We continue with an extraordinary island.
Skim over the sands and causeway to Holy Island and prepare to enter another world. Lying just a few miles off the Northumberland coast, Holy Island is cut off twice-daily from the rest of the world by fast-moving tides. Both an island and a picturesque village, Holy Island carries a wealth of history within its tidal walls.
https://www.martinlawrencephotography.com/gallery/view/lindisfarne-castle-at-holy-island/northumberland
Experience the serenity of 12th century Lindisfarne Priory, which was ransacked by marauding Viking raiders in the 8th century. The evocative ruins include the famous ‘rainbow bridge’ which spirals skywards with the ghost of a long-vanished tower.
Holy Island remains a place of pilgrimage today. The island is the final destination of long distance walking route and one of Scotland’s Great Trails, the St Cuthbert’s Way.
Rising from the sheer rock face at the tip of the island is Lindisfarne Castle built in 1550 as a fort. You can enjoy the fabulous architecture and stunning views.
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/a-weekend-on-holy-island-northumberland-h69mszpvv
Aside
its historical pedigree, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne has an
exciting array of wildlife. Its island status protects tidal
mudflats, saltmarshes and dunes which together form the Lindisfarne
National Nature Reserve. Rare plants and an abundance of food
supplies attract visiting birds from thousands of miles.
A
word of caution: Be sure to check for safe
crossing times on
the causeway's notice board before journeying to Holy Island. Berwick
Tourist Information Centre has
full details of both the tides and bus service to the island.
Information is from:
https://www.visitnorthumberland.com/holy-island
5. Tynemouth
Tynemouth
is steeped in history, has some fabulous attractions, great
shopping and a vibrant nightlife. This charming
village is a perfect destination for a day trip.
The dramatic Tynemouth Priory & Castle dominates the headland. The site dates back centuries and is the burial place of Saints and Kings of the old Kingdom of Northumbria.
https://www.visitnorthtyneside.com/activities/activity/56/
There are some truly breathtaking walks to take round Tynemouth, the walk along the seafront is stunning and is rewarded with views of golden sandy beaches. The promenade takes you to the historic North Shields Fish Quay.
Photo by: Suzanne
A short stroll in and around the village reveals some interesting buildings, many with Blue Plaques.
Tynemouth
Longsands is a mile long beach of golden sands popular for walking,
relaxing, games and is a nationally recognised watersports hub.
https://britishbeaches.uk/tynemouth-long-sands-north-beach-tyne-and-wear-england
Tynemouth Aquarium provides fun for all the family with some fantastic exhibits on display of marine life of all different shapes, colours and sizes including otters, seals and even a colony of monkeys!
The
village's Metro Station has recently been restored to its Victorian
splendour. It has huge weekend markets.
Information from:
https://www.visitnorthtyneside.com/destinations/destination/1/
That is it for Northumberland. Next time we start exploring Yorkshire.