats, though a Sustrans route runs parallel along the coast. Seasonal access restrictions may apply in spring and summer to protect breeding areas, and these are clearly signposted on site.

Island Context and Access

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve is part of the wider Holy Island experience, which also includes Lindisfarne Priory and Lindisfarne Castle. The island is reached via a tidal causeway from the mainland, which is covered twice daily by the sea; safe crossing times must be checked in advance. Once on the island, the reserve is open to explore on foot, with car parks and basic facilities in the village. The reserve’s character is one of solitude and natural rhythm, contrasting with the more historic and cultural sites nearby, and rewarding those who come prepared for changeable weather and a slow, observant pace.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker

10.9 km

Explore the unique WWII Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker in Bamburgh, a striking hexagonal pillbox guarding Northumberland’s historic coastline.

Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions

11.4 km

Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.

Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions

Berwick Lighthouse

15.3 km

Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.

Coxon's Tower

16.1 km

Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.

Berwick Town Walls

16.2 km

Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.

Town Hall

16.5 km

A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.

Royal Tweed Bridge

16.5 km

A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Berwick Bridge

16.5 km

A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Cumberland Bastion

16.8 km

Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.

Lord's Mount

17.0 km

Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.

Royal Border Bridge

17.1 km

Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.

Beadnell Harbour

17.5 km

Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.

Broad Shiel

18.3 km

Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.

Lamberton Skerrs

23.1 km

Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.

Marjoribanks Monument

26.5 km

A towering tribute to Charles Marjoribanks offering stunning views and rich history at Coldstream’s eastern gateway.

Unmissable attractions to see

Lindisfarne Heritage Centre

1.8 km

Explore Holy Island’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits on history, nature, and culture at the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre.

Lindisfarne Castle

2.6 km

A dramatic Tudor fortress turned Edwardian retreat, Lindisfarne Castle offers stunning coastal views and historic charm on Northumberland’s iconic Holy Island.

Holy Island

2.6 km

Discover Holy Island, a tidal sanctuary of ancient Christian heritage, stunning coastal beauty, and tranquil village charm off Northumberland’s coast.

Heritage Walks Northumberland

4.6 km

Explore Northumberland’s hidden heritage on scenic guided walks blending history, nature, and local stories in stunning countryside settings.

National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

7.7 km

Discover the tranquil sandstone refuge where Saint Cuthbert’s legacy and Northumberland’s spiritual history converge amidst stunning countryside.

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

8.9 km

Discover the inspiring story of Victorian heroine Grace Darling and her daring sea rescue at this intimate museum near Bamburgh Castle.

Bamburgh Castle

9.2 km

Explore Bamburgh Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with royal history, stunning coastal views, and a rich cultural legacy on England’s Northumberland coast.

North Wames

12.4 km

Discover the rugged beauty and vibrant wildlife of North Wames, a pristine sanctuary in the Farne Islands off England’s Northumberland coast.

National Trust - Farne Islands

12.6 km

A breathtaking wildlife sanctuary off Northumberland’s coast, famed for puffins, seals, historic lighthouses, and rich cultural heritage.

Farne Islands

12.8 km

A breathtaking archipelago off Northumberland’s coast, home to vibrant seabird colonies, playful seals, and rich maritime history.

Longstone Lighthouse

13.5 km

Historic 19th-century lighthouse on the Farne Islands, famed for Grace Darling’s heroic 1838 rescue and stunning coastal wildlife cruises.

Co-op Food - Seahouses - Main Street

13.9 km

Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Seahouses, open long hours with a great range of essentials and local products.

Chillingham Castle

15.8 km

Medieval fortress and haunted castle where 800 years of English history come alive in stone and shadow.

Chillingham Castle

15.8 km

Explore Chillingham Castle’s medieval grandeur and haunted mysteries nestled in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.

Berwick Boat Trips

16.4 km

Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed from the water on scenic boat trips blending wildlife, history, and stunning river and sea views.

Essential places to dine

The Potted Lobster - Bamburgh

9.1 km

Savor fresh, locally sourced seafood in a relaxed, elegant setting with stunning views of Bamburgh Castle and the Northumberland coast.

The Black Bull Inn

10.0 km

A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.

Percy Arms Hotel

13.6 km

Charming 3-star country inn in Chatton offering spacious dog-friendly rooms, hearty British cuisine, and a cosy rural atmosphere.

Insieme Seahouses

13.9 km

Experience generous portions of authentic Italian cuisine with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Seahouses.

Limoncello

16.3 km

Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.

Ivy 43

16.4 km

Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Amore Restaurant

16.4 km

Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

16.4 km

A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Craster Arms

16.5 km

Historic gastropub and hotel blending medieval heritage with vibrant coastal charm in the heart of Beadnell village.

Audela

16.5 km

Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

16.8 km

A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.

The Castle Hotel & Restaurant

17.1 km

Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.

The Landing, Beadnell Bay

17.2 km

Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Landing, Beadnell Bay’s welcoming spot for classic fish and chips and more.

Milan Restaurant

17.5 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.

The Blue Bell Inn

20.2 km

A charming country inn blending rustic warmth with modern comfort, serving hearty meals in scenic Northumberland borders.

Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Lindisfarne Inn

5.9 km

Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.

Schooner Inn

14.0 km

A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.

The Radio Rooms

16.2 km

A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.

The Curfew Micropub

16.4 km

A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.

The Barrels

16.5 km

Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.

Leaping Salmon

16.6 km

A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.

The Thatch

16.7 km

A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.

The Joiners Arms

19.9 km

A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.

The First & Last Inn

25.5 km

Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.

BEST PUBLIC BAR

26.9 km

A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.

Black Swan Alnwick

28.4 km

Historic charm meets cozy comfort at The Black Swan Alnwick, a welcoming pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of town.

Harry's Bar

28.4 km

A cozy micropub in Alnwick’s historic Narrowgate, offering craft ales, whiskies, and a friendly, quirky atmosphere with a nod to local history.

The Queens Head

28.6 km

A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.

The Contented Sole

28.7 km

A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.

Tanners Arms Alnwick

28.7 km

A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

BedRocks

16.6 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.

GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed

16.6 km

Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.

The Royal British Legion

39.1 km

Discover community, camaraderie, and local entertainment at The Royal British Legion in Kelso - a vibrant hub for visitors and locals.

The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club

44.1 km

A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.

The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club

Nothing

54.0 km

Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.

Dance Delicious

55.5 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.

Morven

56.5 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.

Knightrider Discos

57.2 km

Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.

Warehouse Nightclub

61.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.

The Indigo Rooms

61.9 km

Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.

The Border Club

65.7 km

Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.

Base Nightclub

66.0 km

Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.

Square One

66.4 km

Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.

Cosmic Ballroom

77.6 km

Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.

Sinners

77.7 km

Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.

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Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

A brief summary to Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

By car and foot

By public transport and foot

By bicycle (to the causeway)

On foot (from nearby villages)

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve

Where Land Meets Sea

Wildlife Through the Seasons

Exploring the Reserve

Responsible Visiting

Island Context and Access

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker

Villages in Time Guided Walks no longer functions

Berwick Lighthouse

Coxon's Tower

Berwick Town Walls

Town Hall

Royal Tweed Bridge

Berwick Bridge

Cumberland Bastion

Lord's Mount

Royal Border Bridge

Beadnell Harbour

Broad Shiel

Lamberton Skerrs

Marjoribanks Monument

Unmissable attractions to see

Lindisfarne Heritage Centre

Lindisfarne Castle

Holy Island

Heritage Walks Northumberland

National Trust - St Cuthbert's Cave

RNLI Grace Darling Museum

Bamburgh Castle

North Wames

National Trust - Farne Islands

Farne Islands

Longstone Lighthouse

Co-op Food - Seahouses - Main Street

Chillingham Castle

Chillingham Castle

Berwick Boat Trips

Essential places to dine

The Potted Lobster - Bamburgh

The Black Bull Inn

Percy Arms Hotel

Insieme Seahouses

Limoncello

Ivy 43

Amore Restaurant

Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant

The Craster Arms

Audela

Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill

The Castle Hotel & Restaurant

The Landing, Beadnell Bay

Milan Restaurant

The Blue Bell Inn

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The National Trust Shop

Country House Gifts & Gallery

Farne Gifts

Drift

National Trust Shop

Raggy Dolls

North Shore Gifts

Granny's Keepsakes

No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store

Unique Antiques

Artisans at Serendipity