Just off the coast of Northumberland, (England) lies a group of some 20 tidal islands. Divided into groups they are also known as ‘Farnes‘. Apart from a few seasonal bird wardens, they are uninhabited, rugged and bleak, the smallest islands are just bare, rocky peaks, while the largest support vegetation on peaty soil. Photo by: hsacdirk

To the north of Farnes lies mystical Lindisfarne, also emerged as Holy Island. Connecting by a tidal causeway to the mainland, much of it is a National Nature Reserve, protecting internationally important winter populations and rare migrant birds. There is Lindisfarne monestery locate in one of the most important early Christian sites of Eng;and. Also on the island is Tudor castle. Owned by the National Trust, it was built in the 1570s and restored by Edwin Lutyens in 1901. Photo by: iancowe

When to go: The best time for birds is during autumn and winter, but Lindisfarne is at its best during spring and summer. Population: The Farne Islands are uninhabited. Lindisfarne 162. How to get there: By boat to the Farnes, foot or car to Lindisfarne, depending on the tides. Photo by: law_keven

Highlights: Scuba diving over the many wrecks surrounding the Farne Islands. The ruined Lindisfarne monastery, its museum and visitor centre. Photo by: left-hand

Photo by: gingiber