'Most beautiful place' in UK where thousands visit to 'discover magic'

Holidaymakers craving a magical getaway don't need to worry about the expense of flying abroad to find one - an "enchanting" haven sits right on Northumberland's shoreline. Lindisfarne, known as Holy Island, boasts incredible history and is regularly celebrated as one of Britain's most breathtaking spots.

The tiny population of roughly 160 residents in this small retreat swells to over 650,000 as visitors flock from around the world each year to witness its magic, the Lindisfarne websiteconfirms. Travel experts at holidaycottages.co.ukhave identified the circular path around its coast as among Northumberland's most stunning, where plentiful wildlife and ancient monuments can be spotted along the way.

READ MORE: UK's most beautiful railway station crowned and it's in tiny fairytale village

For guests needing somewhere to stay while exploring this unique spot, numerous holiday homes are on offer for booking on Lindisfarne itself, reports Teesside Live. One charming choice is Deja Blue, an 18th-century dwelling dubbed "steeped in history and charm" - providing a perfect retreat in one of England's most historically significant locations.

Sleeping up to five people plus a pooch, Deja Blue offers stunning views over the village green on Holy Island where Queen Elizabeth II planted a tree during her 1958 trip, and has earned acclaim as a "lovely home from home" from guests. The property is positioned directly in the heart of the village, just moments away from Holy Island's spectacular ancient landmarks, and remains incredibly popular with bookings fully secured until 2026.

Starting at £582 for a week-long break, Deja Blue stands as one of only three cottages available for Holy Island on holidaycottages.co.uk, alongside Tidal Cottage from £819 for seven nights, and St Coombs Farmhouse from £1,305 for seven nights.

Over on Sykes Holiday Cottages, visitors will find merely two properties on offer: Causeway Cottage from £575, and Curlew Cottage from £660, both accommodating up to six guests. Availability and prices might vary depending on the season and the time of booking.

Holy Island's rich heritage remains vibrantly present today, with historical treasures dotted throughout the island, from the captivating Lindisfarne Castle perched above the shoreline to the 12th-century remains of Lindisfarne Priory, formerly home to medieval Northumbrian monks and saints.

READ MORE: British beach dubbed 'UK's answer to the Seychelles' named the prettiest

Under English Heritage management, admission to Lindisfarne Priory is priced at £9 for adults and £5 for children, with the organisation describing it as "among the most atmospheric of England's historic sites".

English Heritage characterises Holy Island as having an "otherworldly aura", and describes Lindisfarne Priory: "It echoes with the memories of the monks and saints of Anglo-Saxon and medieval Northumbria. It also offers abundant wildlife and wonderful coastal views."

Meanwhile, Lindisfarne Castle remains under National Trust stewardship, welcoming visitors throughout the week with tickets costing £12 for adults and £6 for children. What's more, the magnificent Gertrude Jekyll walled garden alongside comes free of charge, having been crafted in 1911 and exploding with fragrance and vibrant hues throughout summer.

Lindisfarne offers far more than just historical appeal - its seaside location creates a haven for wildlife and nature lovers, whilst providing the perfect backdrop for spectacular scenery.

Visit Northumberland captures it perfectly: "Words cannot describe the magic of The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, particularly as you cross the causeway, admiring staggering views as you go, and feel as though you are entering a secret world as you approach the island."

It's precisely this enchantment that saw The Times crown Lindisfarne amongst England's most stunning locations earlier this year, describing it as a "mystical place" offering "a real sense of peace".

The publication justified its choice by noting: "The island's name dates back to the time when this was an early outpost of Christianity, and whether you're a believer or not, it remains a place of serenity and contemplation, which puts daily life into perspective."

If you're planning a visit to Holy Island, it's vital to check the tide crossing times, as the island becomes cut off twice daily due to the tide - leading to hundreds of drivers needing emergency rescue each year. Northumberland County Council strongly urges visitors not to attempt to travel to and from the island during a rising tide - a full list of safe crossing times can be found here.