Good Friday pilgrimage to Lindisfarne - in pictures

Three groups have walked for five days, some carrying large wooden crosses, to symbolise Jesus's journey to Calvary before his crucifixion. Many will stay on the island to commemorate Easter. Photograph: Christopher Thomond

It's heavy going in the mud. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

Pilgrim's Way is the best way to access the island, which is marked by posts along the route. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

Pilgrims of all ages take the journey to the Holy Island. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

The crosses that the pilgrims carry come in a variety sizes and weights. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

The first monastery was founded on the island in AD635 and pilgrims have been visiting the island ever since. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

Despite the cold weather, devotees are in good spirits. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

The pilgrims get ready for the final part of their journey. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

The raid by Vikings in 793 caused much damage to the island and started nearly two centuries of Nordic raids along the coast of Britain. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian

Pilgrims from Scotland and northern England on the annual Good Friday Northern Cross pilgrimage from Beal, on the Northumberland mainland across to Lindisfarne. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian