A guide to the Isles of Scilly

Travelling to the Isles

While the Scillies seem like a distant destination, with its otherworldly beauty, silky shorelines, and tropical gardens, reaching the islands for a day is surprisingly simple. Whether you’re local to Cornwall or travelling further afield, there are many ways to visit. 

Hop aboard the Scillonian III from Penzance Harbour and glide towards St Mary’s on a blissful sea journey. Or, take to the skies with Skybus flights departing from Lands End, Newquay, and Exeter airport. Long to experience both? A fly out, sail back option is also available, which is best suited for those who are staying or live in and around Cornwall. 

With five inhabited islands stretched across 25 miles of pure serenity, here are some tips on each island to help you plan your next island adventure.

St Mary’s 

With a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere, St Marys (the largest island of the Scillies) has much to offer. From honey-hued shores to historic villages and monuments, there is something for everyone.

Best beach 

Porthcressa Beach

Step onto a heavenly stretch of golden sand nestled on the southern side of Hugh Town. Blessed with translucent, shallow waters, this idyllic bay invites you to greet tiny fish as they wiggle past your feet before paddling out on a kayak, letting the sea's gentle rhythm guide you. Afterwards, enjoy a sun-dappled stroll across the promenade to take in Porthcressa's awe-inspiring views. Please note there is no lifeguard cover at Porthcressa, so be mindful before entering the water. 

Best town

Hugh Town 

Perched on an isthmus connecting St Mary's to the tiny island of Garrison, wander along Hugh Town's timeless Elizabethan streets. Hire a golf buggy, a popular mode of transport in the Scillies, stroll across the mesmerising harbour to watch the ferries dock from Penzance, or unearth the town's rich history at the Tudor Star Castle before watching the town bathe in golden hour light.

Best festival 

World Pilot Gig Championships 

Held annually over the May Day bank holiday weekend, rowing teams from the Scillies, Cornwall, and Devon gather to compete in the World Pilot Gig Championships. Watch teams glide across azure Scillonian waters in traditional pilot gig rowing boats gently crafted from Cornish narrow-leaf elm. With two races to witness from St Mary's stunning harbour, cheer on determined rowers as they race towards St Agnes and the Nut Rock. 

Best restaurant 

Juliet's Garden 

Juliet's Garden, Porthloo Hill, Porth Loo Lane, St Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 0NF

Just a stone throw away from Porthloo’s stunning beach, Juliet's Garden is a great choice for those who enjoy a mixture of ale, food, and spellbinding views. Savour indulgent cakes and jam-topped scones from the sun-beaming terrace, or enjoy a light Greek salad, crab sandwich, or a delicious bacon bap from Juliet's gorgeous interior. Admire Taylors Island and Newford Island beyond St Mary's sparkling waters before wandering towards the Telegraph Tower, discovering Iron Age monuments along the way.

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Tresco 

Privately owned since 1834 by the Dorrien Smith family, Tresco holds many wonders. From exotic gardens and serene wildlife to rich maritime history, Scilly’s second largest island offers a plethora of activities for a peaceful getaway. 

Best beach 

Pentle Bay 

With crystal-clear waters and sweeping views of the eastern isles, Pentle Bay is a secluded paradise praised by the Telegraph, Wall Street Journal, and Condé Nast. Spend unhurried afternoons relaxing in utter serenity, watching gentle waves rolling ashore across the entrancing canvas laid out before you. Blessed with soft whispers of the sea and gentle hums of wildlife, facilities are located a ten-minute drive away, making it ideal for those seeking seclusion. Lifeguard cover is not available at Pentle Bay, so please be mindful before entering the water.

Best garden 

Tresco Abbey Gardens 

Tresco Abbey Gardens, Cam Near Road, Tresco, Isles of Scilly, TR24 0QQ

For an enchanting afternoon, explore the dreamy sub-tropical gardens of Tresco Abbey, one of the most famous places to visit in Scilly. Thanks to the unique positioning of the isles, it is believed that Augustus Smith, the Abbey's owner in the early 1800s, collected seeds from ships returning from warmer climates to craft this truly mesmerising garden. With 20,000 different plants from across the globe, including gorgeous Indian fan palms, Mexican yuccas, and Chilean puya, you won't find exotic species quite like this anywhere else in the country. 

Best museum 

Valhalla Figurehead Museum 

Valhalla Museum, Cam Near Road, Tresco, Isles of Scilly, TR24 0QQ

Nestled within the exotic paradise of Tresco Abbey's garden, uncover the islands’ maritime past at the Valhalla Museum. Surrounded by dramatic seas, Augustus Smith began collecting washed-up figureheads from shipwrecks along the coastline, mostly from mid-19th-century merchant ships. Traditionally placed on the front of ships to offer protection, these wooden carvings – often mirroring animals or human figures – provide an insight into the status and power of those who once sailed past the Isles.

