Lindisfarne

Lindisfarne is known as Holy Island, the first mention of which occurred in 570, when it was called Inis Metcaut or "island of strong winds". Holy Island was the place where Christianity was first permanently established in the Kingdom of Northumbria.

Part of the experience of visiting Lindisfarne is exploring its two principal historic landmarks, the castle and priory, but we were also enthralled by the process of gaining access to the island. Lindisfarne is reached by a narrow causeway which is covered at high tide; it is impossible to cross the island between the two hours before high tide and the three hours after. Visitors to the island, which is small, roughly 2½ miles long and 9 miles around, are advised to consult tide tables displayed at the end of the causeway (or in local newspapers). While crossing we saw people in their wellies taking a morning walk in the sea, even a horse high-stepping it over the seaweed-littered seabed.

We decided against waiting for the bus once on the mainland and walked to Lindisfarne Castle. As you can see from the photo, it was a misty day; only gradually did the castle, perched atop a rocky crag, become visible to us. After walking up the slippery steps to the front portal, we entered to find the rooms small and intimately appointed yet with a pleasing air of modest authenticity. Our tour complete, we set out again on foot for the Priory, where the corpse of St. Cuthbert was found undecayed in 698 AD, making the priory one of the most sacred shrines in Christendom. The monastery's legendary wealth is no longer apparent, thanks to brutal Viking raiders who plundered the priory in the 8th and 9th centuries, forcing the monks to seek refuge on the mainland.

Lindisfarne also plays host to many shops and pubs, one of which provided us with an energizing lunch.

Date of Our Last Visit: July 2002