Farne Islands

The Farne Islands are off the Northumberland coast in England. They are a haven for seabirds and seals.

Understand

Atlantic Puffin

The earliest recorded history of the islands was in 651 when they became the home of St Aidan, who was joined by St Cuthbert. In 676 St Cuthbert created what may be the world's first wildlife protection law, protecting the eider ducks. The islands were used as a religious retreat for hermits over the following centuries.

Several lighthouses were built on the islands in the 18th century, including the Longstone Lighthouse on Outer Farne. In 1838 Grace Darling and her father were resident and rescued 9 people from a shipwreck.

Visitor information

• National Trust page on the islands

Get in

The islands are open to visitors from April to October. There is a National Trust admission charge, which for an adult ranges is £12 or £15 (2024). You must go on an organised boat trip - private landings are not allowed.

By boat from Seahouses

• Golden Gate from £15.
• Serenity from £20
• Diving tours from Glad Tidings.

Get around

• On foot!
• Most visitors go to Inner Farne or Staple Island. Inner Farne has boardwalks. Staple Island has bare rocks.

See

• 1 St Cuthbert's Chapel, Inner Farne. built in the 14th century and modified in the 19th this chapel is open for visits. (updated Feb 2019)
• 2 Longstone Lighthouse. Visit the lighthouse and Grace Darling's house. (updated Feb 2019)

Buy

There is a National Trust shop in Seahouses to buy souvenirs after visiting the islands. There are no shops on the islands.

Eat and drink

No food or drink available on the islands. Take a picnic with you.

Go next

• Most visitors will return to Seahouses.
• Lindisfarne or Holy Island, a few miles north is accessed by a causeway.