The Farne Islands are one of Northumberland's most spectacular wildlife destinations, attracting thousands of visitors each year. As a landscape artist, I've always been drawn to places where nature takes centre stage, and a recent boat trip to the islands offered the perfect opportunity to immerse myself in the region's incredible wildlife and gather inspiration for future paintings.
Setting Sail for the Farne Islands
Our journey began at Seahouses Harbour, where we boarded a Serenity boat tour bound for Inner Farne. The harbour was bustling with visitors eager to explore the islands, while fishing boats and tour vessels came and went against a backdrop of sea air and sunshine.
As we headed out into open water, we were treated to wonderful views of Bamburgh Castle standing proudly on the shoreline, with the Cheviot Hills fading into the distance. My sketchbook and camera were packed and ready, and anticipation was building. Expectations were particularly high after hearing that orcas had been spotted on one of the morning trips. Although I wasn't daring to hope for that level of excitement, I knew there was every chance the day would offer something special.
Wildlife Encounters on the Journey
It didn't take long.
Shortly after leaving the harbour, the crew steered parallel to the coastline and suddenly there they were – a pod of dolphins swimming alongside us. Although I've visited the Farne Islands before, this was my very first time seeing dolphins in the wild.
Watching them leap effortlessly from the water and weave around the boat was an unforgettable experience. At one point they appeared to be racing alongside us, before circling back and disappearing beneath the waves. There was a real sense of excitement on board as everyone stopped what they were doing to watch.
As we continued towards Longstone Lighthouse, we passed Staple Island where kittiwakes and guillemots crowded the cliffs. The noise was astonishing. Thousands of birds called to one another in a constant chorus that echoed across the sea. It was a wonderful reminder that the Farne Islands are one of the UK's most important seabird colonies.
Exploring the National Trust Island
The Farne Islands have long been a sanctuary for wildlife and a place of deep cultural and historical significance. Managed by the National Trust, the islands are both a marine reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, providing vital protection for the wildlife that calls them home.
This was actually my first successful landing on Inner Farne. Previous attempts had been thwarted by bad weather, so stepping ashore felt particularly exciting. Thankfully, the sunshine was on our side and conditions couldn't have been better.
Walking along the boardwalks amongst the nesting seabirds was an experience I'll never forget. One thing I quickly learned was that wearing a hat is absolutely essential. The Arctic terns take their nesting duties very seriously and think nothing of swooping low over visitors' heads if they feel you're getting too close!
Although visitors can explore the chapel and visitor centre, I found myself most drawn to the wildlife and the breathtaking coastal views. Time passes quickly on the island and with only an hour allowed ashore, every minute felt precious.
Puffin Breeding Season on the Farne Islands
One of the main reasons we chose to visit at the end of May was to coincide with puffin breeding season.
Puffins have become synonymous with the Northumberland coast, and every year around 40,000 of these charismatic seabirds return to the Farne Islands to nest. Remarkably, they reunite with the same partner year after year, returning to their burrows to raise the next generation.
Seeing them up close was an absolute highlight of the trip. Their colourful beaks, expressive faces and slightly comical mannerisms make it easy to understand why they are often referred to as the "clowns of the sea".
We spent ages simply watching them come and go from their burrows, carrying nesting material and disappearing underground. Sadly, we were just a little too early to see any pufflings, but that gives me another reason to return in the future.
Puffin Tea Towel inspired by the Farne Island
Sketching the Island Chapel and Landscape
One of my favourite moments of the day came when we paused near Inner Farne Lighthouse to take in the atmosphere. It gave me just enough time to pull out my sketchbook and make a quick sketch of St Cuthbert's Chapel and Prior Castell's Tower.
Sketching under time pressure forces me to simplify what I see and make quick decisions about what is most important in a scene. In many ways, that's what makes location sketching such a valuable part of my creative process.
Over the years, sketching outdoors has completely transformed my art practice. Observing directly from life allows me to experience a place in a way that photographs alone never can. The shapes of the landscape, the movement of the birds, the changing light and colours, even the atmosphere and feeling of the day, all become part of the memory.
Not every sketch develops into a finished painting, but each one teaches me something. The act of sitting quietly and drawing encourages me to slow down and truly notice the world around me. Those observations often find their way into my work long after the sketchbook has been put away.
Why the Farne Islands Are a Paradise for Artists and Nature Lovers
The Farne Islands offer a unique combination of dramatic coastal scenery, fascinating wildlife and rich history. Whether you're a birdwatcher, photographer, nature enthusiast or artist, there's inspiration around every corner.
For me, trips like this are invaluable. They provide fresh ideas, new compositions and experiences that become woven into my paintings. Creating artwork inspired by places I've personally explored allows me to tell my own story and capture something of the connection I feel with the landscape.
From the excitement of seeing dolphins for the first time, to watching puffins tending their burrows and sketching historic buildings beneath blue skies, the day was filled with moments that will stay with me for a long time.
Final Thoughts
Neptunes - This was a smaller portion 'Fish Supper' Special!
After a day filled with wildlife, sea air and sketching, we rounded off our Farne Islands adventure in the best possible way – with a fish supper from Neptune's in Seahouses. It somehow wouldn't feel right to visit the Northumberland coast without enjoying fish and chips by the harbour!
If you're considering a trip to the Farne Islands, I can thoroughly recommend it. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, artist or simply someone who enjoys spending time in nature, it's a truly memorable experience. Just be sure to pack plenty of layers and waterproofs, as it can feel surprisingly chilly once you're out at sea, even on a sunny day. And don't forget a hat – not only for the weather, but also to protect yourself from the determined Arctic terns defending their nests overhead!
We visited on a sunny Sunday afternoon and the island was understandably busy. At some of the popular viewpoints there was a little waiting involved to get the best views of the puffins and seabird colonies. If you're hoping for a quieter experience, it may be worth considering a weekday visit or travelling outside peak times.
For me, the highlights were undoubtedly seeing dolphins in the wild for the very first time, watching puffins disappear into their burrows, and finding a few precious moments to sketch amongst such an extraordinary landscape. It was a day full of inspiration and one that I'm sure will influence my artwork for months to come. The Farne Islands truly are one of Northumberland's most remarkable places, and I left feeling inspired, refreshed and eager to return. Next time I'm returning in the autumn to see the seals!
Longstone Lighthouse - Greetings Card
