travel to scilly isles

Isles of Scilly: The Complete Guide

• A Brief History
• The Inhabited Islands
• Things to Do

How to Get There

Getting around.

The Isles of Scilly, about 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall, are about the same distance from the English mainland as Nantucket is from Cape Cod. They also share an underlying Atlantic ambiance—from the color of the light and the gritty white sand beaches to the local flora—waves of salt grasses, ripening rose hips, and blackberry bushes heavy with fruit.

But there the similarity ends. This remote, low-lying archipelago—the southwesternmost outpost of the United Kingdom—seems a world apart. High granite towers, probably dropped by the receding ice at the end of the last Ice Age, give the island silhouettes wild magic that belies the gentle realities. Shallow waters turn seas as clear and turquoise as the Caribbean. And the Gulf Stream keeps the climate mild enough to support palm trees and subtropical plants year-round.

The population is only about 2,000, with 1,600 residing on the main island of St. Mary's and 400 scattered across the four remaining populated islands: Tresco, St Martin's, Bryher and St. Agnes. They're engaged in fishing, farming, and the tourism industry; they grow narcissus and daffodil bulbs; they're artists, artisans and entrepreneurs, and often a combination of all of these.

A Brief History of the Isles of Scilly

This little group of islands is part of the Duchy of Cornwall, the estates that produce a Royal income for Prince Charles, who, in addition to being the Prince of Wales is also the Duke of Cornwall.

It's likely that as long as 4,000 years ago, the islands were one landmass populated by the tribes of Britons (ancient Brythonic people) who also settled across Cornwall and Brittany. Various Bronze Age monuments that these people left behind are scattered across the islands.

The next group who left traces were the Tudors. The Isles of Scilly were considered the gateway to the English Channel and vulnerable to invasion from France and Spain as well as havens for continental pirates, privateers and smugglers. Some Tudor fortifications were built as well as Star Castle (now a luxury hotel) and the Garrison wall surrounding it. The Spaniard's never invaded. But there were some skirmishes between Royalists and Parliamentarians during the English Civil War, which left military ruins to explore.

The Inhabited Islands of Scilly

Each of the five inhabited islands has its own personality. It's easy and quick to go from one to the other (between 10 to 20 minutes) on the small boats that ply the channels between them—though that inter-island travel is influenced by tides (see more about that below). Island hopping is a big part of any visit to the Isles of Scilly.

St. Mary's

St. Mary's is the commercial hub of the islands and the main access, by boat, to the other four. It has Scilly's main airport receiving flights from the mainland (heliports on St. Mary's and Tresco will open in 2020), and it is the port for the ferry from Penzance.

Hugh Town, the capital of the Scillies, is little more than a tiny village by mainland standards, but this is where you'll find the islands' supermarket, clinic, a small selection of shops, several art galleries, and a good selection of pubs and restaurants. It's connected to the rest of St. Mary's by a narrow neck of land with white sand beaches on both sides.

The entire island is about two and a half miles long and three miles wide, covering an area of about six square miles. It has relatively level though rugged coastal walking, 30 miles of nature trails and just a few paved roads, clustered around Hugh Town.

St. Mary's and St. Agnes are noted for their flower farms—there are nine of them, producing the earliest scented narcissi available in the United Kingdom . If you take a guided tour of St. Mary's, a service provided by Toots Taxi , among others, ask to be shown the flower fields. They are long and narrow, protected all around by tall, robust hedgerows and a rare sight. St. Mary's also has the largest selection and variety of accommodations in the islands. They range from self-catering and B&B accommodations to four-star luxury at the Star Castle Hotel in a star-shaped, Elizabethan fortress within the island's Garrison.

St. Agnes is the southernmost community in the United Kingdom. It is a tiny, peaceful island with a population of only 72. It has a watersports center, St. Agnes Watersports , offering kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling; a handful of artists, an island hall, a small church with beautiful contemporary stained glass windows by local glass artist Oriel Hicks, and the Scillies' only dairy farm.

If you are collecting Guinness World Records, St. Agnes has, in the Turk's Head, the southernmost pub in the UK and, at Troytown Farm , the smallest dairy farm. Their nine cows produce yogurt, milk, and incredibly rich ice cream that you can buy direct from the farm. The farm also has holiday cottages and tent camping. The island is encircled with a (mostly) paved path, suitable for electric golf buggies or farm wagons, and not much more. One of the most pleasant things to do there is to circumnavigate the place, picking wild blackberries, looking out for the enormous range of wildflowers and succulents, and spotting the rare wild seabirds.

Gugh (pronounced "goo") is an island connected to St Agnes by a sandbar at low tide. Like a lot of the Isles of Scilly, it is littered with mysterious Stone Age ruins and has been populated for thousands of years. At the moment, it has a population of three. If you do decide to walk over, stay aware of the tides because there is no boat service to Gugh, and once the tide floods the sandbar, you could be there for 12 hours. The nearest landfall in the opposite direction is North America, some 3,000 miles away.

Tresco is the second largest of the Isles of Scilly but, at about 2.5 miles long, you could still circumnavigate it on a brisk morning walk. It is home to some of the most beautiful white-sand beaches in the group and the internationally famous Tresco Abbey Garden.

Of all the islands, Tresco probably has the most exciting history . It has been managed by the Dorrien Smith family, under lease from the Duchy of Cornwall, since 1834. Tresco Abbey, a 19th-century baronial mansion, is named for a monastery that had existed on the island for about 1,000 years until Henry VIII dissolved it. Augustus Smith, the founder of the family dynasty, was a follower of Jeremy Bentham and attempted to put Bentham's Utopian ideas into practice in the Isles of Scilly (at one time he managed all of the inhabited islands of the group). That included free compulsory public education decades before it was required elsewhere in England. Islanders had to pay a weekly fee to keep their children out of school. Smith's most significant legacy for visitors is Tresco Abbey Garden , an enormous, sub-tropical paradise in a sheltered valley and part of the ancient abbey grounds. If you do nothing else in the Scillies, a day trip to these gardens with their collection of exotic South African, Australian and New Zealand plants and flowers is a must.

Bryher is the smallest of the inhabited islands at only 330 acres. It's about a mile long and half a mile wide, so it's surprising how much variety you'll find there. The west-facing side has a rugged shoreline with rocky bluffs facing the Atlantic at Hell Bay (which should give you some idea of the possible waves and currents. The island's east side is just a few hundred yards across from Tresco, and on some extreme spring tides, it's possible to walk across the sand (along with several hundred others) between the two islands. As the water (regularly as much as 16 feet deep) recedes, it reveals the outline of Bronze Age settlements and field patterns.

St. Martin's

More sandy beaches, a luxury spa hotel, a vineyard, a pub, a tea shop, and a flower farm are pretty much all you'll find on St Martin's. It's the place to go for a quiet spot of relaxation. But it's also an excellent place for wildlife experiences, like snorkeling with seals and watersports. And a new, community-organized, two-domed observatory. COSMOS , paid for by the EU and local fundraising, is the most southwesterly observatory in the UK. It gives locals and visitors a chance to experience this island's natural dark skies stargazing environment.

More Things to Do in the Isles of Scilly

• Take to the water. By North Atlantic standards, the beaches that face the "pool" of water between the islands are shallow and usually warm enough for what the British refer to as "wild swimming," and the rest of us call swimming in the sea. You may need to wear a wet suit for warmth, though. The calm, inter-island waters are also famous for scuba diving. Scilly Diving , on St. Martin's, offers divers access to at least 155 identified dive sites.
• Get on the water. All kinds of boat hire, from kayaks, rowboats, small powerboats, and sailboats are available from suppliers on several of the islands. There are wildlife safaris from St. Agnes and St. Mary's and boat hire available on Bryher . Chalkboards on the dock of St. Mary's Pool Harbour list the times for a variety of boat excursions. Or check the Tourist Information Center near Porthcressa Beach on St Mary's for information about boating, accommodations, and events.
• Explore the ruins. Every inhabited island in the archipelago has the remains of past civilizations and cultures, from Bronze Age burial sites to Tudor fortifications. Visiting any of them usually involves an interesting walk with glorious views. The English Heritage book, Defending Scilly, downloadable free, online , is packed with information about Tudor, Civil War, and later fortifications for intrepid island explorers. Visit the English Heritage page for Bant's Carn Burial Chamber and Halangy Down Ancient Village , and you'll find further links to seven more prehistoric sites on St Mary's and Tresco.
• Visit an artist. For such a small place, the Isles of Scilly attract and keep a remarkable number of practicing artists. Many of them are happy to welcome you to their galleries or studios and talk to you about their work. Phoenix Crafts in Porthmellon Business Park, just east of Hugh Town on St Mary's hosts many artists and craftspeople, including stained glass artist Oriel Hicks . Also on St Mary's, Peter Macdonald Smith shows his seascapes and abstracts at Porthloo Studios, and Steve Sherris can often be found painting outdoors around St. Mary's. Ceramicist Lou Simmonds makes some of her pots from clay she digs on St. Agnes itself. She often welcomes visitors to her studio in St. Agnes' Island Hall. There are artists and galleries on every one of the islands. Ask at the Tourist Information Office for the Arts Guide, produced with help from the Arts Council. It's a comprehensive list.
• Watch the gig races. Pilot gigs are traditional boats, crewed by six, and a coxswain. They were once used to guide ships into Scilly's ports around treacherous sandbanks and reefs. Today, local men and women race them between the islands. From April to September, visitors and islanders gather along the shores to watch colorful gig races twice a week from about 8 p.m. Women race on Wednesdays, men on Fridays.
• Eat plenty of seafood. Being adrift in the Atlantic, it's a good bet that there's lots of good seafood on offer. Lobster, local crab, mussels, scallops, and all sorts of sea fish are easy to come by. We particularly liked The Beach , a relaxed, rustic restaurant on, you guessed it, the beach at Porthmellon on St Mary's.

