Farne Islands

This National Nature Reserve just off the Northumberland Coast is home to a large colony of Atlantic grey seals and, in early summer, around 200,000 breeding seabirds. The colourful and charismatic Puffins are arguably the stars of the show, with 43,000 pairs breeding here. Add to this the Sandwich and Arctic terns, eider ducks and cliffs packed with guillemots, razorbills and shags; This special place is host to one of the best wildlife spectacles in the UK.

April - September Visitors can book a landing trip to Inner Farne and walk amongst the thousands of seabirds that return here to breed every spring. To visit the colony during the breeding season is an unforgettable and awe inspiring wildlife experience. National Trust members land for free, a separate boat ticket fee applies.

Catch a boat from the harbour at Seahouses and sail around the Farne Islands to get a close look from the water at the thousands of birds and seals that come here to breed each year. Look out for curious seals popping their heads above the water or lounging on the rocks, stare up in wonder at cliffs jam packed with breeding birds and, if you're very lucky, you may spot dolphins from the boat.

With links to St Cuthbert who spent the last years of his life living on Inner Farne as a hermit, and the tranquil St Cuthbert's Chapel with it's 17th Century wood carvings and beautiful stained glass window, there is a wealth of history here to discover. Visit during a landing trip to Inner Farne.

The home of local heroine Grace Darling, take a boat trip that lands on the island and explore the iconic red and white lighthouse on a guided tour. Only one boat operator takes trips to this island - find out more by contacting Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips.

Pop into the shop in Seahouses before or after your boat trip round the Farne Islands for puffin souvenirs, postcards, homewares, gardening tools, books and more.