The sight of tall marker poles stretching across the pewter-coloured mud and sand to Holy Island is one of the most iconic views in Northumberland and to walk the route and follow in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims is a truly memorable experience and unlike any other walks in this county.
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne has been a place of pilgrimage since St Aidan built a monastery in 635 when the tidal sands were the only route between the mainland and island – until the road was constructed in 1954.
Route details
Walk across (towards the island) the road bridge over South Low to reach the lay-by on the right hand side (Grid ref. NU 08586 42861), head out to the first pole on the east side of the river (South Low) and simply follow the poles and refuges to the island.
Advice for walking the Pilgrim’s Way:
- Tide times: check the safe crossing times for the road. Look at the green highlighted times and cross in the middle of that time range (which equals low tide). The causeway is generally open 3 hours after high tide until 2 hours before the next high tide.
- The initial route to Snook Point may need to move slightly inland depending on the tide.
- Ideally set out on a receding/outgoing tide
- Leave up to 90 minutes to cross the 4.5 km route
- Do not cross in poor visibility (dusk, fog etc)
- Choose footwear wisely – barefoot is OK (watch out for patches of sharp shells)
Guides
If you’d prefer to walk with others who know the area contact a local guide: Holy Island Hikes (01289 389 225) or Footsteps Tours (tel. 07847 506 399)
Public Transport
The Holy Island Hopper service can be joined at the island’s car park to return you to the start of the causeway. Alternatively, catch it from Beal to reach the island. This service connects with Arriva X18 and X15 (at Beal).
Follow our full circular walk around the Holy Island of Lindisfarne here