Depending upon where you start from, getting to the Isles of Scilly can be something of an adventure. You can arrive on the islands by plane, ferry, or (after March 2020) by helicopter, but first, you have to get to one of several departure points in Cornwall or Devon. If you are traveling from London by train, that can take between three and a half hours (to Exeter in Devon, the closest ) and five and a half hours to Penzance. You can also fly from London to Exeter or Newquay (an hour and ten minutes for either)

Whatever you do, don't plan a travel schedule that depends upon precise timing and tight connections. Weather in this part of the world can cause delays or cancellations from wind, fog, or rough seas. If you're heading back to London for a flight home, invest in a cushion of a day or two extra, just in case you are delayed getting off the islands. We were warned by other travelers that flights between St. Mary's Airport and Lands End, while short, were notorious for fog cancellations. Sure enough, a canceled return flight meant we were transferred to a ferry and arrived two hours too late for the last train back to London.

Isles of Scilly Travel operate Skybus fixed-wing flights to St Mary's Airport from Exeter, Newquay, or Lands End. The fastest, cheapest flights are from Land's End, costing 90 pounds (around $115) each way for a 20-minute flight, with up to 21 flights a day in peak season. The standard one-way fare from Newquay is 116 pounds and 75 pence and takes 30 minutes, five flights a day in peak season. Flights from Land's End and Newquay are scheduled year-round. Skybus flies from Exeter from March through October. It takes 60 minutes and costs 170 pounds and 75 pence each way. These are tiny planes so do plan to travel light. You can take two pieces of hold luggage with a combined weight of not more than 33 pounds. Carry-on is limited to one piece—a handbag or a camera, for example, but not both.

If you need to carry more, consider taking the ferry. The Scillonian , also operated by Isles of Scilly Travel, sails between Penzance and St Mary's from late March to the end of October. Standard one-way adult fare is 55 pounds (around $70), and the voyage takes two hours and 45 minutes.

Penzance Helicopters are scheduled to start flying from Penzance to St. Mary's and Tresco on March 17, 2020. The heliport is near Penzance train station with an electric shuttle bus service between the station and the helipad. The year-round flights will take 15 minutes, and costs start at 122 pounds ($159) each way. Passengers can check one item of luggage in the hold, but it can weigh up to 44 pounds. Carry on is limited to one small piece—a coat or a handbag, for example.

Visitors are not allowed to bring cars to the islands, and most people get around on foot, by bicycle or on electric golf carts that can be rented on St. Mary's, the biggest island. There are taxi services, airport, and hotel shuttle buses, as well as cars owned by locals on St. Mary's. And on Tresco, you'll occasionally see little green electric Tresco Estate service vehicles whizzing around.

All of the islands are connected by boat services, with small motorboats traveling between them several times a day. Boatmen's associations run the boats on the different islands and, because travel between the islands is so dependent on the tides, their schedules are usually only posted the day before. Look for them on chalkboards on the docks and published in the Tourist Information Office. The St. Mary's Boatmen's Association posts a seasonal schedule online, but it is subject to change, so its best to ask your hotel to check for you the day before. The Tresco Boatmen's association posts its next day schedule online. Tresco Boat Services and St. Agnes Boating coordinate with St. Mary's to provide services to the off islands. Trips are short, just 15 to 20 minutes, and relatively inexpensive. For the most part, the inter-island waters are calm. Sailing to St. Agnes, the southernmost island, involves crossing the main deep water channel to the sea, and some may find the swells unnerving in the small open boats. Tides wait for no one, and neither do the Isles of Scilly inter-island boats. Be at the dock at the appointed time, or you could find yourself left behind until the next high tide.

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The ultimate travel guide to the Isles of Scilly

By Annabelle Spranklen

If hell is other people , heaven is the Isles of Scilly . Here, 28 miles to the west of Cornwall ’s Land’s End, is an archipelago that will make your heart leap. It’s like Cornwall before the boom in second-home owners, where islanders welcome you like long-lost friends, where the ice-cream-white beaches are deserted and the air smells like sun-drenched salt and sweet narcissi. For every dazzling wild marigold, there’s an honesty box, teeming with home-grown vegetables, just-laid eggs and crumbly fudge, spread out like a village fete’s prize-winning produce.

It is on these islands that the mundane tortures of everyday life are quickly erased, because here the pace is slower and the people are friendlier. Days are often miraculously filled with unbroken sunshine and the night skies, free from the city-light pollution, are inky and glowing. For anyone who visits, it’s a revelation. Like the gentle ebb and flood of the tide, you can’t help but vow to return.

The Isles of Scilly are made up of more than 140 islands, five of which are inhabited. The rest are a happy haven for nesting storm petrels and manx shearwaters. Each island has a distinct and different feel: St Mary’s is the largest with its capital, Hugh Town, the administrative seat; Tresco is the well-groomed family favourite that’s been leased to the Dorrien-Smith family by the Duchy of Cornwall since 1834; then there’s wild and rugged Bryher, quaint, flower-filled St Martin's and soothingly remote St Agnes.

To explore, you should spend a week or two hopping your way around their translucent blue waters, experiencing the very best of what these islands have to offer. This is the UK , but not as you know it.

When is the best time to visit the Scilly Isles?

The Isles of Scilly have some of the mildest and warmest conditions in the UK. Even off season, frost on Scilly is rare and spring arrives early, hedgerows bursting with Bermuda buttercups and carpets of bobbing white wild garlic sprouting at the sides of almost every border. July and August bring more visitors due to reliably good weather, but you’ll almost always still find the beaches quieter than the mainland. September is usually filled with cloudless skies, the hazy, late-summer feeling still clinging on. Come October the temperatures begin to drop, the first golden touches of autumn are in the air and this is the month the birdwatchers flock to the islands in large numbers. From November , most of the restaurants and hotels go into slumber until early April.

A guide to the Scilly Isles best islands

What to do on St Mary’s

Often the first port of call for visitors to Scilly, as it houses the main airport and the dock for the Scillonian passenger ferry, St Mary’s is where the majority of residents live, and the only island with cars – and a single petrol pump. There’s a reassuring rhythm around the harbour, the boatmen gathering on the quay, pulling ropes, and bulging tripper boats steaming out to the off-islands (the other inhabited isles). Don’t miss a walk around nostalgic Hugh Town, with its cluster of gift shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs (not to mention a Co-op – the only supermarket on Scilly).

Cars are off-limits to tourists (though you can rent a taxi), so the best way to explore is by renting a bike from St. Mary’s Bike Hire , grabbing a picnic from Tanglewood Kitchen and pedalling your way up the luminous empty beaches of Bar Point and Pelistry, taking in a lungful of salty sea air as you go. Since there are few trees or high buildings, nearly every aspect in every direction of the low-lying islands is dominated by vast, mesmeric views of the sea and the sky.

Rent a kayak from the Scilly Sailing Centre , run by Amelia and Richard Mills and their lucky water-loving labrador Rufus. Late afternoon is a wonderful time to splish-splash your way around the tranquil Porthmellon Bay, just as the sun begins to dip. Keep an eye out for bobbing seals.

Where to stay on St Mary’s

While there are lots of B&Bs and self-catering options on St Mary’s, if you’ve ever longed to rest your weary head in a miniature Elizabethan fortress right by the sea, Star Castle Hotel (pictured above) is unbeatable. Located on the highest point in the main island, overlooking the harbour and set within its original garrison walls, this place has charm down to a T.

