Holy Island: Berwick to Lindisfarne

A route from the historic town of Berwick-upon-Tweed to Holy Island, a few miles off the Northumberland Coast. Both an island and a picturesque village, Holy Island has a fascinating history and provides stunning coastal views. The route can be extended to Alnmouth, further down the coast.

Berwick-upon-Tweed is a historic town that is definitely worth exploring.

Its town walls, built to keep out invading Scots, are still intact and you can walk almost their entire length, as well as exploring the remains of the medieval castle.

With beautiful views over the River Tweed estuary, you can admire the Royal Border Bridge, built by Robert Stevenson.

The route starts at the train station where you follow signs for Route 1 that take you through the town and out to the quayside.

Using the old bridge across the River Tweed you travel along Dock Road through Spittal – here you pick up the coastal path along the cliffs to Cheswick. Carefully cross the railway line and go past the golf course and out towards Beachcomber House.

You’ll then follow a stony path to the causeway road that takes you to Holy Island (you’ll need to check the tide times before setting off).

Holy Island has some fascinating history. Lindisfarne Castle was originally built to defend a harbour sheltering English ships during skirmishes with Scotland.

Now owned by the National Trust, you can see the results of its renovation during the early 1900s by Edwin Lutyens.

Lindisfarne Priory was ransacked by marauding Viking raiders in the 8th century, but the stunning ruins include the famous ‘rainbow bridge’, which spirals skywards.

Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve is a great place to see wildlife, including grey seals and a wide variety of migratory birds.

 

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Please note

We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.

However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.

Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.

Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.

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