Staple Island

Staple Island is one of the Farne Islands off the Northumberland coast in northeast England and is known for its seabird colonies. It is part of a protected island group valued for breeding seabirds and seals.

The island is notable for dense breeding populations of puffins, razorbills, guillemots and other seabirds during the breeding season. Boat trips from mainland harbours offer close views of the island and seal haul-outs, though landings are regulated to protect wildlife.

The Farne Islands have a long history of human use including early monastic activity and later lighthouse operations on nearby islands; Staple Island has been used historically as part of the archipelago’s maritime landscape. Conservation management now focuses on protecting bird colonies and marine habitats.

Staple Island lies a few kilometres off the Northumberland coast near Seahouses and Bamburgh. It is accessible only by boat and sits among the cluster of islands that form the Farnes in the North Sea.

• Boat access and restrictions: Many boat operators run wildlife trips from Seahouses and other Northumberland harbours; landing on the island is often restricted during bird-breeding season to protect colonies.
• Wildlife: The island supports large seabird colonies including puffins, razorbills and guillemots, and is a common haul-out site for grey seals nearby.