Farne Islands puffin trip

Seahouses, Northumberland

LocationSeahouses, Northumberland
CostBoat trips typically cost £25 to £50, plus landing fees on some islands.
Best timeLate April to July for puffins.
How long2 to 4 hours

What to expect

The Farne Islands, off the Northumberland coast, are home to tens of thousands of seabirds, including puffins that nest between roughly April and July. Boat trips run from Seahouses, and some tours land on islands such as Inner Farne. Arctic terns can be aggressive near their nests, so a hat is a good idea. Sailings depend on sea conditions.

Tips before you go

Book or plan it

Tours, tickets and places to stay

Prices and availability change, so compare. These are affiliate links.

Where to base yourself

A weekend in NorthumberlandNorthumberland

Castles, empty beaches, dark skies and Hadrian's Wall

What to pack

Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.

More kit guides: Wet-weather gear Walking gear

Related activities

Hadrian's Wall walkNorthumberland

Hadrian's Wall Path is an 84-mile National Trail across northern England, but you can enjoy short sections in a weekend.

Durham Cathedral visitDurham, County Durham

Durham Cathedral is a masterpiece of Norman architecture beside the castle on a loop of the River Wear, together a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Blakeney Point seal tripBlakeney and Morston, Norfolk

Blakeney Point is a long sand and shingle spit on the north Norfolk coast, and a nature reserve with large colonies of grey and common seals.

Frequently asked questions

Will I see puffins?

In season, puffins are very likely to be seen on the islands and nearby waters. They leave the islands after breeding, usually by early August.

Plan a weekend around this

Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and conditions change, so check with the provider before you go.

Tours, tickets and stays