![Holy Island, Northumberland](https://images.suitcasemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/10200347/five-lesser-known-places-to-explore-in-englands-wildest-county-northumberland_652f5f07834eb.jpeg)
The Holy Island of Lindisfarne
United Kingdom
Why we can't wait to visit again: It's a divine destination - no, literally. Accessible only by boat or a tide-dependent causeway, this chip of Northumbrian land encircled by North Sea waves has drawn devout pilgrims seeking spiritual refuge for centuries. The Lindisfarne Priory - founded in 635 AD - is the focal point for those steadfast in prayer, but there's much more to explore here besides. Head across at low tide to pick up a cup of joe from Pilgrims Coffee, the island's sole roastery, then dive into the myth-laden history of the hilltop Tudor castle that glares out across the sea. Afternoons are best spent sampling the archipelago's excellent alcoholic creations: mead from St Aidan's Winery and gin at the new-fangled Holy Island distillery. It's a great spot for twitching, too - the on-island nature reserve is home to wigeons, merlins and pale-bellied brent geese.
Where to stay: Manor House Hotel