Owner Robert Francis happily natters away to guests at breakfast , inviting everyone along to his vineyard for a lobster lunch or aboard local Tim’s Calypso boat for a day trip to the off-islands. Opt for a room in the main castle where four-poster beds and twinkling sea views await, or one of the garden suites ( pictured above ), which come with their own sprawling verandahs. And don’t miss a nightcap at the Dungeon Bar, where prisoners were once held.

Eating and drinking on St Mary’s

You won’t find any of the famous fast-food joints on St Mary’s. You can, however, tuck into top-notch tapas and Mediterranean -style classics at smart beachside café Dibble & Grub, overlooking Porthcressa beach, which serves groaning antipasti boards that are hard to squeeze onto the table. Or there’s heaps of just-caught fish on the menu at On The Quay (pictured above) , a buzzy-as-a-honeypot brassiere filled with local art and with impressive waterside views. Try the epic seafood platters or the Cornish lobsters drizzled in garlic butter.

If a stiff G&T is calling, head up to Old Town and to the Scilly Spirit Distillery . They’ve only been distilling since May 2019, but Arthur and Hilary Miller have already scooped a number of awards for their gin , which uses a recipe inspired by a 1665 shipwreck, when Java pepper from a sunken cargo washed up on Scilly’s shores. Book into the gin school and sniff your way around their botanical library , creating your very own concoction to take home.

Naturally, Scilly also does a good line in lo-fi, laidback spots beside the sand. Opened two years ago in a boat shed on Porthmellon strand, The Beach is the most fashion- forward outfit on St Mary’s with 25 gins, including a few local ones, and two Big Green Eggs for chargrilling whole lobsters for £25. Laura Fowler

ST MARTIN’S

What to do on St Martin’s

The most northerly of the five islands, St Martin’s takes your breath away. Everywhere you look is Insta -worthy, from the towering blue sprouts of echium swaying in the summer breeze to the fields of dancing narcissi in winter , not to mention the photogenic Lawrence’s Bay, stretched out like a starched white-linen shirt. Yes, a beach that happens to be deserted, even in high summer.

The water off St Martin’s Great and Little Bays is iridescent. Sailing boats bob offshore; otherwise, both stretches can be accessed via a walk along the cliff path where rabbit tails vanish into the gorse. LF

With only one main road going through it, you’d expect there to be a sleepy feel to this community, but there’s a hubbub of creative talent and entrepreneurial spirit bubbling away. If you’re visiting, stop by the dahlia- and sweet pea-covered Middletown Barn, a tiny co-operative gallery where makers on the island can sell their wares (it’s an honesty shop for the digital age, where you scan and pay using your phone). You’ll be able to stock up on skincare treats from Phoenix & Providence (pictured above) , a gorgeous brand founded by islander Ella McLachlan that uses seaweed collected from the beaches down below, or watercolours from local artist Inga Drazniece . There’s Fay Page Jewellery ’s workshop just down the road too, where stunning shell- and starfish-shaped charms, inspired by local surroundings, are handcrafted.

It’s worth popping by Churchtown Farm (pictured above) , the home of Scilly Flowers . Due to the balmy climate provided by the Gulf Stream, owners Ben and Zoe Julian grow 20 acres of their famous narcissi in the winter, along with scented pastel pinks in the summer. You can have a peek at them being picked and packed before they’re posted all over the UK (they’ll survive a day in your suitcase if you want to bring a box home).

If you’re visiting from April to September , don’t miss out on Scilly Seal Snorkelling organised by Anna Browne, where the curious, cheeky mammals will whizz up right behind you and nibble on your fins. You’ll be wrapped in thick wetsuits, booties and gloves but brace yourself for that initial plunge, it’s nippy. They’re often booked up months ahead so you need to be quick.

If the evening skies are clear, make a beeline for the St Martin’s Observatory , a community-funded facility set up by a group of the island’s amateur astronomers with two incredible domes – one for deep-sky viewing and the other for solar viewing. In the summer months, the volunteers run Twinkly Tuesdays, when you can pop by for star-gazing and workshops .

Kimberly Grant

Olivia Morelli

Connor Sturges

Where to stay on St Martin’s

If you’re here for more than a few nights, the self-catering options on St Martin’s, as well as the popular campsite , are a good option. If you’d prefer the whistles and bells of a hotel, Karma St Martin’s (pictured above) is your ticket. On the westerly side of the island, it has one of the best viewpoints, overlooking the channel Sound across to Tean and Crump Islands, a bucket’s throw from the gentle, lapping waves. While the hotel group has tried to incorporate its Asian origins into the design, which makes the communal areas feel a little dark, bedrooms are much more pared-back and understated, allowing those views to take centre-stage. Dogs are welcomed and staff, including manager Scott and Pippa on the front desk, are a dab-hand at organising whatever you want whenever you need it. Dinner at the Cloudesley Shovell restaurant, named after an admiral who died with his fleet in a Scilly shipwreck, is locally sourced and wonderfully elevated (think St Martin’s lobster with Champagne vinaigrette).

Eating and drinking on St Martin’s

If one thing is for certain, you cannot go hungry or thirsty on St Martin’s. After a morning snorkelling or wandering through the headland, meander up to the Island Bakery , run by Barney and Ella McLachlan (the same lady behind the skincare brand – everyone on Scilly has more than one string to their bow), for the freshest crab rolls, homemade pasties and excellent coffee. If a traditional Cornish cream tea is on the cards, you’ll want to nab a table in the pretty garden at Polreath Tea Room (its weekly curry nights are also a highlight with the locals). The island’s only pub, The Seven Stones Inn (pictured above) , named after the treacherous reef seven miles off Scilly, has the finest view of any in Britain, with a terrace decked out in pretty fairy lights, serving some of the best grub around (grilled lobster, homemade burgers, barbecue ribs).

For wine -lovers, St Martin’s Vineyard (pictured above) , on the site of an old flower farm, is worth a trip. Holly Robbins and James Faulconbridge took over the winery in spring 2020 and offer self-guided tours of the vines, followed by wine tasting. This year’s rosé sold out within weeks and their homemade apple juice is also a knockout.

For those looking to buy something stronger, former merchant naval officer Andrew Walder, whose family has lived on the island for more than 300 years, recently set up a rum and vodka distillery, SC Dogs (pictured above) , on Carron Farm. Book in for a tour of the small distillery to sample the products, which include a luscious mahogany-hued golden and spiced rum, flavoured with botanicals from Tresco’s Abbey Gardens. Each bottle tells the story of a local sea dog and bears a specially commissioned portrait to match.

What to do on Bryher

This is one of the Scillys’ most unspoilt islands and a birdwatcher 's paradise – with many varieties, from puffins to Sabine’s gulls – and it’s impossible not to succumb to its charms. On one side of the island is Rushy Bay (pictured above) , lapped by gentle waters and Hell Bay is over on the other, thrashed by the roaring Atlantic . Just one and a half miles long by half a mile wide, Bryher may be small but it sure is mighty.

Its rugged natural beauty has inspired countless writers including War Hors e’s Michael Morpurgo, whose children’s book Why the Whales Came is set on Bryher (and later, a film version called When the Whales Came , starring Helen Mirren, was filmed on location here in the 1980s). Don’t miss a walk up to the granite stacks of Shipman Head, taking in those views – water, water, everywhere.

Head to the secluded Great Par beach to find the gallery of local artist Richard Pearce , inside a renovated gig shed, where he paints magical Scilly seascapes all day, every day. Stop in the shallows for a spot of shrimping or starfish spotting. If you’re up for a proper Famous Five adventure, hire a kayak from the Bennett Boatyard and make your way across the water to the twin-peak uninhabited island of Samson. The last families, by then subsisting on a diet of little more than limpets and potatoes, moved away in 1855, and now all that’s left is the crumbling remains of their tiny stone cottages, the roofs and most of the walls long collapsed. The views from Samson, out across the archipelago, are astonishing.

Indian Ocean blue it may be, but Scilly’s sea is, on average, an un-bath like 13oC. A boat is the thing for exploring fragments of islands; and the lagoon-esque waters are heaven for sports. Pick up dinghies, kayaks, paddle- boards and buckets and spades to rent at Bryher’s Hut 62 – a sustainable solution to all the single-use-plastic beach kit usually left behind by holidaymakers. LF

Where to stay on Bryher

As on the other islands, there’s a scattering of lovely self-catering options on Bryher, from converted barns and chalets to farm cottages. Hell Bay Hotel (pictured above) , the island’s chicest residence, has a stylish New England seaside feel to it, with its duck egg blue-painted rooms (book the Emperor for the sweeping private decked terrace alone) and pistachio-green interiors with Lloyd Loom wicker furniture and Cornish seascape artwork. Food is effortless and as local as it gets, with fresh Bryher fish, Tresco beef and vegetables grown just a few miles away.

Eating and drinking on Bryher

It’s considered practically illegal to come to Scilly and not make a trip to Island Fish , run by the Pender family who have been fishing out of Bryher for hundreds of years. They’ve recently opened a café just above the main quay, selling everything from crab sandwiches and chowders to lobster and bacon burgers. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, head down to Veronica Farm for the most deliciously decadent fudge, made in small batches in pans and sold in the honesty box outside. Or there’s the Bryher Bake Box , another wonderful honesty stall that islander Zoe Dan stacks with tempting homemade buns, brownies and more every morning. Olivia’s Kitchen (pictured above) is another great new addition to the island, and the place to go for a laid-back lunch and tea .

Crab forms the staple diet of Scilly. Of all the many places to eat the creature, the tumbledown Crab Shack (open from May to September) is king, on a windswept bay on Bryher, in the grounds of the clapboard Hell Bay Hotel (from the team who also run private island Tresco). Come evening, the chefs throw open wooden shutters and everyone gets messy up to their elbows at long, artfully rough tables in two candlelit, whitewashed rooms strung with fishing nets. The blackboard menu is concise: medium, large or monster crab, as well as chips and wine – simply red, white or rosé by the bottle. And who doesn’t like chips and wine after a day spent getting children in and out of wetsuits? By Laura Fowler

What to do on St Agnes

Of all the islands in Scilly, St Agnes feels the most isolated and wild. Little wonder, since it’s the only inhabited isle to be separated from the rest of Scilly by a deep-water channel. Located on the most south-westerly edge of the archipelago, this is England ’s final frontier – a truly peaceful place to get away from it all.

Everywhere you look there is something to please the eye: twinkling coves, ancient flower fields and Caribbean -worthy beaches. If you’re coming here you must scurry, barefoot, along the ‘The Bar’ – the sand bank across to the island of Gugh that’s only accessible at low tide (although the temptation to become a Gugh castaway is understandably appealing). Keep your eyes peeled for Obadiah’s Barrow, a Neolithic-era grave named after a local farmer, as well as fleeting storm petrels and manx shearwaters that have recently started to breed again here.

Beyond the island’s barren heathland lie countless shipwrecks, the most famous from 1707, when four Royal Navy warships struck the Western Rocks and 1,500 men were lost at sea.

As on St Martin’s, there are a number of burgeoning cottage industries popping up on St Agnes and many can be found at the island’s hall, where crafters such as weaver Trish Peacock of Twisted Bobbins have their own studios. There’s also Pot Buoys (pictured above) , a gallery run by local artist Emma Eberlein, showcasing local pieces and jewellery made from recycled beach plastic. Periglis beach, known as a shell-collectors dream, is also worth the hike for a spot of beachcombing.

Where to stay on St Agnes

While this is the only island on Scilly not to have a hotel or guesthouse, there’s a windswept campsite on the beach and a scattering of self-catering hideaways, including a large farmhouse and cottages that are part of the Troytown Farm estate.

Eating and drinking on St Agnes

Speaking of Troytown Farm, located in one of the most unpolluted and tranquil locations in the UK, this is the place to come if you want a cone piled high with thick, rich island-made ice cream (from their Jersey herd). There are takeaway boxes too if you’re self-catering and need a freezer load. The island’s pub, The Turk’s Head , is Britain's most south-westerly pub, selling proper ales and locally caught fish and crab, and of course, pasties.

If you’re coming to St Agnes, definitely make some time to visit Westward Farm Gin , a flower-farm-turned-gin-distillery run by the Hicks family. Favourites include the chamomile and honey gin (with home-grown flowers and honey from their own bees) and Wingletang, which is made from gorse that grows on the Wingletang Downs where their cows graze.

What to do on Tresco

There’s a distinctly different feel to Tresco than the other islands – it’s like their well-groomed, immaculately maintained cousin. Scilly’s second-largest island is where families flock, lured by the wholesome feel, lush fields of grazing prize-winning herds, surreal beaches, whitewashed cottages and famous botanical paradise, Tresco Abbey Garden. There are no cars, instead everyone pedals their way around the twisty-twirly paths in bicycles with baskets. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge recently chose to holiday here with their family , staying at Dolphin House , one of the island’s more private self-catering options.

Although Tresco is owned by the Duchy, the Dorrien-Smith family have taken it over on a very long lease. The family still live in the grand house, the Abbey, beside the ruins of the original 12th-century monastery and the famous gardens, where the family’s flag flies when they’re in residence.

Here, in a surreal corner of a pretty unreal world, are some jaw-dropping beaches, including the almost bleached-white Pentle Bay (pictured above) and Appletree Bay, scattered with cowrie shells and edged with water the colour of a Bombay Sapphire bottle, enough to trick friends back home that you’re in some exotic far-flung location. Tresco isn’t all about deserted beaches though, there are two small ruined castles, a legacy of Scilly’s significant role in the English Civil War, and dramatic, heather-filled landscapes .

All the beaches on Scilly are glorious. A sheltered beach is not hard to find here – the trick is to head for an isle’s leeward side. Pentle Bay on Tresco is often pegged as Britain’s most beautiful. It is reached across a sandy track through dunes of rare flowers and marram grass, hot- white and deserted. Around the headland are two sweeps lovelier still for their wildness: Borough and Blockhouse. Across the island, golden-sugar Appletree Bay has a barbecue that can be booked for get- togethers. By Laura Fowler

Visiting the subtropical Tresco Abbey Garden (pictured above) is a must. It’s a frost-free haven for more than 20,000 exotic plants, many from South Africa , Australasia and South America , most of which could never survive on the mainland. Red squirrels were introduced in 2013 and golden pheasants roam freely. Check out islander Gem Hansen’s restorative yoga classes in the gardens, or there’s early morning beach meditation, which will bliss you out for the day.

The Tresco Island Spa (pictured above) , so close to the water you can almost hear the roar of the waves outside, is also worth a visit. Book in with spa manager Hannah Abnett and ask for the Ila Kundalini back therapy treatment, an out-of-body experience that will have you feeling lighter and brighter, like you just got your mojo back.

Where to stay on Tresco

Seaside living is a breeze at Tresco as there are plenty of accommodation options, from picture-postcard village cottages and larger beach houses perfect for big families (most of which are part of Tresco’s successful ‘Islandshare’ timeshare development) to the cosy rooms at The New Inn. The Sea Garden Cottages (pictured above) and apartments , which sit right on the water’s edge at Old Grimsby, are dreamy for couples or smaller groups wanting self-catering, with all the perks of being in a hotel (you get access to the tennis courts, indoor swimming pool and gym on site when staying here). The cool, coastal-inspired one-bed apartments have open-plan kitchens filled with Sophie Conran crockery, along with a gorgeous little garden overlooking the water, while upstairs are chic OKA throws, white wicker chairs and pink candy-striped curtains, opening to reveal those luscious sea views from your own balcony. It’s hard not to stare.

In addition, overseen by the Dorrien-Smiths on a long lease from the Duchy of Cornwall, choose between restored Traditional Cottages and Nantucket-style Flying Boat Cottages. The latter are beach huts extraordinaire: wood-clad with nautical-but-nice interiors, blue and creamy; bright rooms with balconies; and a garden with a barbecue and enough room for a party – plus the Dorrien-Smiths’ quality Cornish art collection on the walls, oils capturing light and sea spray (buy similar at Gallery Tresco).

Eating and drinking on Tresco

Since most of the accommodation on Tresco is self-catering and usually filled with affluent families, the island’s shop, Tresco Stores , is nicknamed Fortnums-on-sea thanks to its well-stocked, well-appointed shelves, weighed down with caviar, organic produce and Champagne. Order online and get goods dropped off to your cottage on the same day. Elsewhere, The New Inn (set to be spruced up in 2022), the charming island pub, is an easy option for hearty dishes made from local produce – Cornish beef burgers or the catch of the day, served with confit potatoes and spicy samphire. While you’re there, make sure you order the islander’s favourite tipple, a shrub and rum (a sweetened vinegar-based syrup with St Martins’ SC Dogs rum, it’s surprisingly good). Ruin Beach Café (pictured above) is a beachside all-day brasserie where the vibe is chilled, and Med-inspired dishes such as the creamy Bryher crab linguine with chilli and lemongrass are definite winners.

Tresco’s Ruin Beach Café is one of the happiest places to eat. A wood-fired oven scents the old stone walls, decorated with beachcombed finds and paintings. Wolf down pizza on the terrace next to the ruins of a smuggler’s cottage and watch swimmers steadily crawl into the horizon. LF

Above: St Agnes

How to get to the Isles of Scilly

Great Western Railway runs direct from Paddington to Penzance (just over five hours).

