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Farne Islands

islands, England, United Kingdom

News •

Farne Islands, group of islets and reefs lying 1.5 to 6 miles (2.5 to 10 km) off the North Sea coast of Great Britain in the unitary authority and historic county of Northumberland, England. The islands are composed of resistant dolerite (lava) rocks. The largest of these islands, House (Inner Farne), spans 16 acres (6.5 hectares) and has precipitous cliffs reaching up to 80 feet (24 metres) in height. The lighthouse on Longstone island was the home of Grace Darling, Victorian heroine of sea-rescue fame; the modern lighthouse, however, is on House. The Farne Islands are preserved as a seabird and seal sanctuary by the National Trust.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Jeff Wallenfeldt.
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