Best pub/ restaurant 

The New Inn 

The New Inn, New Grimsby Quay, Tresco, Isles of Scilly 

With enchanting views across the new Grimsby harbour, immerse yourself in the easy-going spirit of Tresco captured within The New Inn. Enjoy summer grill nights from the sun-dappled terrace, hearty pub classics in the characterful Driftwood Bar, and sunset drinks in the beer garden while waiting for the stars to appear. Perfectly placed for exploring Tresco's enchanting natural wonders, leave with a full belly and your thirst quenched after a magical evening tipple overlooking the mesmerising harbour below.

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St Martin’s 

Living up to its Cornish name Brechiek, translating to ‘dappled island’, drift away to the sound of whispering waves and birdsong at St Martin’s. Soak up the dazzling views on one of Scilly’s quietest inhabited islands, and hop over to White Island to embrace all things natural, completely away from civilisation. Return to St. Martin's shore to socialise in a cosy pub or a local vineyard. 

Best beach 

Higher Town Bay 

Locally known as Par Beach and voted one of the best beaches in the country, take a deep breath and let the soft, white sand of Higher Town Bay transport you to the Mediterranean. Framed by rolling grassy dunes, the idyllic shore invites you to slow down and bask in tranquillity, or paddle out in the open azure waters if you prefer. Boasting spellbinding views over the Eastern Isles, Higher Town is just a short walk from the Little Arthur Café and Adams Fish and Chips, making it easy to wander back for a bite to eat after a relaxing day at the beach. 

Best fish and chips 

Adams Fish and Chips 

Adam's Fish and Chips, Fiddlers Green Cruthers Neck, St Martins, Isles of Scilly, TR25 0QL

Savour mouthwatering fish and chips at the family-owned Adams Fish and Chips, nestled in the heart of St Martin’s. From classic fish and chips to irresistible lobster scampi, veggie burgers, chicken nuggets, and prawn scampi, indulge in flavourful seafood caught and prepared by Adam himself, served with chips locally made from the family farm. With a licensed bar on-site, enjoy a refreshing ale and settle for a relaxing evening after a delicious meal. 

Best pub/restaurant 

The Seven Stones Inn

Seven Stones Inn, Lower Town, St Martins, Isles of Scilly, TR25 0QW

With mesmerising terrace views of St Mary's in the distance, indulge in hearty pub classics made from local produce at Seven Stones Inn. From delectable seafood linguines and exquisite burgers to heavenly ciabattas and jacket potatoes, experience a true taste of St Martin’s. Even though the Scillies stand 28 miles from the coast of Cornwall, you can still enjoy a mouthwatering, traditional Cornish pasty from beyond its shores at the Seven Stones Inn, too.  

Best Vineyard

St Martin’s Vineyard and Winery

St Martin’s Vineyard and Winery, Cruthers Neck, Isles of Scilly, TR25 0QL

Perched just moments away from the idyllic sand dunes of Higher Town Bay, St Martin’s Vineyard and Winery offers an adventurous, mindful escape immersed in all things wine. Embark on an invigorating tasting tour, savouring Scillonian delights from the vibrant St Martin’s Rosé and St Martin’s Red to locally brewed beers and fresh apple juice squeezed from its orchards. Afterwards, wander through their enchanting woodland for a spellbinding afternoon stroll, which transforms into a mesmerising display of bluebells and daffodils during the spring.

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St Agnes

With no hotels in sight, St Agnes is a wonderfully unspoiled haven inviting you to truly switch off from the mainland's gentle bustle. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, enjoy a peaceful adventure amidst St Agnes’ untamed natural beauty in a single afternoon, stretching only a mile wide across the archipelago.

Best beach 

The Bar

Discover a truly unique swim spot along The Bar's glorious stretch of sand and sea. Connecting St Agnes to the tiny island of Gugh, The Bar is a spellbinding tombolo sandbar that forms a mesmerising pathway at low tide. Enjoy a sun-dappled stroll across the tombolo for pristine coastal views and a spot of birdwatching at Gugh. Please make sure to keep an eye out for tide times before crossing, as The Bar disappears at high tide.    

