National Trust - Farne Islands
A breathtaking wildlife sanctuary off Northumberland’s coast, famed for puffins, seals, historic lighthouses, and rich cultural heritage.
The Farne Islands, managed by the National Trust, are a remarkable cluster of islands off the coast of Seahouses, Northumberland. Famous for their vibrant seabird colonies including puffins, Arctic terns, and guillemots, as well as a large grey seal population, the islands offer unforgettable wildlife encounters. Visitors can enjoy boat tours and landing trips during the breeding season, exploring historic sites like St Cuthbert's Chapel and Grace Darling's lighthouse. This protected nature reserve is a sanctuary of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to National Trust - Farne Islands
- Near, Seahouses, NE68 7SH, GB
- +441289389244
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book boat trips in advance, especially for landing tours during the busy breeding season from April to September.
- Bring binoculars and waterproof clothing to enhance wildlife viewing and stay comfortable in changing weather.
- National Trust members can land on the islands for free but still need to purchase boat tickets.
- Wear a hat and be prepared for dive-bombing Arctic terns during the nesting season to protect yourself.
- Visit the historic St Cuthbert’s Chapel and Grace Darling lighthouse for a rich cultural experience alongside wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Boat
Regular boat trips depart from Seahouses harbour, approximately 1 hour north of Newcastle. Operators like Billy Shiel’s and Golden Gate offer tours lasting 2 to 3 hours, including options to land on Inner Farne. Booking in advance is advised, with prices ranging from £25 to £40 per person.
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Car
Seahouses is accessible by car via the A1 from Newcastle, about a 1-hour drive. Pay-and-display parking is available in the village near the harbour, but spaces can fill quickly during peak season. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £6 for a day.
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Public Transport
Bus services connect Seahouses to nearby towns such as Alnwick and Berwick-upon-Tweed, with journey times of 45 to 90 minutes depending on origin. From the bus stop, the harbour is a 10-15 minute walk. Services may be less frequent on weekends and holidays.
National Trust - Farne Islands location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Farne Islands
A Sanctuary for Seabirds and Seals
The Farne Islands are a nationally important wildlife haven located just off the Northumberland coast near Seahouses. This archipelago hosts over 200,000 breeding seabirds from 23 species, including approximately 40,000 pairs of puffins, Arctic terns, guillemots, razorbills, and shags. The islands are also home to one of the UK's largest colonies of Atlantic grey seals, which can often be seen lounging on rocks or swimming in the surrounding waters. The breeding season from April to September offers the best opportunity for visitors to witness this spectacular natural display.Historic and Spiritual Heritage
Beyond its ecological significance, the Farne Islands hold deep cultural and historical importance. St Cuthbert, a revered 7th-century saint, lived as a hermit on Inner Farne, and his legacy endures through the tranquil St Cuthbert's Chapel featuring 17th-century wood carvings and stained glass. Longstone Island is notable for its iconic red-and-white lighthouse and as the home of Grace Darling, a local heroine famed for her daring 1838 sea rescue. These historical landmarks enrich the visitor experience, blending natural wonder with poignant human stories.Visitor Experience and Wildlife Interaction
Visitors typically access the islands via boat trips departing from Seahouses harbour, with several operators offering tours ranging from circumnavigation to landing trips on Inner Farne and Staple Island. Landing trips allow close encounters with nesting birds and seal colonies, as well as visits to historic buildings. Guided tours and National Trust wardens help ensure wildlife protection and visitor safety, especially during the breeding season when Arctic terns may dive-bomb to protect their nests. Facilities on Inner Farne include basic toilets, an information hut, and picnic areas.Conservation and Responsible Tourism
The National Trust has cared for the Farne Islands since 1925, focusing on preserving their unique wildlife and habitats. Conservation efforts include monitoring bird populations, protecting seal colonies, and maintaining visitor pathways to minimize disturbance. Visitors are encouraged to follow guidelines such as staying on designated paths and respecting wildlife to ensure the islands remain a thriving sanctuary. The islands have also faced challenges such as avian flu outbreaks, with ongoing efforts to support recovery.Accessibility and Practical Information
Seahouses serves as the gateway village, offering parking, public toilets, and amenities like shops and cafes. Some boat operators provide wheelchair-accessible vessels, though physical constraints limit access for larger mobility devices. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for landing trips during peak season. National Trust members benefit from free landing fees but must still purchase boat tickets. The best wildlife viewing months are April through July, coinciding with the seabird breeding season.Natural Beauty and Seasonal Highlights
The islands’ rugged cliffs, rocky shores, and open sea vistas create a scenic backdrop for wildlife observation and photography. Early spring brings the first puffins and migrating seabirds, while summer showcases bustling colonies and playful seal pups. Autumn and winter offer quieter boat trips to observe seals and shags. This dynamic environment, coupled with rich biodiversity, makes the Farne Islands a treasured destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lozenge Type Coastal Bunker
4.9 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
5.5 km
Explore the enchanting history of local villages with Villages in Time Guided Walks, where every step uncovers stories from the past.
Beadnell Harbour
9.0 km
Historic 18th-century harbour with unique west-facing entrance, scenic sandy bay, and preserved lime kilns on Northumberland’s coast.
Berwick Lighthouse
26.7 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
27.7 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
27.8 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Town Hall
28.0 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
28.0 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
28.1 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Cumberland Bastion
28.2 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Lord's Mount
28.4 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Royal Border Bridge
28.7 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Broad Shiel
30.4 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Warkworth Hermitage
31.7 km
A medieval chapel carved into riverside cliffs, accessible only by boat—where history and legend intertwine.
Lamberton Skerrs
34.0 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Farne Islands
0.2 km
A breathtaking archipelago off Northumberland’s coast, home to vibrant seabird colonies, playful seals, and rich maritime history.
North Wames
1.0 km
Discover the rugged beauty and vibrant wildlife of North Wames, a pristine sanctuary in the Farne Islands off England’s Northumberland coast.
Longstone Lighthouse
1.9 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse on the Farne Islands, famed for Grace Darling’s heroic 1838 rescue and stunning coastal wildlife cruises.
Bamburgh Castle
5.6 km
Explore Bamburgh Castle, a majestic medieval fortress with royal history, stunning coastal views, and a rich cultural legacy on England’s Northumberland coast.
Co-op Food - Seahouses - Main Street
5.8 km
Your friendly neighborhood convenience store in Seahouses, open long hours with a great range of essentials and local products.
RNLI Grace Darling Museum
6.1 km
Discover the inspiring story of Victorian heroine Grace Darling and her daring sea rescue at this intimate museum near Bamburgh Castle.
Beadnell Bay Beach
8.9 km
Discover Beadnell Bay Beach’s golden sands, unique west-facing harbor, and tranquil wildlife haven on the stunning Northumberland coast.
Northumberland Coast National Landscape
10.5 km
Explore the wild beauty and rich heritage of England’s dramatic Northumberland Coast National Landscape.
Lindisfarne Castle
10.6 km
A dramatic Tudor fortress turned Edwardian retreat, Lindisfarne Castle offers stunning coastal views and historic charm on Northumberland’s iconic Holy Island.
Lindisfarne Heritage Centre
11.7 km
Explore Holy Island’s rich heritage through captivating exhibits on history, nature, and culture at the Lindisfarne Heritage Centre.
Holy Island
12.0 km
Discover Holy Island’s rich spiritual heritage, dramatic tidal landscapes, and vibrant wildlife sanctuary off England’s Northumberland coast.
Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve
12.6 km
A wild, tidal landscape of mudflats, dunes and saltmarsh, home to wintering birds, seals and rare orchids on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.
Preston Tower | Historic Garden Wedding & Events Venue in Northumberland
13.1 km
Discover Preston Tower, a medieval pele tower set in scenic Northumberland gardens, perfect for history lovers and unforgettable weddings.
Dunstanburgh Castle
15.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, a majestic 14th-century fortress set against Northumberland’s stunning coastal landscape.
Heritage Walks Northumberland
16.9 km
Explore Northumberland’s hidden heritage on scenic guided walks blending history, nature, and local stories in stunning countryside settings.
Essential places to dine
Insieme Seahouses
5.8 km
Experience generous portions of authentic Italian cuisine with a warm, family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Seahouses.
The Potted Lobster - Bamburgh
6.1 km
Savor fresh, locally sourced seafood in a relaxed, elegant setting with stunning views of Bamburgh Castle and the Northumberland coast.
The Craster Arms
8.3 km
Historic gastropub and hotel blending medieval heritage with vibrant coastal charm in the heart of Beadnell village.
The Landing, Beadnell Bay
8.8 km
Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Landing, Beadnell Bay’s welcoming spot for classic fish and chips and more.
The Ship Inn
13.1 km
Historic seaside gastropub with home-brewed ales and fresh seafood, offering rustic charm and stunning Northumberland coast views.
The Jolly Fisherman Inn
17.8 km
A charming coastal inn in Craster serving fresh, traditional seafood with stunning harbour views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Percy Arms Hotel
20.0 km
Charming 3-star country inn in Chatton offering spacious dog-friendly rooms, hearty British cuisine, and a cosy rural atmosphere.
The Black Bull Inn
22.2 km
A charming country pub and inn in Lowick offering luxury rooms, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere amid Northumberland’s scenic beauty.
The Treehouse Restaurant
24.5 km
Dine enchanted in the treetops of The Alnwick Garden, where local British flavors meet magical woodland charm and handcrafted rustic elegance.
The Dirty Bottles
24.6 km
A charming historic pub, cocktail bar, and boutique hotel in Alnwick blending local character with cozy comfort and hearty fare.
