Explore Farne Islands

The Farne Islands lie two to three miles off the Northumberland coast midway between the fishing village of Seahouses and the magnificent Castle of Bamburgh. There are between 15 and 20 islands depending on the state of the tide. From April until the end of July, these islands are dominated by one of the most exciting seabird colonies in the United Kingdom with unrivalled views of 23 species, including around 43,000 pairs of puffins. Truly, the sight of such numbers in the natural and wild habitat of the Farne Islands is a beauty and joy to behold. The islands are also the permanent home for a large, and inquisitive colony of Atlantic or Grey Seals. This is one of the top grey seal pupping sites in England, with more than 2000 pups born out at the islands every Autumn/Winter.

Staple and Inner Farne islands are open to the public, both of which we are very fortunate to be permitted to visit. These islands are managed by the National Trust so separate entrance fees apply. Staple Island is open May – July and is a rocky, back to nature experience which offers unrivalled close-up views of puffins and appeals to a sense of adventure and freedom. Inner Farne is open April – October and is home to dive-bombing terns, a medieval chapel, Victorian lighthouse, and information centre all served by an easy access boardwalk.

Historically, the islands have strong links with Celtic Christianity and St Cuthbert, who lived here in the 7th Century.

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