Books about Holy Island (Lindisfarne)

I’ve collected some of the most popular books about the island or that feature the island. I’ll expand the list as I go along. You can click on each book cover to order it on Amazon (disclosure: these are affiliate links, so we’ll get a small commission on every sale, which we appreciate).

The two books at the top were written by Holy Island residents, and provide a unique perspective, though they are sometimes out of print on Amazon. I also added maps that you might find useful.

Kate Tristram Holy Island Book cover

The Story of Holy Island

By Kate Tristram

A great example of how history can come to life when told by someone connected to the place they are writing about. Island resident Kate Tristram is a historian and priest and above all a great story-teller.

Peter Mortimer - 100 Days on Holy Island - book cover

100 Days on Holy Island

By Peter Mortimer

Peter Mortimer's mission to spend 100 days on Holy Island in 2001 and write a book about it was met with suspicion on the island. For some, it is still a sore point, and others have embraced his work as a snapshot of a moment in time through his prism. Either way, it is an interesting read.

Magnus Magnusson - Lindisfarne the cradle island - book cover

Lindisfarne, The cradle Island

By Magnus Magnusson

The author's name, Magnus Magnusson, pretty much says it all. An in-depth guide to Holy Island's history, saints, natural environment etc etc. A worthwhile tome for fans of completeness. Published in 2014.

Lindisfarne Map

Holy Island Map

By Paul Frodsham

We love this map so much, we leave a copy for our guests to use during their visit. It includes a map of the island, a street plan of the village, a list of places to visit and a brief history. Really well done.

Holy Island and Bamburgh - OS map

Holy Island and Bamburgh Map

Ordnance Survey

Ordnance Survey's Map 340 Holy Island and Bamburgh. Recommended for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. Includes a digital version of the paper map, accessed through the OS smartphone app.

John Bevan Holy Island book cover

Holy Island Isle of Winds

By John Bevan

Written by Holy Island local, John Bevan, this illustrated book provides insights into the island’s character and history, for visitors who wish to get the 'insider view' of the island. Available in paperback.

Peter Moffat - Island of tides - book cover

Peter Moffat - Island of tides

By Peter Moffat

Moffat embarks on a secular pilgrimage in the footsteps of St Cuthbert to Holy Island, starting in Melrose. He attempts to understand the saint/the man through the lens of history and gain a deeper appreciation of the landscapes/events that shaped him and his image.

Adam - Holy Island - book cover

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne

By David Adam

The author's enthusiasm for Holy Island and its history shines through this book that takes us through the heritage of saints Aidan and Cuthbert, the Viking attack on Lindisfarne, the Castle and present day (as it was in 2009).

LJ Ross - Holy Island - book cover

Holy Island

By LJ Ross

If you're a fan of Holy Island and murder mysteries, this book by bestselling author LJ Ross is for you. It is the first in the DCI Ryan series and her debut novel.

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