Wild coastal walks: Holy Island

Think there are no wildernesses left on our coast? Here are seven walks that let you taste the cream of the wild coastlands - moody, offbeat and inspiring - and see why these islands are so satisfying to explore. Not many walks have a castle and a priory waiting for you at the end, why not try the old Pilgrim way in Northumberland

 
Stepping back in time

 
Over the sands by the causeway to reach the castle and priory of Holy Island, Northumberland

 

The old Pilgrim Way offers a wonderful low-tide crossing to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, with its castle and splendid monastic ruins. Refuge boxes stand ready to shelter those who are caught by the tide.

 

Wilderness rating: blows away the cobwebs

 

You may spot Brent geese in winter, wading birds in summer and seals at any time. And there is always the thrill of racing the approaching tide.

 

Way to go: Follow the pole-marked route to the right of the Tarmac causeway. Please note: the sands are generally safe to cross three-and-a-half hours either side of low water. Check tide times via the Lindisfarne website.

 

Time and effort needed: A walk of three miles from shore to island - allow one-and-a-half hours for the crossing.

Refuel at: The Ship Inn, Marygate, Holy Island (01289 389311, www.theshipinn-holyisland.co.uk), a delightful island pub.

 

Getting there: Take the 477 bus from Berwick-Upon-Tweed to Holy Island. By car, follow the A1 to West Mains, then the minor road to the causeway.

 

Sleep at: The Ship Inn - double B&B from £84.

 

OS Maps Landranger 75; Explorer 340. Click here for the Ordanance Survey Get a Map survey.

 

For more info The Lindisfarne Heritage Centre, Marygate (01289 389004, www.lindisfarne.org.uk).

 

Click here for more wild coastal walks... 

 

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We've got walks all over the country (and by the sea, and in the city) - find a walk near you now

 

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