Farne Islands

The Farne Islands (also referred to less formally as the Farnes) are a group of islands off the coast of Northumberland, England. There are between 15 and 20 or more islands depending on the state of the tide. They are scattered about 2.5–7.5 km (1 1/2–4 3/4 miles) distant from the mainland, divided into two groups, the Inner Group and the Outer Group.

The main islands in the Inner Group are Inner Farne, Knoxes Reef and the East and West Wideopens (all joined together on very low tides) and (somewhat separated) the Megstone; the main islands in the Outer Group are Staple Island, the Brownsman, North and South Wamses, Big Harcar and the Longstone. The two groups are separated by Staple Sound. The highest point, on Inner Farne, is 19 metres (62 feet) above mean sea level.

As well as being popular with bird watchers, the Farne Islands are a popular scuba diving location. The islands appeal to divers for these reasons: there are seals, wrecks and a variety sites suitable for all levels of diver. The grey seal colony at the Farnes which numbers about 5,000 are curious and will often look in on divers in the water; in addition to this they are impressive to watch underwater.