Panel 4 - Tourism and The Farnes - 1930 to present day

Throughout the 19th Century Seahouses attracted the wealthy naturalist, birdwatcher and artist, who visited the area chiefly because of its proximity to the Farne Islands.

It was not until the 1929's that Seahouses began to develop as a holiday destination for the general public, with the greater mobility brought about by the growth of railway travel.

With just two hotels catering for the more affluent visitor, the majority of holidaymakers took 'lodgings' with local fishermen's families in their spare rooms, paying around £2 a week for their accommodation and all meals.

Then as now, the principal attraction of a stay in Seahouses - apart from the splendid beaches to north and south - was a boat trip out to the Farne Islands. These islands are one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries around the British coast and have been a haven for wildlife since the days of St.Cuthbert, the Northumbrian saint who lived as a hermit on the islands from 676 to 684 A.D. Depending on the tides, there are between 15 and 28 islands in the group which has been in the care of the National Trust since 1925.

Following the end of the Second World War in 1945 and the period of austerity immediately following it, the motor car became more prominent as the main means of transport and holiday patterns changed accordingly. To cater for the more mobile holidaymakers caravan sites were built first to the south and later to the north of the village and a number of guesthouses and 'bed-and-breakfasts' were opened.

The village itself changed in character as cafes and restaurants opened and amusement arcades appeared, but traditional businesses catering for the locals as well as the visitor survived.

Today, in the 21st Century, Seahouses' place as a holiday resort is assured. Its population increases from a permanent 1,800 to around three times that number during the high season, with holidaymakers staying in the holiday parks, self-catering apartments, hotels, guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts. Its main attractions are unchanged - miles of unspoiled and uncrowded beaches, boat trips to the Farne Islands and a warm Northumbrian welcome.

Continue your walk by browsing the map below: