Step onto Longstone Island with Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips for an exclusive look at the historic Longstone Lighthouse, rich seabird colonies, and heroic maritime history along Northumberland’s wild coast.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves moderate walking on uneven terrain
Wildlife
History
Longstone Lighthouse is closely linked to Grace Darling, who famously rescued shipwreck survivors in 1838, cementing its place in maritime heritage.
Conservation
Access restrictions and controlled landings by Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips help protect vulnerable seabird colonies and minimize human impact.
Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips
Step onto Longstone Island with Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips for an exclusive look at the historic Longstone Lighthouse, rich seabird colonies, and heroic maritime history along Northumberland’s wild coast.
Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips operates from Seahouses, England, offering guided boat trips to the Farne Islands and landings on protected islands. The company specialises in wildlife-focused experiences, including landings at Inner Farne National Trust Bird Sanctuary, exclusive tours of Longstone Lighthouse, and shorter seabird and seal cruises. Expert commentary is provided by experienced lighthouse attendants and local guides, delivering history, conservation context, and species identification for Puffins, Guillemots, Razorbills and Grey Seals.
All trips follow National Trust and seabird protection guidelines and use vessels equipped for safe coastal operations. Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips is the only operator permitted to land on Longstone Island for tours of the historic Longstone Lighthouse and the Grace Darling story, ensuring a unique access experience. Inner Farne landings focus on seabird colonies and breeding behaviour, while the Seabird & Seal Cruise offers a 1.5-hour wildlife-viewing loop around the islands without landing.
Booking is recommended in advance, particularly during spring and summer when Puffins and seal pups are most visible. The company emphasises responsible wildlife viewing, maintaining safe distances and minimising disturbance to breeding birds and seals. Safety briefings are provided before departure and boats are crewed by trained skippers familiar with local tides and navigation around skerries.
Golden Gate Farne Islands Boat Trips works with local conservation partners to support monitoring and public education. Visitors can expect knowledgeable narration, opportunities for photography, and clear guidance to ensure memorable, respectful wildlife encounters in one of England’s most important seabird habitats. and conservation.
Departure Base
Seahouses
Launch point on the Northumberland coast
Tours Offered
3 Trips
Inner Farne, Longstone, Seabird & Seal
Exclusive Access
Longstone Landing
Only operator permitted to land
Wildlife Focus
Puffins & Seals
Seabirds and Grey Seal colonies
Reserve Inner Farne landings, the exclusive Longstone Lighthouse tour, or the 1.5-hour Seabird & Seal Cruise — limited places, book early.
Book Early
This exclusive tour has limited availability due to landing restrictions; secure your spot well in advance.
Dress in Layers
Coastal weather can shift quickly—windproof and waterproof layers keep you comfortable on the boat and island.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance birdwatching of puffins and terns nesting on the cliffs with a good pair of binoculars.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Island terrain includes rocky paths and uneven surfaces; solid shoes improve safety and footing.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against sea spray and sudden coastal rain showers.
Binoculars
Enhances viewing of seabirds and distant islands.
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Necessary for navigating rocky, uneven island paths safely.
Layered Clothing
Allows for quick temperature regulation in variable coastal weather.