Best pub 

The Turks Head 

Turks Head Staff Quarters, Old Lane, St Agnes, Isles of Scilly, TR22 0PL

After a day well-spent in nature, pop into The Turks Head, the most southern pub of the British Isles. Order a refreshing pint of local ale and head out to the sun-dappled beer garden to soak up the magnificent sea views ahead, watching rustic boats gently bob in the Porth Conger Quay below. If staying beyond St Agnes, enjoy a scenic evening boat trip on the Supper Boat from St Mary’s harbour for a delicious venison lasagne or wild mushroom tagliatelle at The Turks Head before gliding back to St Mary’s at golden hour.

Best café 

Coastguards Lookout

2 Coastguard Cottages, New Lane, St Agnes, Isles of Scilly 

Take a moment to slow down and linger over a delicious morning coffee at the Coastguards Lookout. With sweeping coastal views of the Western Isles and Bishop Rock Lighthouse in the distance, savour mouthwatering prosciutto toasties, indulgent Cornish cream teas (jam first), or wholesome brunch dishes made from fresh produce grown across the Scillies. After, enjoy these enchanting views on foot from the coastal path nearby, easily accessed through the rustic footpath behind Coastguards Lookout.

Best gin farm

Westward Farm and 28 Miles Shop

Westward Farm, St Agnes, Isles of Scilly, TR22 0PL

Embrace the island's botanical beauty at this family-owned gin farm. With an array of tangy gins and delightful sweet treats crafted from plants nurtured on the farm, their artisanal shop offers a true taste of St Agnes life. Try the classic Scilly gin, an exciting honey and orange gin, or even an adventurous colour-changing gin. Beyond spirits, Westwards Farm presses its own apples to make their popular cider and juices, whilst offering incredible scented toiletries, from shower gels and soaps to soothing lip balms.

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Bryher

Facing towards the Atlantic, Bryher is the smallest inhabited island of the Scillies, so small that you can peacefully stroll across the entire island in an unhurried afternoon. Take in the West coast's rugged views that shield the Isles from storms in the winter months, or enjoy the East coast's calm, sheltered waters, looking out to Tresco (which can be accessed on foot when the tide allows).

Best beach 

Rushy Bay 

Considered a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Rushy Bay's tranquil waters invite you to unwind across its silky shores. Significantly calmer than the Atlantic-facing West Coast, let the gentle swash of waves and birdsong bless your ears as you float in its azure waters, or explore the coastline on paddleboards or kayaks. Explore the magical rockpools that appear here at low tide, look out for curious seals nearby, and enjoy the beautiful outline of Samson Island on the horizon.

Best café/bar

Fraggle Rock Bar & Café

Fraggle Rock Bar, Lower Water Quay, Bryher, Isles of Scilly, TR23 0PR

Just a stone's throw away from the mesmerising Kitchen Par beach, indulge in fraggle feasts and local gins at the Fraggle Rock Bar and Café. From hearty ham, egg, and chips, slow-cooked BBQ pork ribs, and cod bites to Friday fish and chip nights, savour mouthwatering Scillonian delights on Bryher's North Coast. Make sure to save room for a sweet treat, choosing from irresistible bakewell tarts and heavenly chocolate brownies to top off your visit.

Best art gallery 

Bryher Gallery 

Bryher Gallery, Bryher, Isles of Scilly, TR23 0PR

Perched on the calm east coast, the Bryher Gallery offers truly exquisite art pieces of the Scillonian coastline. Located in Richard Pearce's beach studio, this independent gallery showcases art that reminisces about the Isles rich maritime heritage and deep connection to the sea. Browse endless shades of blue in this historical studio, once home to the Golden Eagle Gig in the early 1800s, and take home a canvas that speaks to you.

Best place for storm watching 

Hell Bay 

Westward facing towards the Atlantic Ocean, Hell Bay is the perfect spot to watch winter storms unfold. Pop into the Hell Bay Hotel’s cosy indoor bar and terrace, and indulge in mouthwatering Cornish ale-battered fish and chips, or crispy sea salt squid whilst witnessing dramatic waves reaching wild heights. Or, seek shelter at their Crab Shack to savour locally caught crabs and scallops as salt spray brushes your skin.

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Stay near the Scillies

Ready for a day trip to Scilly's heavenly shores? Discover our spellbinding hideaways in Cornwall. Stay near Penzance’s harbour at Mount View Horizon Safari Tent for breathtaking views of St Michael's Mount, or Coastal Gaze’s beautiful glamping pod. Or, find your peaceful getaway at The Surf Shack cabin, boasting spellbinding views of Sennen Cove, or The Pigsty countryside barn near Lands End airport. 

With many more experiences and events to discover and untouched wonders to explore across the Isles of Scilly's 140 uninhabited islands, unearth more with Isles of Scilly Travel and book your day trip here.