Sheldrake Pool

Bay in Northumberland

England

Sheldrake Pool

Holy Island The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, commonly known as either Holy Island or Lindisfarne, is a tidal island which lies off the northeast coast of England, to the north of Bamburgh and the tidal estuary-like mud flats of Budle Bay. It is only accessible from the mainland at low tide by means of a modern causeway, which can be reached from the village of Beal, and an ancient pilgrims&#039; path that runs over sand and mudflats and which are covered with water at high tide.

The island itself is about 3 miles wide from west to east and about one and a half miles from north to south. At the 2011 census, the island had a population of 180. Which is boosted by the well over 650,000 visitors coming from all over the world every year. Locally the island is rarely referred to by its Anglo-Saxon name of &#039;Lindisfarne&#039;. Following on from the savage attacks on the monastery by the Vikings in 793AD, it obtained its local name “Holy Island” from the observations made by the Durham monks: &#039;Lindisfarne - truly a &#039;Holy Island&#039; baptised in the blood of so many good men....’ But its more appropriate title is, &#039;The Holy Island of Lindisfarne&#039;. — Holy Island Credit: David Dixon

Sheldrake Pool is a picturesque bay located in Northumberland, a county in North East England. Nestled along the rugged coastline, this natural wonder is a hidden gem that offers visitors a tranquil and unspoiled environment.

The bay gets its name from the abundance of sheldrakes, a type of diving duck, that can be frequently spotted in the area. Sheldrake Pool is characterized by its pristine sandy beach, which stretches for approximately half a mile and is backed by magnificent sand dunes. The beach is ideal for long walks, sunbathing, or enjoying a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the North Sea.

The bay is also popular among birdwatchers, as it serves as an important habitat for a wide variety of bird species. Visitors can spot various seabirds, waders, and even the occasional rare bird, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and rocky outcrops, Sheldrake Pool is a haven for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking. The surrounding area is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering stunning views of the Northumberland coastline and the Farne Islands in the distance.

The bay is easily accessible, with a car park located nearby and public transportation options available. It is advisable to check the tides before visiting, as the beach can become submerged at high tide. Sheldrake Pool is a true hidden treasure, offering visitors a serene and idyllic coastal experience in the heart of Northumberland.

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Sheldrake Pool Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 55.676958/-1.7803799 or Grid Reference NU1342. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Holy Island

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, commonly known as either Holy Island or Lindisfarne, is a tidal island which lies off the northeast coast of England, to the north of Bamburgh and the tidal estuary-like mud flats of Budle Bay. It is only accessible from the mainland at low tide by means of a modern causeway, which can be reached from the village of Beal, and an ancient pilgrims' path that runs over sand and mudflats and which are covered with water at high tide. The island itself is about 3 miles wide from west to east and about one and a half miles from north to south. At the 2011 census, the island had a population of 180. Which is boosted by the well over 650,000 visitors coming from all over the world every year. Locally the island is rarely referred to by its Anglo-Saxon name of 'Lindisfarne'. Following on from the savage attacks on the monastery by the Vikings in 793AD, it obtained its local name “Holy Island” from the observations made by the Durham monks: 'Lindisfarne - truly a 'Holy Island' baptised in the blood of so many good men....’ But its more appropriate title is, 'The Holy Island of Lindisfarne'.

David Dixon

St. Mary The Virgin, Holy Island of Lindisfarne

When the abbey was rebuilt by the Normans, the site was moved. The site of the original priory church was redeveloped in stone as the parish church. As such it is now the oldest building on the island still with a roof on. Link

Brian Deegan

Lindisfarne Priory Remains, Holy Island

Some of the stonework would have been used to build the Castle in the 1500's but I would think there were lots of changes here over the years. Very interesting place. Link

Brian Deegan

St Cuthbert's Island, Lindisfarne

St Bede the Venerable (died 735AD) Mentioned a Chapel used by Cuthbert believed to be on this island. The ruin's visible to the left of the Cross are possible Norman as the Chapel used by Cuthbert would have been made of wood. St Bede >> Link

St Cuthbert >> Link

Brian Deegan

Literally a Boat Shed, Lindisfarne

Upturned boat converted to a shed / store

Brian Deegan

Stone Piles, Lindisfarne

Lots of hours work here..

Brian Deegan

Castle Point Lime Kilns, Lindisfarne

The Castle Point lime kilns are a Scheduled Ancient monument and one of the best-preserved examples of their kind anywhere in country. Built around the 1860's Link

Brian Deegan

Lindisfarne Castle, Holy Island

A small fort was built on the near the Lindisfarne priory in around 1550, taking advantage of the island's strategic location. During the construction work, the priory buildings were used as a source of building stone. Link

Brian Deegan

View across Budle Bay to Holy Island

Chris Morgan

Church of St Mary in Lindisfarne

Tom Page

Ruins of Lindisfarne Priory

Tom Page

Boat on the mudflats of Holy Island Beach

Tom Page

Lindisfarne Castle

Tom Page

Christmas Day at Emmanuel Head

Occasional breaks in the cloud helped the sun to break through and illuminate the daymark at Emmanuel Head, at the north east of Holy Island. This photograph was taken during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic of 2020/21.

James T M Towill

Castle and Fort

Looking to the ruined fort at the east end of The Heugh on Holy Island with Lindisfarne Castle standing proud in the distance.

Adam Ward

Sandham Bay, Dusk

The nearly full moon - a day short of being full - is just rising above the sea as seen from Sandham Bay on Holy Island with the beacon at Emmanuel Head reflected in the wet sand.

Adam Ward