Lindisfarne Priory, Holy Island (Northumberland)

Lindisfarne Priory has been a place of pilgrimage for 1,300 years.

Summary 13th century buildings (or older) Gift shop Information provided

Introduction

Lindisfarne Priory, cut off from the world by the tide twice a day, sits on the serene and beautiful Holy Island of Lindisfarne. The priory is famed as the home and original burial ground of St Cuthbert and is still a place of pilgrimage today. Take in panoramic views of the Northumbrian coast, unpack a picnic in the priory grounds and take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Stroll around the richly-decorated, extensive ruins of the Monastic buildings which formed the living quarters of the monks, the remote setting adding to the unique atmosphere of the Priory.

Wander and explore the fascinating history of this site in the visitor centre. With lively interpretation discover the enthralling story of the monks who lived on Holy Island, once one of the most important centres of early Christianity. Learn about the grisly Viking invasions and the part which Henry VIII played in the history of the Priory. The causeway floods at high tide, so it is very important to check the tide times before crossing. Stay on this unique island over the tide, get away from it all and experience true island life.

History to the present day

Lindisfarne Priory on Holy Island was one of the most important centres of early Christianity in Anglo-Saxon England. It is still a place of pilgrimage today, the dramatic approach across the causeway adding to the fascination of the site.

St Aidan founded the monastery in AD 635, but St Cuthbert, Prior of Lindisfarne, is the most celebrated of the priory's holy men. After many missionary journeys, and ten years as a hermit on lonely Farne Island, he reluctantly became Bishop before retiring to die on Farne in 687. Buried in the priory, his remains were transferred to a pilgrim shrine there after eleven years, and found still undecayed - a sure sign of sanctity.

From the end of the 8th century, the isolated island with its rich monastery was easy prey for Viking raiders. In 875 the monks left, carrying Cuthbert's remains, which after long wanderings were enshrined in Durham Cathedral in 1104, where they still rest. Only after that time did Durham monks re-establish a priory on Lindisfarne. The evocative ruins of the richly decorated priory church they built in c. 1150 still stand, with their famous 'rainbow arch' - a vault-rib of the now-vanished crossing tower. The small community lived quietly on Holy Island until the suppression of the monastery in 1537.

This fascinating museum offers a clear and dynamic interpretation of the story of St Cuthbert and the 1,300 year history of Lindisfarne Priory.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Lindisfarne Priory, Northumberland, , United Kingdom

Opening times:

1 Apr-30 Sep 9.30am-5pm

1 Oct-1 Nov 9.30am-4pm

2 Nov-31 Jan 10am-2pm Mon, Sat, & Sun

1 Feb-31 Mar 10am-4pm

24-26 Dec and 1 Jan Closed

The causeway floods at high tide, so it is very important to check the tide times before crossing

Admission prices:

Adult:£4.20

Children:£2.10

Concession:£3.60

Photographs copyright English Heritage Photographic Library.