From Penzance, either hop on a shuttle bus to catch the Scillonian III ferry to St Mary’s (journey time around 2hr 45min) or to Land’s End airport for a 20-minute flight on the Skybus. The Skybus also flies at certain times of the year from Exeter (one hour) and Newquay (30 minutes).

The most reliable way to get to Scilly is aboard the recently launched helicopter service with Penzance Helicopters, a super-slick and speedy service that runs all year round and will see you arrive on Scilly in just 15 minutes from the new heliport in Penzance. Fly to St Mary’s or direct to Tresco, which handily has its own heliport too.

For more information, head to visitislesofscilly.com

Like this? Now read:

The best British islands

The loveliest beaches on the Isle of Wight

20 of the most beautiful islands to visit in Scotland

Why Cornwall has the UK's most exciting food scene right now

Harland & Wolff (Scilly Ferries) Ltd. is a new ferry service launching in Spring 2024 operating between Penzance and St Mary’s.

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Timetable & Book

Travelling with scilly ferries.

At Scilly Ferries, we’re looking to offer you great value fares, exceptional customer service and flexibility in our schedule, whether you’re a resident or visiting Scilly for the first time.

Our first season schedule fits around existing operators and we look forward to working with both harbours to develop our schedule for Season 2 and beyond, ensuring it serves the best interests of visitors, residents and local businesses.

Season 1 Timetable

Our schedule runs from May through to early October. To get started, choose your desired month to travel and then browse the available dates shown. We use variable pricing so booking early gives you the best access to our best prices.

Reserve Now. Pay Later

Plus, as a special launch offer, you won’t have to pay for your travel with us until April. We’ll let you know when it’s time to pay via a secure payment link and send you your e-tickets.

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The Ultimate Isles Of Scilly Travel Guide | England

With sandy white beaches and swaying palm trees, you may think that you’ve arrived on some tropical paradise island. However, you haven’t landed in the Caribbean or Mediterranean but you’re actually in the Isles of Scilly in England! Want to know more? I’ve put together this Isles of Scilly travel guide so you can plan your own trip to this little gem tucked away in the corner of England.

I had heard about the Isles of Scilly before and we recently had the chance to visit them. It had always intrigued me how such a place could exist in England. Somehow, the islands still manage to keep their British charm. You may be on a sandy beach or be walking past palm trees but you almost feel like you’re at a British seaside town back on the mainland.

We had an amazing time on the Scilly Isles and now I want to share everything we learnt from our trip. Enjoy this Isles of Scilly travel guide and plan your own trip to this little slice of paradise in England.

Read More | The Ultimate UK Bucket List

Where Are The Isles Of Scilly?

The secret is out and more and more people are finding out the Isles of Scilly are located in… England! You may be forgiven for thinking that they are located in the Mediterranean but they’re located 45km (35 miles) from the tip of Land’s End, so they are still part of Cornwall in England’s southwest.

The 250-mile journey to Cornwall from London takes around 5 hours by car. Luckily for you, Cornwall is one of England’s most beautiful counties with plenty to do and see. With stunning beaches and beautiful little seaside towns, it’s well worth taking the time to explore this part of the country.

Weather On The Isles Of Scilly

You may have heard people calling the Isles of Scilly ‘the UK’s answer to the Caribbean’ or ‘England’s tropical hidden gem’ but the weather isn’t quite as warm as that. Sure some of the beaches may look like they’ve come straight out of a Caribbean postcard, but the islands are still part of England don’t forget!

The weather follows the typical seasons in the northern hemisphere. August is the warmest month to visit with an average temperature of 19-20°c. The islands are positioned on the end of the North Atlantic Current so temperatures may seem milder compared to the rest of England. There’s a high chance of rain from November to February while the driest month is May.

We visited in July and while we had some long sunny days we also had spots of rain. But I’ve spoken to others who have had nothing but sunshine during the summer months.

How To Get To The Isles Of Scilly

Getting to the Isles of Scilly is half the fun, and needs a bit of planning due to their location. First, you need to make your way to the town of Penzance in Cornwall. So if you’re staying in London for example, you would need to take a train or hire a car. From Penzance, you can make your way over to the island of St. Mary’s by air or by sea!

The Scillonian Ferry

Probably the most common way to get to the Scilly Isles is by ferry. The Scillonian III to be precise! Although a standard adult fare of £65.95 ($81/€76) is not cheap, it is still the most cost-effective way to get to the islands. You will need to purchase a return trip at the same cost!

The ferry journey takes around 2 hours 45 minutes and runs from April to November. It’s quite a nice relaxing journey with comfortable seats and a small cafe on board. If you’re lucky you may even see dolphins or seals on your trip. However, there is only one ferry to St. Mary’s in the morning and one returning in the afternoon. So don’t miss it!

For more information on the Scillonian, head to the website , where you can view an up-to-date timetable and prices.

Day Trip | You can purchase a day trip ticket for £35.00 ($43/€40). I would only recommend this if you’re really, really short on time as you would arrive at St. Mary’s at around 12:30pm and leave again at 16:30pm (average departure times.)

A more convenient way to travel to the Isles of Scilly is the Sky Bus. You can get flights to the Scilly Isles from Exeter, Newquay and Land’s End airports. Depending on the airport, the journey is much quicker – 60 mins from Exeter and only 20 mins from Land’s End!

It’s quite a cool experience on the Sky Bus. If you fly from Land’s End, you can pay for a transfer from Penzance to the tiny little airport. The planes are also very small with only around 8 passengers on board and you even see the pilots doing their thing in the cockpit!

A standard adult ticket starts at £105 ($130/€122) each way so it’s a more expensive option but you can’t put a price on time! There are multiple flights throughout the day, making a day trip (£127) to the Scilly Isles a more tempting option than on the Scillonian.

Check out the official website for timetables and booking.

Fly & Sail | A great option for those who are undecided is to fly one way and sail the other. This is what we did on our trip to the Scilly Isles. This way, you’ll get to experience the best of both worlds

Penzance Helicopters

For a truly grand entrance, why not arrive by helicopter and feel like an A-list celebrity? Penzance Helicopters offers journeys from Penzance to either St. Mary’s or Tresco in only 15 mins! Prices start at £134.50 ($165€156) off-peak and you can book on their website .

Isles Of Scilly Accommodation

The Isles of Scilly are not what you would call a budget travel destination. Although the prices are similar to the rest of the UK in terms of food and drink, accommodation is a little pricey for your typical hotel, B&B. A quick look on Booking.com shows properties for over £200 ($230) per night.

For those who want to travel on a budget, I recommend booking early on Airbnb and staying in Hugh Town, St. Mary’s. This is probably the best bet for cheaper accommodation and there are more options available compared to the other islands. We stayed in an Airbnb for under £100 ($115) per night and were able to explore the other islands using Hugh Town as our base.

Another option is camping. Many of the islands have camping grounds and this is a great option for those who love the outdoors. Prices range from £11 ($12.60) to £55 ($63) per night.

Getting Around The Isles Of Scilly

The Isles Of Scilly consists of 5 inhabited islands and all are well connected by boat. While most visited will be staying in St. Mary’s there are some accommodation options on the other islands.

The islands are only 5-20 minutes apart and are easily accessible from the quay. Times are usually posted on notice boards as well as each island’s own boat service Facebook pages.

Our plan of action was to take a walk to the quay the day before and check out the departure and return times. These may be different due to the tides. We would then buy our tickets (not timed) ready for our trip the next day.

Best Things To Do On The Isles Of Scilly

Eat fresh sea food.

The local farmers and fishermen will tell you that the Scilly Isles have some of the best food in the UK. The food is locally sourced and reared on or around the islands themselves so you know it’s going to be fresh and you’ll be doing the environment a favour by reducing the carbon footprint.

There are many award-winning restaurants and eateries dotted around the isles for you to sample. It goes without saying that seafood should be the top choice when exploring these islands. From fresh fish to lobster, you’ll find an amazing choice of fresh seafood all over the islands and you have to try the lobster roll… yum!

See St. Mary’s

St. Mary’s is the largest of the Scilly Isles and the gateway to the rest of the islands. It is where the airport is located and where the Scillonian arrives and departs. Hugh Town is the main hub where you’ll find shops, cafes, restaurants and the Scilly Isle’s only banks (so withdraw your cash here if you need it!)

St. Mary’s is the best place to base yourself if you want to explore the other islands. You’ll find more accommodation options and there is also plenty to see and do including gin distillery tours and riding around in golf carts.

