Lindisfarne Causeway, Holy Island

The Lindisfarne causeway is the tidal road that links Holy Island to the Northumberland mainland across a vast expanse of sand, mudflat and salt marsh. Twice a day the sea swallows the whole crossing, and the sight of the tarmac vanishing into water, with the wooden refuge box marooned in the flats, is one of the most atmospheric scenes on the coast. It is a spectacular place to fly, but it comes with real responsibility: the entire area is Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve and a hugely important site for overwintering wildfowl and wading birds. Disturbing feeding or roosting flocks is both harmful and potentially an offence, so keep your height sensible, stay away from birds, and avoid the peak winter roost times. Launch from firm ground near the mainland car park at the causeway approach rather than wandering onto soft mud. There is no airport restriction zone here, but there is a coastguard presence and the tides are lethal to anyone who mistimes a crossing. Consult the official safe crossing times before you set out. Fly around a rising or falling tide for the strongest visual contrast, and treat wildlife as the top priority.