Land on Inner Farne or Longstone, or sail around the Farne Islands, a few miles off the Northumberland Coast, to see the thousands of seabirds that come here to breed each year. Get a close look at Atlantic grey seals and, during the breeding season, many species of seabird including puffins, terns, guillemots and eider ducks.
Inner Farne is arguably the most historic of the Farne Islands, where centuries of human life meet a wild coastal landscape. Alongside seabirds and seals, you’ll discover buildings that tell stories of saints, lighthouse keepers and island life shaped by the North Sea.
St Cuthbert’s Chapel marks the site where St Cuthbert lived as a hermit in the 7th century. The stone buildings seen today are later rebuilds, but the island remains one of Northumberland’s most important early Christian sites.
The Pele Tower and lighthouse cottage reflect Inner Farne’s changing use over time, from religious retreat to working island. These sturdy buildings once housed lighthouse keepers and their families in tough, isolated conditions.
Above it all stands Inner Farne Lighthouse, first lit in 1811 to make this dangerous stretch of coastline safer for ships. While not open to climb, it’s an iconic landmark and key part of the island’s maritime history.
As you explore, follow the boardwalk and ranger guidance to help protect both the historic buildings and the internationally important wildlife that share this special place.
You’ll see different things around the Farnes, depending on what time of year you visit. We've put together a calendar to help you plan your trip around the wildlife.
Please note that all timings are approximate, as weather and other factors can affect migration, nesting and breeding times. If in doubt, call ahead to check what you’ll be able to see.
Jan–Mar
Inner Farne is closed, but you can see grey seals and shags from the boats. Seals will be lolling around, digesting their fish supper, while shags are a year-round highlight.
It’s a time of firsts and lasts – will you spot the first puffins in the water, a fulmar migrating for spring, or the last furry white seal pups? You might also experience some of the tough conditions faced by past human inhabitants.
Hop on a boat at Seahouses, Northumberland, and see how many of the Farnes’ 28 islands you can spot on the trip.
The islands are divided into two clusters – the Inner Farnes and the Outer Farnes. When you get close to the former, look out for Inner Farne, Knoxes Reef, and East and West Wideopen (all of which are joined together at low tide); as well as Megstone. As you approach the Outer Farnes, look for Staple, Brownsman, North and South Wamses, Big Harcar and Longstone.
Book a landing trip to Inner Farne. The wildlife on the Farne Islands is their biggest draw. Though the islands are most famous for puffins and seals, you’ll see many other species too. Depending on the time of year you visit ( May - July) you could spot shags, kittiwakes, razorbills, eider ducks and guillemots.
Bring binoculars if you have some, to help you spot all the different species. You can buy wildlife guides specific to the Farne Islands in the National Trust shop in Seahouses.
Visit in the breeding season (May to July) and you’ll be able to see these endearing birds up close. During this period, the Farne Islands host up to 23 species of birds, including around 40,000 pairs of puffins.
Whether you're an expert or a novice, you’ll discover photo opportunities everywhere you turn. You can catch the seals popping their heads out of the sea or lounging on the rocks. If you have a better camera, it's worth bringing it, but bear in mind that it can get wet and windy out there.
Please note: We only allow photography for private, non-commerical use on the Farne Islands. Drones are not permitted, either over the Farne Islands or at any other National Trust site.
Have a look at the National Trust’s ‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’ and see which activities you might be able to tick off your list while you’re here – they're a great starting point for family outdoor adventures.
So many seabirds visit the Farnes, you’ll be able to go birdwatching without even trying.
Find out how to get to the Farne Islands, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
To sail around the Farne Islands, or land on Inner Farne you need to catch a boat from Seahouses harbour. It's recommended that you book your boat trip in advance. Read on to find out how to book and what to expect from your trip, and things to think about as you plan your visit.
Learn about the grey seal colony on the Farnes, as well as other seals that call the Islands home.
Find out more about how we care for Farne Islands in Northumberland, from repairing the boardwalks to surveying seals and ringing birds to track their movements.
Discover how the Farne Islands have proved to be the ideal location for many structures over the centuries, from a monastery and chapels to a pele tower and several lighthouses.