Island Hopping

There are 5 inhabited islands in Scilly – St. Mary’s, Tresco, St. Martins, St. Agnes and Bryher. Each one is different and a visit to at least one other island is a must! From the gardens of Tresco to the beaches of St. Martins, it’s really worth taking the boat out to all the other islands in this region.

While most people are happy to visit the main islands, there are over 140 more scattered around the archipelago. Many are home to wildlife whilst others are worth exploring due to their uniqueness such as Bishop Rock where a lighthouse sits on the world’s smallest island!

Wildlife Spotting

As previously mentioned, the Scilly Isles are home to an array of marine and sea life. It’s not uncommon to spot dolphins and porpoises whilst out at sea and there are several seal colonies around the islands.

Boat trips are available from the quay but you may have to book in advance and these are very popular in high season. Popular boat trips include the seabird sanctuary island of Annet and the islands east of St. Martin’s where seals and seabirds love to hang out. Another popular option is the glass bottom boat trips from St. Mary and St. Martin’s.

Enjoy The Beaches At St. Martin’s

St Martin’s has some of the best beaches on the Isles of Scilly and it’s the island you want to be on if sunbathing is your thing.

It’s on St Martin’s that you’ll find Great Bay – an untouched, white sand beach with crystal clear waters considered to be the best in the Scilly Isles. You’ll feel like you’re spending the day in the Caribbean instead of England!!

You won’t find any shops or cafes on the beaches so it’s best to stock up on food and drink (take your rubbish/trash please!) The Island Bakery or convenience store are the best places to buy snacks.

Explore The Island Of Tresco

This subtropical island is classy yet chilled! Tresco is a Royal favourite with William and Kate visiting two summers in a row. We enjoyed a beer and snacks at the Ruin Beach Cafe where a local told us William had visited recently.

There are plenty of other things to do on Tresco besides following the Royals and a hike to Cromwell’s Castle is a particular highlight. There are also a few beaches on the island to explore and you can also play a round of golf, or enjoy a spa treatment or yoga session.

See The Tresco Abbey Gardens

The famous Tresco Abbey Gardens are a must-see when visiting the Isles of Scilly. Located on Tresco, there are around 4000 different specimens in the gardens from over 80 countries. Quite incredible if you consider that many of these plants wouldn’t survive anywhere else in the UK.

The entrance to these fabulous gardens costs £18 and there’s no need to book. There’s a cafe and shop there too so you can enjoy a tea or coffee and a sandwich in true Brit style! You can find out more about the gardens on their website .

Walk From Tresco To Bryher

Bryher, the smallest of the inhabited islands, is a contrast of rugged coastlines on the west and calm and sandy on the east. It’s a great place for walks, picnics and beach days. However, several times a year everyone wants to get to/from Bryher and not by boat!

The location, around 230 metres or so from Tresco, can be walked at very low tide! This can only be done a few times each year so it’s quite a popular event! Check out the dates & times when the tide is low if you want to time your visit with this unique event.

Walking On St. Agnes

The Isles of Scilly’s most south-westerly island is wild and untouched. The island is great for walking and you can walk the coast, through little villages and onto untamed beaches. Don’t miss the Gugh sandbar that’s only visible during low tide and if you like Troytown Farm ice cream, well the farm is found right here!

Don’t forget to grab a pint at the famous Turk’s Head pub – the Most South Westerly Pub in the British Isles!

Snorkel With Seals

One of the best things to do in the Scilly isles is to swim with some resident Atlantic grey seals. These cute critters live off the coast of St. Martin’s and you don’t need any experience to participate. The seals are friendly and inquisitive and you’ll be well looked after by Seal Snorkelling Adventures .

The experience costs £55 ($67/€64) and lasts for around 2.5 hours. There are only 2 sessions per day and a maximum of 10 people per group. This is so the seals don’t get too used to having people around. Make sure you book early, especially in the summer months.

I hope you enjoyed reading this Isles of Scilly travel guide. If you have any questions or suggestions then feel free to get in contact. Or just let me know in the comments below .

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Jeff Yip is the owner and author of Life of Y, a blog that helps travellers find adventure travel on a budget. As a travel expert, Jeff has explored over 50 countries (many as a solo traveller), been to 6 continents, and seen all 7 World Wonders. Jeff shares his tips and hacks on Life of Y so others can follow their dreams without breaking the bank.

Isles of Scilly: Travel to the Islands

Passenger ferry to the scilly isles.

Sea services to the islands are provided throughout the main tourist season by the passenger ferry, Scillonian III.

She sails from Monday to Saturday (and occasionally on Sundays), usually leaving Penzance at 09.15am and arriving in Scilly around 12 noon. The 2hr 40 minute journey gives passengers an excellent opportunity to take in sites along the coast such as Lamorna Cove, Tater Dhu Lighthouse, Minack Theatre and Land's End, and as you sail westwards towards the islands it is sometimes possible to see porpoises and the occasional whale!

Scillonian Sailing Dates for 2013 are Monday 25th March to Saturday 2nd November

For full information, special offers, fares and to book online see IOS Travel , or call the Travel Centre on 0845 7105555.

For further information, special offers, day trips and longer stay information visit IOS Travel .

Flights to the Scilly Isles

Air services to the islands are operated by Isles of Scilly Skybus, 6 days a week.

They operate a fleet of Twin Otter aircraft, which seat up to 19 passengers, and smaller Islander aircraft that carry 8 passengers.

Daily flights (excluding Sundays) operate all year around from Lands End and Newquay airports. During the main season (March to October) flights also operate from Exeter Airport.

For full information, special offers, fares and to book online visit IOS Travel , or call the Travel Centre on 0845 7105555.

For the latest deals from First Great Western trains see First Great Western .

Call our holiday team today: 01720 422431 or email [email protected]

Travel to the Isles of Scilly

How do you get to the Isles of Scilly? Well, travelling to the Isles of Scilly is easier than you think. If you can get to West Cornwall then the hardest part is over!

Transport to the islands is simple to arrange and you can choose to go by sea or by air depending on your preference, time schedule or budget.

Travel by Car

Car fuel & electric price calculator.

With the cost of petrol & diesel at record levels recently, Gocompare have designed a fuel price calculator and guidance to help drivers plan ahead for any journey and cut down on fuel use.

If you are the owner of an electric vehicle this journey cost comparison tool may prove useful to you.

Travelling from London/South East

Route#1: Take the M4 west and then change to M5 near Bristol, when you get to Exeter the M5 will end and you continue on the A30 all the way to Penzance.

Route#2: Take the A3/M3 west and then join the A303, continuing until it changes to the A30 just before Honiton, continue on the A30 all the way to Penzance.

Travelling from the South

Take the A31 west, this changes to the A35 just before Dorchester. The A35 continues until it changes to the A30 just before Honiton, continue on the A30 west all the way to Penzance.

Travelling from Scotland

Based on a start from Glasgow take the M74/A74 south. This road changes to the M6 as you enter England, change to the M5 around Birmingham. When you get to Exeter the M5 ends and you will continue on the A30 all the way to Penzance.

Travelling from the North West

Take the M6 south and then change to the M5 around Birmingham. When you get to Exeter the M5 ends and you will continue on the A30 all the way to Penzance.

Travelling from Yorkshire

Take the M1 south and then change to the A42/M42 near Donnington. The M42 will then join the M5, when you get to Exeter the M5 ends and you will continue on the A30 all the way to Penzance.

Local Road Services

Exeter Moto is located at the end of the M5 at Junction 30. With plenty of amenities including Costa, Burger King, M&S Food & WH Smith.

Cornwall Services are located off the Victoria Interchange junction of the A30, the midway point between Exeter and Penzance. Facilities include Costa, McDonald’s, Cornish Kitchen, WH Smith & Rowe’s.

Travel by Train

Travelling by train is one of the most relaxing ways to start your holiday journey to the Isles of Scilly. The nearest train station getting to the islands in Penzance in West Cornwall.

To book a train from anywhere in the UK to Penzance we recommend using Trainline to get your tickets. For further information on getting a train try visiting National Rail Enquiries or call  03457 48 49 50 .

Great Western Railway

You can travel to Penzance by train on Great Western Railway from most areas in the south of England & Wales, such as London, Brighton, Cardiff, Bristol & Oxford to name a few.

CrossCountry

You can also travel to Penzance by train on CrossCountry from England, Scotland & Wales. You can travel direct from from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield, Birmingham, Cambridge, Bristol, Cardiff, plus many more.

Travel by Boat

The Scillonian passenger ferry service is currently the most popular way to get from Penzance to the St Mary’s. The crossing gives you a unique perspective of some of Cornwall’s most iconic coastline. On the Scillonian III there are comfy, reclining seats as well as café bars, serving hot and cold drinks and snacks.

