Express Yourself!

Harbour and Castle

As with many islands around the world, tourism is vital to the local economy. However, fishing for lobsters, crabs and oysters still provides a living for a small number of fishermen operating out of the picturesque harbour on the south side of the island. Oysters are a local speciality and are sent to restaurants all over the country. There are only 160 people living on the island, a few restaurants and tearooms, two pubs and a post office, and a limited amount of accommodation, but so much to see and do.

As a tidal island with only one road on to the island, you will find that some facilities are closed during high tide. Life on the island is naturally governed by the changing of the tides.

Bird watching

There are more than 300 varieties of bird that visit the island every year and more than 50,000 birds in total.

Spot cormorants, puffins, mallard, swans, eider ducks and razobills amongst many others. To see thousands of migratory birds visit in spring or autumn.

If a keen ornithologist or photographer of birds, visit the nesting sites on nearby Farne and Staple Islands for an unforgettable experience. If you have a telephoto lens makes sure that you take it with you for magnificent photos.

Razorbill on Farne Island

Lindisfarne Mead

Lindisfarne is also known for its production of Lindisfarne Mead, a sweet and fruity alcoholic beverage, which is produced at St Aidan’s winery on the island. Mead is made from honey, grape juice, herbs, natural water and fine spirit and is based on one of the oldest drinks in the world.

Wow fact - did you know that it is claimed that the word honeymoon was used to describe a custom in Babylon where the father of the bride would give the groom all the mead (honey wine) he could drink for the first month of marriage to increase fertility.

Walking

Although a small island of approx. two square miles there are fairly gentle walking trails around the island. Don’t be surprised to come across seals lazing on the rocks, and look out for the remains of the lime industry which along with fishing was once the main employer on the island. It’s hard to believe that lime was once manufactured and loaded on to ships near the remote castle. If visiting in July and August especially, pay a visit to the Getrude Jeckyll garden near the castle for a splash of colours and scents.