The beautiful and historic island of Lindisfarne in Northumberland is a tourist hot spot during the summer months, and with thousands flocking to its shores, visitors have been reminded of the dangers  

Lindisfarne, also known as Holy Island, is only accessible at low tide via a tidal causeway meaning there is a persistent danger of being stranded by swiftly rising tides. 

Despite the warnings issued over many centuries, and today’s onsite digital signage giving tide times, around 10 to 20 vehicles are stranded each year – the latest in July this year. 

Vehicles can be submerged by the waters posing a real threat to life – not least those on duty for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and HM Coastguard who work to protect the public from the dangers of the sea at all times. 

The reminder is part of Northumberland County Council’s ‘Love it Like it’s Yours’ summer safety campaign. 
 

Councillor Gordon Stewart, Cabinet Member for Looking after our Communities and Chair of the Fire Authority, said: “It is crucial for visitors to heed these times strictly, as the tide rises rapidly and without warning, turning the causeway from a road to a waterway within a matter of minutes.  
 

“These incidents strain local emergency services and are, for the most part, avoidable with a little forethought. As they say ‘time and tide wait for no man’ - a truth which those who try to outrun the water soon learn. 
 

“Holy Island causeway offers a magical passage to a place rich in history and natural beauty, it also demands respect for the forces of nature. Visitors must remain vigilant and informed to enjoy a safe and memorable experience.” 
 

Councillor Colin Hardy, who represents the Norham ward which includes Holy Island, said: ”While almost everyone follows the guidance occasionally one or two don't. Please read the notices and enjoy your visit - getting stranded is no fun for anyone, believe me!” 

Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, North and East, said: “The RNLI would always urge visitors to observe the safety signage and safe crossing times when visiting. 
 

“To prevent people getting into difficulty, The Holy Island Task force is operating this summer. 

“It is a face-to- face team of water safety volunteers from Berwick-upon-Tweed and Seahouses. The team will be on the island in the carpark offering safety information and relaying the safe crossing times. 
 

“They have already been actively chatting with visitors to the island and hope to be present across the summer holiday period.” 
 

Daniel O’Connor, HM Coastguard Senior Coastal Operations Officer, said: "Every year vehicles and walkers are caught out on the Holy Island causeway. I would always encourage everyone to check tide times and if there is water on the road do not attempt to cross. 

“If you find yourself in trouble call 999 and ask for the Coastguard." 
 

Safe crossing times vary daily due to be changing ebb and flow of the tides. This previously made posting tide times on site difficult but new digital signs make keeping up to date with times and issuing flash weather warnings in real time much easier. 
 

Digital signs can also display important messages beyond crossing times, such as alerts for severe weather or emergency situations.  

This versatility ensures that visitors are well-informed about any potential hazards or unexpected events that might affect their journey leading to a more pleasant and stress-free experience. 
 

To check times go to: https://holyislandcrossingtimes.northumberland.gov.uk/ 

Lindisfarne is one of the most important centres of early English Christianity. Irish monks settled there in AD 635 and miracles were reported after the death of ishop Cuthbert who was later made a saint. 
 

The island became known as a place of Christian learning and the masterpiece now known as the Lindisfarne Gospels was created there in the early 8th century. It was abandoned after a Viking raid in 793.