Farne Islands and Lindisfarne Castle free to explore as part of Heritage Open Days
Visitors can explore two of Northumberland's most iconic National Trust places for free as part of Heritage Open Days.
Free admission to the Farne Islands on September 12-13 and Lindisfarne Castle on September 19-20 will give visitors the chance to uncover centuries of history, enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and discover the remarkable stories that have shaped this special stretch of coastline.
While boat fares to the Farne Islands still apply and pre-booking is advised, entry to both National Trust attractions is free.
A boat trip from Seahouses transports visitors to the Farne Islands, where they can spend an hour exploring Inner Farne's rich cultural heritage, visit St Cuthbert's Chapel and take in views of Bamburgh Castle and Longstone Lighthouse, former home of Victorian heroine Grace Darling.
Although the seabird season has ended, visitors can view the islands’ resident Atlantic grey seals.
The following weekend, visitors can cross the Holy Island causeway to explore Lindisfarne Castle. Originally a 16th-century fort, the castle was transformed into a private holiday home by renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens for Edward Hudson, founder of Country Life magazine, and the beautiful garden, designed by Gertrude Jekyll, is a peaceful spot to sit awhile.
The two sites offer contrasting but connected stories from Northumberland's coast.
The Farne Islands have been associated with St Cuthbert for more than 1,300 years and are home to centuries of maritime history, wildlife conservation and lighthouse heritage.
On Holy Island, visitors can discover the castle's fascinating interiors, the dramatic shoreline setting, the unexpectedly grand industrial lime kilns and the enduring influence of two of Britain's most celebrated designers, Lutyens and Jekyll.