If you can’t be inspired with a drive up the east coast from Newcastle to Scotland, there is something missing.
The strong imposing hills of the Northumberland national park carve the horizon on your left, or if you are fortunate to have the time and weather, turn a drive into an exciting set of hills, curves and spellbounding countryside. Sadly this time, we were confined to the A1 as storm Babet left the roads questionable if we ventured off the main routes.
However, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne shouted at us for a visit as we made our way up the A1, and was a perfect stop for our lunch.
The tides were pefect, and we crossed the causeway to the small carpark. A short curse at modern technology – as I battled the parking app – was quickly forgotten as we explored the small village of Lindsfarne, and strolled the exposed path towards the castle.
Rolling white horses of the north sea formed a curtain of spray on the horizon, however, out of the wind, the sun gave a welcoming relieving warmth as we approached the castle to enjoy the view of the harbour, and, as highlighted by the guide, the tranquil silence that seams to just bestow the atmosphere of the castle.
A fascinating explore of the castle, was made more relevant after our recent visit to Castle Drago, both castles being designed or redeveloped by renowed architect Edwin Lutyens.
The most enjoyable bit for me was reading the story of the guests who visited the castle once it became a hotel. The bittersweet love story weaves itself through the walls, corridors and rooms, that have been presereved so delicatley by the National Trust, our membership being well and truly maxed.
