Contest #422: Lindisfarne Castle, Holy Island, Northumberland, UK

Sited on the east coast of the UK, disputed territory in the 16th century between English and Scots, with occasional forays from Vikings thrown in. Built in 1550 the original structure was barely more than a fort. Originally ordered built by Henry VIII the place was woefully inadequate to the task of defending itself. Elizabeth I ordered improvements, undertaken in the 1570s. When James I & VI came to the throne in 1603, uniting the kingdoms of England and Scotland, the need for defensive fortifications ceased. Despite occasional use as a coastguard lookout, and tourist attraction it sank into desuetude. By the time Charles Rennie Mackintosh sketched it in 1901 it was not in good shape. Fortunately Edward Hudson, very rich publisher of Country Life, bought the place and commissioned the architect Sir Edward Lutyens to remodel the remains in the Arts & Crafts style. Since those days it has passed into the ownership of the National Trust who are now responsible for the castle and grounds. National Trust Lindisfarne web page.

One of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s sketches of the castle.
Castle seen from the church ruins.
The church, castle looming in the distance.
A bit more close up. Nice perspective, using the fence.

And, two shots taken by Karel, for five years runner of the WOGE page. He just happened to have visited Lindisfarne Castle. Completely coincidental, we assure you.

Low tide.
Tourists headed towards the castle.

Those that knew where to stage a raid, or mount a defense on their own:

  • steve willis
  • Garfield
  • Lighthouse
  • Phil Ower
  • Paul Voestermans
  • Chris Nason
  • Lelie
  • Eloy Cano
  • donaaronio

And, those that need some additional planning. Or a sketch.

  • Jason Hattermann
  • Cloudspotter
  • RicardPG
  • Jeff
  • Marisa Boraas
  • Max_Power