From 2024 there is now an additional provider, Scilly Ferries , for transport to and from the islands.

Boarding Times

Scillonian : Check-in 1 hour before your departure time to be on the safe side. Check-in closes 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Scilly Ferries : TBC.

Travel Duration

Scillonian : Penzance to St Mary’s takes approx. 2 hours and 45 minutes. Scilly Ferries : Penzance to St Mary’s takes approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How to book

For the latest pricing and details how to book please visit  Isles of Scilly Travel or Scilly Ferries .

Luggage Allowance

For more detailed information about taking luggage to the Isles of Scilly look at our luggage advice page.

Travel Sickness

If you are susceptible to travel sickness, then travelling by boat when the sea is choppy can be a challenge. It is recommended you travel by plane or helicopter if you do struggle with sea travel in general.

Travel by Plane

All year round, Skybus is the fastest way to and from the Isles of Scilly. The journey takes just 15 minutes from Land’s End to St Mary’s, 30 minutes from Newquay Airport, and from Exeter it’s 1 hour. You will travel in an 8 or 19-seater plane.

Check-in at least 1 hour before departure time – to be on the safe side. Check in closes 30 minutes before your schedule departure time.

Flight duration

Land’s End to Isles of Scilly takes 15 minutes. Newquay to Isles of Scilly takes 30 minutes. Exeter to Isles of Scilly takes 60 minutes.

For the latest pricing and details how to book the Skybus visit  Isles of Scilly Travel .

Flying from the UK

You can fly to the Isles of Scilly from various locations around the UK, Europe and from further afield.

Fly to Exeter or Newquay using British Airways , Ryanair , Loganair , Aer Lingus , Eastern Airways , SAS Scandinavian Airlines , Eurowings and then you can link to the islands using Skybus .

Travel by Helicopter

Penzance Helicopters  provide helicopter flights to St Mary’s and Tresco on the Isles of Scilly with upto 17 flights a day and flying 6 days a week. They are the only helicopter service to the Isles of Scilly and fly to both St Mary’s and Tresco.

Using modern AW139 helicopters, carrying up to 12 passengers, the journey takes only 15 minutes from Penzance to the islands or vice versa.

The service operates from a modern, purpose-built heliport on the outskirts of Penzance. The heliport – adjacent to the A30 and just one mile from Penzance Railway Station – provides excellent transport connectivity to the Isles of Scilly. A bright, relaxed and airy terminal provides a welcoming area to await your helicopter flight to the Isles of Scilly.

Penzance to Isles of Scilly takes 15 minutes.

For the latest pricing and details how to book your helicopter flights to the Isles of Scilly visit  Penzance Helicopters .

• Nov 8, 2022

How to get to the Isles of Scilly: By Air

Updated: Jul 3, 2023

There are multiple ways to get to the Isles of Scilly, the most popular being air travel. When travelling to the Scilly Isles via plane, you can fly from Exeter, Newquay or Lands End. The Skybus is a 16-seater plane with a dog box. They allow up to 15kg of luggage per person and a small cabin bag each.

In this article, we tell you how you can get to the Isles of Scilly by plane or helicopter and the pros and cons of each airport.

Lands End Airport is a 20-minute drive from Penzance. This airport is the cheapest way to fly via air to the islands and is perfect for those getting the train to Penzance. The Isles of Scilly Travel company offer bus transfers from Penzance Train Station and car parking at Lands End Airport.

How long is the flight?

The flight is 15 minutes long, so ideal for making the most of your time on the islands.

When can you fly?

Flights are usually each hour Monday-Saturday.

What does it cost?

Flights are from £121.50 for a standard ticket, £91.25 for a child ticket, £27.25 for an infant ticket and £46.75 for a dog ticket. They also offer day trip returns discounted from the usual ticket prices.

Newquay airport is 5 miles outside of Newquay central.

This is the perfect option if you're flying from the top of the country into Newquay and want to go straight to the islands. The Skybus flights line up with a lot of the UK domestic flights. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on flights from Newquay.

Car parking is available at Newquay airport; you can book this directly through the airport.

Please note there is airport security as usual at Newquay airport, so all liquids must be in a sealed clear bag.

The flight is 30 minutes long.

Flights from Newquay are limited, with planes only flying Monday, Friday and Saturday. There are usually 1-2 flights on the days of flying.

Flights range from £171.25 for a standard ticket to £128.50 for a child ticket and £44.00 for an infant ticket.

Exeter Airport is located 6 miles outside of Exeter central.

This airport is perfect if you want to avoid travelling down to Cornwall. Most UK airports fly to Exeter, so it's a great option if you want to fly direct to the UK. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on flights from Exeter.

Car parking is available at Exeter airport, which you can book directly through the airport.

Please note there is airport security as usual at Exeter airport, so all liquid need to be in a sealed clear bag.

The flight is an hour long.

Flights from Exeter are usually 2-3 times per day, Monday-Saturday.

Flights range from £236.50 for a standard ticket to £117.50 for a child ticket and £69.25 for an infant ticket.

Penzance Helicopter

When travelling to the Isles of Scilly via helicopter, the heliport is located in Penzance.

This mode of travel is the most reliable if fog is around. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the helicopter. The helicopter is a twin-engine AW139 helicopter that seats up to 12 people and travels directly to St Mary's and Tresco.

There is a car park at the heliport, or they offer a shuttle bus from Penzance train station.

The flight duration is 15 minutes long.

Flights from Penzance heliport are usually every couple of hours, Monday-Saturday.

Flights are from £149.50 for a standard ticket.

Pros and cons of each airport

With all the different modes of transport, there is something to suit everyone. The one thing they all have in common is the undisturbed views of the ocean and islands - you might even see some dolphins!

Once you've confirmed your flights, remember to check out the beautiful accommodation in the Isles of Scilly - there's sure to be something that suits your travel requirements.

We hope that we've provided all you need to know about getting to the Isles of Scilly by air, but if not, please feel free to g et in touch with Scilly Escapes or leave your question in the comments section below.

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How to Get to the Isles of Scilly

Travel to the scilly isles.

Located around 30 miles west of Land's End, the Scilly Isles do present the visitor with some challenges in getting there! Fortunately there are actually a range of options with regular sea and air links between Scilly and the mainland throughout the year. Up until a few years ago transport to the Scillies was very much centred around Penzance . However, flights are now operated from several regional airports.

Below are the main options for getting to the Isles of Scilly . Which method is best for you will depend on the cost, how long it takes and where you wish to travel from. Please note: as a rule none of these links operate on Sundays.

The Scillonian III ferry operates from the Lighthouse Pier in Penzance sailing to Hugh Town on St Mary’s . Carrying up to 600 passengers, it provides a daily service from the end of March until the beginning of November.

The Scillonian generally leaves Penzance at around 09:15 and returns from St Mary’s at around 16:30. The crossing takes an average of around 2hrs 40min although this can vary slightly depending on weather conditions. There are a few days during the summer where additional early / late sailings are run, this includes during the World Pilot Gig Championships .

The Scillonian is the cheapest option and is ideal for a day trip to St Mary’s. It is worth noting that a day trip ticket is around a third the price of an open return. If you are interested in exploring some of the other islands then it might be better to fly or stay for a few days. Another potential drawback of the ferry service arises from the shallow draught (to allow access to St Mary’s harbour) and potentially bumpy seas. Whilst fitted with a stabiliser system the boat still rolls a little.

For further information contact Isles of Scilly Travel on 0845 710 5555

The other option for flying to the Isles of Scilly is by fixed wing aircraft. There are scheduled flights from Land's End, Newquay , Exeter, Southampton and Bristol airports. All flights are to St Mary’s and are surprisingly quick, taking only 90 minutes from Southampton and around 15 minutes from Land's End airport near St Just .

The plane is slightly cheaper than the helicopter but significantly more expensive than the boat for day trips.

The Skybus service is operated by the Isles of Scilly Travel company - T 0845 710 5555

By Helicopter

The helicopter flies from just outside of Penzance direct to both St Mary’s and Tresco with the flight lasting a little over 15 minutes. With several flights per day in the summer and 3 flights a day in the winter this is the quickest (and most expensive) link between the mainland and islands. This is also the only way to get to Tresco directly.

The helicopter carries 9 passengers including children from 2 years up. As of 2023 the flight can also carry a limited number of dogs.

For further information contact Penzance Helicopters on 01736 780828

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The Scilly Isles

Your Online Travel Guide to the Isles of Scilly

When you travel to the Isles of Scilly , it is not just the destination but the journey which is important. It can be a bit of a trek to get to Scilly, unless you live in Cornwall, but the trip really is part of the holiday experience. This introductory guide takes you through the different transport options available, with details of the different operators, prices and times, and gives you some information about travel on and between the islands once you have arrived.

