Castaway and escape the outside world at this picture-perfect period cottage squirrelled away on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, just a few miles off the Northumberland coast. Cut off twice daily from the mainland with the fast-moving tides of the North Sea, the island has a truly magical feel. Spend your days spotting seals sunning themselves on the coastline or bobbing through the waters. Stretch your legs with bracing walks along the vast unspoilt sandy shores – Coves Haven beach on the northern side of Holy Island is gloriously secluded. And soak up the historical splendour of the circa. 1550 Lindisfarne Castle rising from the rock face. When it's time to rest up at home, the charms of this cottage are hard to resist, with a wood-burning stove to nestle up beside and exposed beams and stonework bringing all the period allure. When thoughts turn to food, there's everything you could need to rustle up a bite to eat in the shaker-style kitchen – or skip cooking and head to the local pub, just a few minute's walk from your door. When it's time to say adieu, leaving this island haven is easier than you'd think. Time the tides right, and you'll be over the causeway and back on dry land in no time – the main Northumberland coast is just a few miles away.

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