Holidaymakers heading to this popular staycation spot are being warned of “serious dangers” with families left stranded, prompting urgent reminders to avoid turning a holiday into a rescue mission
One popular UK tourist spot has already led to dozens of rescue missions as holidaymakers ignore warning signs or forget to check them.
Holy Island’s iconic tidal causeway poses a serious risk to unprepared visitors, as the sea swiftly transforms a safe road into a breakwater – often catching holidaymakers off guard and forcing emergency rescues.
Despite the presence of clear warning signs, digital displays, and ongoing public safety campaigns, several motorists have already found themselves stranded this year. Last month alone, families were forced to abandon their vehicles and call 999 as the North Sea enveloped the causeway ahead of schedule.
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Northumberland County Council emphasises that the causeway is only safe to traverse during specific, clearly posted low-tide periods.
Venture beyond these hours, and the roadway can vanish underwater in a matter of moments with no opportunity for last-minute reversals.
Councillor Gordon Stewart, Cabinet Member for Public Safety, highlighted the scale of the problem: “Around 10 to 20 vehicles are stranded on the causeway each year, often with holidaymakers watching their cars – and their carefully planned breaks disappear under the water.”
He continued, warning that as staycations grow in popularity, “it is crucial for visitors to strictly observe the times because the tide rises rapidly and without warning, turning the causeway from a road to a waterway within a matter of minutes.”
Mr Stewart also expressed concern for emergency responders, with every preventable incident placing unnecessary strain on the RNLI and HM Coastguard, whose teams must rush to rescue stranded motorists.
Ryan Douglas, HM Coastguard Senior Coastal Operations Officer, echoed the warning: “HM Coastguard encourages members of the public to check tide times before visiting the coast and stick to the safe crossing times on Holy Island Causeway.
“Driving on the causeway when it’s flooded is incredibly dangerous.” He urged travellers to dial 999 and request the Coastguard if they do encounter trouble or see others at risk.
This appeal forms part of Northumberland’s ongoing “Love It Like It’s Yours” campaign, encouraging visitors to treat the region’s natural landscapes with care and respect.
In 2023 alone, the county, known for its sweeping hills and stunning countryside, welcomed 10.12 million visitors.
Holy Island is a tidal island that is only accessible at certain times of the day, but is a hugely popular historical spot for tourists.
Described as a “pint sized island” that holds pubs and cafés, it’s also home to the coastal Lindisfarne Castle and ancient Lindisfarne Priory.
According to their website: “Twice each day the tide sweeps in from the North Sea and covers the road. Tide times and heights can be accurately predicted from the phases of the Moon.
“Severe weather can produce offsets, particularly with strong winds from the North and Northeast. The causeway crossing times are forecasted ‘safe’ crossing times. Nevertheless, travellers should remain vigilant if crossing near the extremities.”
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