From Edinburgh: Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria

Set out on a captivating day trip from Edinburgh and discover the enchanting wonders of Northumbria. Explore the historic Holy Island of Lindisfarne, where the ancient priory stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage. Savor the unique Lindisfarne Mead and wander through the charming medieval streets of Alnwick, home to the opulent Alnwick Castle. This picturesque coastal adventure promises an unforgettable journey through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into its captivating history. What secrets and surprises await as you venture beyond the city walls?

Good To Know

• A day trip from Edinburgh to Northumbria region, exploring Holy Island of Lindisfarne, Alnwick Castle, and the scenic coastal route.
• Tour duration of 9 hours with a modern air-conditioned bus and knowledgeable driver-guide, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Key highlights include Lindisfarne Priory, Lindisfarne Mead, Alnwick Castle and Alnwick Garden, and a photo stop at Flodden Field Memorial.
• Tour starts at the Ensign Ewart pub in Edinburgh’s city center, with public transport options available for convenience.
• Tour is generally unsuitable for children under 4 years old, but collapsible wheelchairs are accommodated with assistance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

What better way to explore the stunning coastal region of Northumbria than a day trip from Edinburgh?

This popular tour is likely to sell out, so act fast. For just €66.10 per person, you’ll embark on a 9-hour adventure, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The modern air-conditioned bus and knowledgeable driver-guide will bring you on a scenic coastal route, allowing you to discover the highlights of this historic area.

From the holy island of Lindisfarne to the medieval market town of Alnwick, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

And with the option to reserve now and pay later, there’s no reason not to book your spot.

Itinerary Highlights

The scenic coastal route to Northumbria sets the stage for an adventure-filled day.

Visitors will explore the historic Holy Island of Lindisfarne, wandering the ruins of the Lindisfarne Priory and sampling the famous Lindisfarne Mead.

Next, it’s off to the medieval market town of Alnwick, where the Alnwick Castle and Alnwick Garden await. For those seeking a thrill, the castle’s imposing walls and dungeons are a must-see.

Afterwards, a photo stop at the Flodden Field Memorial commemorates a pivotal moment in history.

The day concludes with a relaxing break in the charming town of Coldstream before returning to Edinburgh.

Transportation and Meeting Point

Travelers will be whisked away in a modern, air-conditioned bus for the journey to Northumbria.

A friendly, knowledgeable driver-guide will provide live commentary, bringing the region’s history and culture to life.

The tour starts from the green Ensign Ewart pub in Edinburgh’s city center, so participants should allow extra time for arrival due to potential taxi shortages.

Public transport options like buses and trams are recommended.

Whether you’re exploring the medieval Alnwick Castle or the picturesque Holy Island of Lindisfarne, this tour offers a seamless and informative way to discover the highlights of Northumbria.

Important Information for Participants

Typically, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old, as youngsters aged 3 and younger aren’t permitted.

However, the tour does accommodate collapsible wheelchairs with assistance. Participants are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes, as the tour involves exploring historic sites and navigating uneven terrain.

While pets aren’t allowed, assistance dogs are permitted.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Glowing customer reviews and a stellar 4.6/5 rating based on over 800 reports underscore the tour’s widespread popularity among adventurous travelers. Reviewers frequently praise the knowledgeable and humorous guides, whose engaging storytelling and driving skills elevate the experience. The breathtaking landscapes along the scenic coastal route and well-organized itinerary also receive consistent acclaim. As seen in the table below, the tour earns top marks across key metrics, cementing its reputation as a must-do day trip from Edinburgh.

Metric	Rating
Overall	4.6/5
Guide Quality	4.8/5
Itinerary	4.7/5
Value	4.5/5

Scenic Coastal Route to Northumbria

The picturesque coastal road whisks visitors away from the bustling capital, guiding them through a tapestry of rolling hills, quaint villages, and breathtaking seascapes.

As the bus winds along the rugged Northumbrian coastline, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the North Sea, with its crashing waves and dramatic cliffs.

Along the way, the guide points out key landmarks, like the iconic Bamburgh Castle, perched atop a towering rock formation.

The journey is a feast for the senses, with the salty sea air and the ever-changing landscape keeping travelers captivated until they reach their first destination – the holy island of Lindisfarne.

Holy Island of Lindisfarne Exploration

Upon reaching the causeway to Holy Island, visitors eagerly anticipate the chance to explore the historic Lindisfarne Priory.

With its remarkable Anglo-Saxon architecture and a rich history dating back to the 7th century, the priory offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s monastic past.

• Guests can wander through the evocative ruins, imagining the daily lives of the monks who once inhabited this sacred site.

• The adjacent Lindisfarne Castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop, provides panoramic views of the island and the surrounding coastal scenery.

• Visitors can also sample the famous Lindisfarne Mead, a unique honey-based wine that has been produced on the island for centuries.

Medieval Market Town of Alnwick

After exploring the captivating Lindisfarne Priory, the tour makes its way to the medieval market town of Alnwick.

Travelers wander the charming streets, marveling at the town’s well-preserved architecture. The highlight is a visit to the iconic Alnwick Castle, a magnificent fortress that has starred in countless films and TV shows, including the Harry Potter series.

Visitors can tour the opulent state rooms and admire the castle’s stunning gardens. Those seeking a more whimsical experience shouldn’t miss the Alnwick Garden, a sprawling, modern garden with an enchanting treehouse and the world’s largest wooden treehouse.

With its rich history and enchanting attractions, Alnwick captivates all who visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Sure, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages on the tour. Just keep in mind there’ll be stops along the way where you can purchase refreshments too. Either way, pack whatever you’ll need to fuel your Northumbrian adventure!

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Stop on the Itinerary?

The tour allows ample time at each stop, with about an hour and a half to explore Lindisfarne Priory, browse Alnwick’s medieval market, and take in the sights at Flodden Field. There’s also a relaxed break in Coldstream before the return to Edinburgh.

Are Discounts Available for Seniors, Students, or Families?

This tour doesn’t offer any discounts, but with its free cancellation policy and pay later option, it’s a flexible and affordable way to explore Northumbria’s historic landmarks and stunning coastal scenery from Edinburgh.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies?

The tour can accommodate dietary needs and food allergies. Just let the provider know in advance, and they’ll work to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the beautiful Northumbrian countryside.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary or Add Extra Stops?

The tour offers a standard itinerary, but travelers can’t customize it or add extra stops. However, they can explore the sites at their own pace during the tour’s ample free time.

The Sum Up

Bidding farewell to the enchanting Holy Island, the journey continues to the historic Alnwick Castle. Explore its opulent state rooms, marvel at the stunning gardens, and wander through the charming medieval streets. This captivating day trip from Edinburgh offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences, leaving you with lasting memories of Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes and captivating history.

You can check if your dates are available here: