Farne Islands
The Farne Islands are a group of rugged, rocky islands sitting just off the Northumberland coast. This is a must-visit for anyone who loves nature or just wants a bit of an adventure on the high seas. It is a world-famous spot for seeing incredible wildlife up close, especially birds and seals.
What to Expect and Enjoy
The big draw here is the sheer number of animals. Depending on when you go, you can see thousands of nesting seabirds like Puffins, Kittiwakes, and Razorbills. The puffins are often the stars of the show because they are so colourful and surprisingly small!
If you visit during the middle of the year, usually from May to July, the islands are teeming with life. You will see birds diving into the sea and returning with tiny fish in their beaks. Later in the year, usually from late autumn into early winter, the focus shifts to the Grey Seals. Thousands of seal pups are born on the islands during this time, and you can see them lounging on the rocks from the safety of a boat.
For those interested in history, one of the islands has a lovely old chapel and a lighthouse. There is a famous story about Grace Darling, a lighthouse keeper’s daughter who helped save people from a shipwreck, which adds a bit of local legend to the trip.
How it Works
To see the islands, you need to head to the village of Seahouses and hop on a boat.
- Boat Trips: There are several different trips. Some just sail around the islands so you can see everything from the water, while others allow you to actually land on one of the islands to walk around.
- Landing: If you land, you will be walking on wooden boardwalks or rocky paths. It is generally level but can be slippery.
- Time: Most people spend about 2 to 3 hours on a boat trip. If you choose a landing trip, it might take a bit longer.
Who is it for?
This is a brilliant day out for families, couples, and photographers. Children usually love the boat ride and seeing the “clowns of the sea” (the puffins). It’s also very popular with seniors and nature lovers. Just keep in mind that the boat ride can be a bit “bouncy” if the sea is choppy, so it might not be ideal for very young toddlers or those who get sea-sick easily.
Planning Your Visit
- Postcode: NE68 7RN (Seahouses Harbour)
- County: Northumberland
- Parking: There is a large car park in Seahouses right near the harbour. It can get busy and a bit pricey during the peak summer months, so arriving early is a good idea.
- Discounts: If you are a member of the National Trust, you usually get free access to land on the islands themselves, though you still have to pay the independent boat operators for the ride out there.
Tips from Other Visitors
- Wear a Hat: This sounds funny, but if you land on the islands during nesting season, the Arctic Terns are very protective of their nests and might peck at your head! A peaked cap or a woolly hat is a lifesaver.
- Wrap Up: Even if it feels warm on land, it is always much colder out on the open water. Bring a waterproof jacket and an extra jumper.
- Seahouses Village: After your trip, Seahouses is the perfect place for Fish and Chips. There are plenty of places to eat and cute little shops to browse.
Nearby Fun
If you want to make a full weekend of it, Bamburgh Castle is just a few minutes’ drive away. It is a massive, stunning castle right on the beach and looks like something out of a movie. Combining a morning boat trip with an afternoon at the castle makes for an unforgettable day.