The Market Tavern, Steakhouse and Lodge
24.7 km
A beloved steakhouse and lodge in Alnwick’s heart, offering hearty local fare and warm hospitality near historic landmarks.
Sonnet Restaurant
24.8 km
Experience a poetic 14-course tasting menu inspired by Shakespearean sonnets, blending local Northumberland flavors with refined culinary artistry.
Adam and Eve
24.8 km
A stylish gastropub in Alnwick blending local seasonal produce with creative cocktails in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Milan Restaurant
26.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Wooler at Milan Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration.
The Hope & Anchor Hotel
26.9 km
Cozy coastal retreat with modern rooms, Italian dining, and warm hospitality in the heart of Alnmouth village.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Farne Gifts
5.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and coastal treasures at Farne Gifts, Seahouses’ charming gift shop with a welcoming atmosphere and year-round appeal.
National Trust Shop
5.7 km
Discover charming puffin souvenirs and local crafts at the National Trust Shop in Seahouses, supporting conservation of the Farne Islands.
Drift
5.7 km
Discover Drift, a family-run coastal gift shop in Seahouses offering unique yarns and craft goodies inspired by Northumberland’s seaside charm.
Raggy Dolls
5.7 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion in a friendly boutique at the heart of charming Seahouses village.
North Shore Gifts
5.8 km
Discover handmade jewellery and unique coastal gifts at North Shore Gifts, a welcoming boutique celebrating Northumberland’s artisanal spirit.
Country House Gifts & Gallery
5.9 km
Discover unique gifts and high-quality treasures in the heart of historic Bamburgh at Country House Gifts & Gallery.
The National Trust Shop
11.6 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Ruby Tuesday Alnwick
24.6 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts from small businesses at Ruby Tuesday Alnwick, a charming boutique in the heart of historic Alnwick.
A World Of Difference
24.6 km
Discover fair trade gifts and organic health foods in Alnwick’s welcoming shop committed to sustainability and ethical shopping.
Marilyn & Melrose
24.6 km
Discover unique gifts, restored furniture, and creative workshops at Alnwick’s charming Marilyn & Melrose boutique.
Robinson's
24.7 km
A charming department and gift shop in Alnwick’s historic center offering quality apparel, home furnishings, and friendly service.
The Original Factory Shop (Alnwick)
24.8 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, footwear, and homeware bargains in the heart of Alnwick’s shopping district.
Notes of Northumberland
25.5 km
Experience the enchanting world of handcrafted candles at Notes of Northumberland in Alnwick, where every scent tells a story.
Willowburn Retail Park
25.8 km
A convenient and diverse retail hub in Alnwick offering national brands and local specialties with ample parking and easy A1 access.
Jane & Harry
27.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Jane & Harry, Alnmouth’s welcoming treasure trove on Northumberland Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Schooner Inn
5.7 km
A charming nautical-themed pub in Seahouses offering cozy ambiance, local ales, and a welcoming stop in this vibrant fishing village.
The Joiners Arms
12.4 km
A stylish 5-star boutique inn and gastropub by Northumberland’s stunning coast, blending local flavors, cozy charm, and seaside serenity.
The Lindisfarne Inn
18.5 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
Black Swan Alnwick
24.6 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
24.6 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
24.8 km
A welcoming historic pub and hotel in Alnwick, blending traditional charm with modern comfort near Alnwick Castle.
Tanners Arms Alnwick
24.8 km
A cozy, historic pub in Alnwick offering well-kept local ales, friendly vibes, and a true taste of Northumberland hospitality.
The Sun Inn
27.0 km
A cozy 3-star inn and lively pub in Alnmouth offering local charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere by the Northumberland coast.
The Red Lion Inn
27.0 km
Charming coastal pub and cozy B&B in Alnmouth, famed for wood-fired pizzas, local ales, and warm hospitality just steps from the beach.
The Radio Rooms
27.9 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
28.0 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The Barrels
28.0 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
Leaping Salmon
28.2 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Thatch
28.4 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 Lounge Bar
33.2 km
A quirky and lively cocktail and wine bar in Amble, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
BedRocks
28.1 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
28.2 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
The Brick Club, Red Row Working Mens Club
38.5 km
A welcoming traditional working men's club in Morpeth offering authentic local atmosphere, classic ales, and a strong community spirit.
Dance Delicious
49.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and modern vibes at Dance Delicious, Ashington’s premier spot for dancing and social fun.
The Royal British Legion
50.8 km
Discover community, camaraderie, and local entertainment at The Royal British Legion in Kelso - a vibrant hub for visitors and locals.
Knightrider Discos
53.4 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
Nothing
65.7 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Morven
68.1 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Cosmic Ballroom
73.2 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.
World HQ
73.2 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Sinners
73.3 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.
Popworld - Newcastle
73.4 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Greys Club
73.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
73.4 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
Flares - Newcastle
73.5 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
