Lindisfarne Priory

Lindisfarne Priory is one of the most significant sites of early Christian history in England. The ruins of this medieval Benedictine monastery stand on Holy Island, a small tidal island off the coast of Northumberland in north-east England. The site is a Grade I listed monument and is open to visitors under the care of English Heritage.

What is the history of Lindisfarne Priory?

The first monastery on the island was founded by Saint Aidan in 635. The community of monks quickly became an important religious and cultural centre. Saint Cuthbert, one of the most revered saints of early England, was buried here, and the Lindisfarne Gospels, the celebrated illuminated manuscript, were produced at the monastery.

Viking raids disturbed that peace. The attack of 793 is among the best-known events marking the start of the Viking Age in Europe, and further raids, including one in 875, led the monks to leave the island in the 10th century. The community later returned to Holy Island.

The ruins you can see today date from the 12th century and are thought to stand on the site of the original monastery. Monastic life ended with the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII, in the 1530s.

What is there to see?

Parts of the stone walls of the church and the monastic buildings survive on the site. A museum beside the ruins tells the story of the priory and the cult of Saint Cuthbert. It is a good place to understand why such a small island played such a large role in the history of Christianity in the British Isles.

How do you get to Holy Island?

The island is linked to the mainland by a causeway that is cut off twice a day by the incoming tide. Check tide tables before you set out, because they decide when you can cross safely. The nearest railway station is Berwick-upon-Tweed, from where you can continue by public transport. Walkers can also cross the sands along the historic Pilgrims' Way, but only with careful attention to the tides.

Planning your visit

• Opening times can be set around the tides, so check the current schedule on the English Heritage website.
• Booking ahead is recommended; current admission prices are also published by the site operator.
• Accessibility is limited: reaching the ruins involves a few steps and a fairly steep slope, and there are no accessible toilets on site.
• Allow extra time to explore the island, as the priory is just one of Holy Island's attractions.

Frequently asked questions

When was Lindisfarne Priory founded? The first monastery was founded in 635 by Saint Aidan.

Can you visit at any time of day? No. Visiting hours depend on the tides, so check them before you arrive.

What is Lindisfarne known for? The burial place of Saint Cuthbert, the Lindisfarne Gospels, and one of the first well-known Viking raids on England in 793.

Who looks after the site? English Heritage manages the ruins.