Getting to the Scilly Isles

In order to get to the Scilly Isles, you will need to get to one of the ports which operates services to St Mary’s and Tresco islands. You can fly from places such as Bristol, Southampton, Exeter, Newquay or Penzance by plane, or take the helicopter from Penzance, or catch the ferry from Penzance. Once you have arrived at any of these ports, whether by train, car, coach or bus, you can choose between any of the following options to get to the islands:

British International Helicopters fly from Penzance. This is probably the most spectacular way to arrive, with the turquoise water glistening beneath you, the sun shining overhead and the rocky outcrops of secret islands emerging in the distance. However this option is certainly more expensive, and flights to or from the Scilly Isles may often be cancelled due to bad weather (in which case you will probably be shipped onto the replacement ferry without being refunded the difference).

Unlike the plane and the ferry, you can buy discounted return trips on the helicopter. Singles will cost you ?100 per adult, ?65 per child and ?38 for infants. Period returns cost ?190 for adults, ?119 for children and ?65 for infants. Saver returns – those at special times – are cheaper at ?162 per adult, ?104 per child, and ?62 per infant. Day trip returns cost ?110, ?72 and ?52 respectively.

Get all the details about the Scilly Isles helicopter…

You can get direct or connecting flights to the Scilly Isles from the following locations: Bristol and Newquay (Air South West connections to the Scillies), Penzance, Southampton, Land’s End, Exeter, Aberdeen, Alderney, Cardiff, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guernsey, Inverness, Jersey, Leeds-Bradford, Isle of Man, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich, Plymouth, Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland or New York.

Isles of Scilly Travel runs flights from Southampton, Newquay, Exeter, Bristol and Land’s End to St Mary’s island. The downside of this option is that flights are sometimes cancelled due to bad weather (if this happens you will hopefully board a replacement ferry, but will not be refunded the difference).

Unless you are returning from the Scillies on the same day, then you will have to get two one way fares. The Skybus to or from Land’s End costs ?60 for an adult, ?46.50 for a child, ?27.50 for an infant, and ?12.50 for a dog. From Newquay it is ?75 per adult, ?59 per child, and ?36 per infant. From Exter it is ?100 per adult, ?55 for a child, and ?32 for infants. From Bristol it is ?115 per adult, ?62.50 for a child, and ?36.50 for infants. Flying from Southampton will cost you ?135 per adult, ?79 per child, and ?43.50 per infant.

Get all the details of flights to the Scilly Isles…

Alternatively you can take the Scillonian III ferry, a much cheaper but a much more lengthy and less comfortable option. This passenger ferry is run by Isles of Scilly Travel and sails 6 days per week between March and October each year. This is much more reliable than the helicopter and plane, as these may be cancelled due to bad weather, but if you are accustomed to P&O ferries or fancy cruise ship liners then you are in for a rude awakening. It may be basic, but it is regular, reliable and it gets you there and back!

Unless you are returning from the Scillies on the same day, then you will have to get two one way fares. The ferry from Penzance costs ?42.50 per adult, ?21.50 per child, ?11 for infants, and ?12.50 for dogs.

Get all the details about taking the Scilly Isles ferry…

Getting Around the Scilly Isles

Once you arrive at the Scilly Isles, most of your transport will be my mini-bus taxi, bike, boat or on foot. Mobility scooters are also available in some places. You can take day trips to the different islands, in addition to exploring the island where you are staying. Here is a summary of these different options:

Boat Services

Bryher Boats provide regular crossings between the islands from February to November each year: daily between Tresco and Bryher; Monday-Saturday to St Mary’s; Monday, Wednesday and Friday to St Martin’s; Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday to St Agnes; and circular trips around the islands Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

St Agnes Boating runs a twice daily service between St Agnes and St Mary’s from April to November, in addition to return trips to Bryher, Tresco and St Martin’s. Return journeys will cost you in the region of ?8-?8.50. Or you can opt for a weekly pass which will cost approximately ?30.

Bicycle hire on St Mary’s with Book a Bike is priced at ?12 per day or ?60 per week, and you can cycle round the whole island in just a few hours. St Mary’s Bicycle Hire charges ?10 per day or ?50 per week. You can also hire bikes on Tresco through the Tresco Estate, which again charges ?10 per day or ?50 per week.

Bus and Coach Tours

These last around 1 hour 10 minutes and cost ?8 per person, allowing you to see all of St Mary’s island in no time at all. This options is perfect for some – including day trippers – who want a convenient way to see everything. The tours are operated Monday-Saturday, twice per day, by Island Rover .

Thanks for reading about how to travel to the Isles of Scilly , and about the kinds of transport within and between the islands of Scilly. Now that you know how to get there, take a look at the different islands…

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Our winter flight schedule operating out of Land’s End Airport is now LIVE and ready for bookings!

Standard and day trip fares

The best prices are usually available in advance by booking online but please check our home page for details of any current special offers or discounts. You will normally find the best fares by avoiding peak travel times such as Friday, Saturday or Monday. *Limited seats available at the from prices.

STANDARD SINGLE 2024

Standard (12+) from £83.90 Child (2-11) from £47.00 Infant (0-1) from £23.40 Dogs £11.00

DAY TRIP RETURN 2024

Standard (12+) from £35.00 Child (2-11) from £17.50 Infant (0-1) from £10.50

TRAVEL TIME & FREQUENCY

2hrs 45mins March – November

Standard (12+) from £134.00 Child (2-11) from £100.50 Infant (0-1) from £30.00 Dogs £51.60

DAY TRIP 2024

Standard (12+) from £127.00 Child (2-11) from £101.50 Infant (0-1) from £44.50

20 minutes Year Round

Standard (12+) from £188.85 Child (2-11) from £141.70 Infant (0-1) from £48.50

30 minutes March – November

Standard (12+) from £273.15 Child (2-11) from £205.00 Infant (0-1) from £80.00

60 minutes March – November

N/A for single fares please see above

Standard (12+) from £84.20 Child (2-11) from £62.00 Infant (0-1) from £28.50

Fly: 20 minutes Sail: 2hrs 45mins

March – November

William to make first visit to Isles of Scilly since becoming Duke of Cornwall

William will carry out engagements in Newquay on Thursday May 9 and on the Isles of Scilly on Friday May 10.

The Prince of Wales will make his first official visit to the Isles of Scilly since becoming Duke of Cornwall.

On Thursday he will visit the site where the Duchy of Cornwall’s first homeless housing project will be built, in Nansleden, Newquay.

The project, delivered alongside Cornish charity St Petrocs, will provide 24 homes with wraparound support for homeless people.

William will meet the development’s leaders and the chief executive of St Petrocs, Henry Meacock.

Construction will begin in September this year, and land for the homes is being provided by the Duchy.

William will then visit Fistral beach, where he will meet organisations who take care of it.

On Friday, he will make his first official visit to the Isles of Scilly since becoming the Duke of Cornwall in September 2022.

William will visit St Mary’s harbour, which is run by the Duchy, and handles passengers and vessels.

He will spend time with harbour operators before paying a visit to St Mary’s Community Hospital.

The small hospital provides both inpatient and outpatient clinics for the Isles of Scilly and wraparound care to island residents and visitors.

The Duchy is working with the local council to build a new integrated health and social care facility on land it owns adjacent to the hospital.

William will meet hospital staff, where he will hear about the challenges of providing healthcare on an island.

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William to make first visit to Isles of Scilly since becoming Duke of Cornwall

The Prince of Wales will make his first official visit to the Isles of Scilly since becoming Duke of Cornwall.

William will carry out engagements in Newquay on Thursday May 9 and on the Isles of Scilly on Friday May 10.

On Thursday he will visit the site where the Duchy of Cornwall’s first homeless housing project will be built, in Nansleden, Newquay.

The project, delivered alongside Cornish charity St Petrocs, will provide 24 homes with wraparound support for homeless people.

William will meet the development’s leaders and the chief executive of St Petrocs, Henry Meacock.

Construction will begin in September this year, and land for the homes is being provided by the Duchy.

William will then visit Fistral beach, where he will meet organisations who take care of it.

On Friday, he will make his first official visit to the Isles of Scilly since becoming the Duke of Cornwall in September 2022.

William will visit St Mary’s harbour, which is run by the Duchy, and handles passengers and vessels.

He will spend time with harbour operators before paying a visit to St Mary’s Community Hospital.

The small hospital provides both inpatient and outpatient clinics for the Isles of Scilly and wraparound care to island residents and visitors.

The Duchy is working with the local council to build a new integrated health and social care facility on land it owns adjacent to the hospital.

William will meet hospital staff, where he will hear about the challenges of providing healthcare on an island.

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