If you crave the allure of sparkling turquoise waters and expansive white-sand beaches, you don’t need to fly to the Caribbean. Just a short journey from Cornwall, you’ll find the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago that rivals any tropical getaway. Often hailed as the ‘Sunshine Islands,’ this enchanting destination is known for its stunning beaches and warm temperatures, considered the best in the UK.
Easily accessible by ferry, plane, or helicopter, day trips from the mainland allow you to soak up the island’s beauty on a tight schedule. But those who stay longer will encounter a destination that embodies ‘a slower, easier way of life,’ according to Lonely Planet. The Isles of Scilly tourism website poetically describes them as a ‘natural wonder, like a cluster of precious ocean jewels, where nature thrives and the soul is inspired.’ Ready to pack your bags? Here’s everything you need to know.
Where are the Isles of Scilly?
Located just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall, the archipelago consists of 140 isles, with only five inhabited: St Mary’s, Tresco, St Martin’s, Bryher, and St Agnes. The collective population of these islands is a mere 2,200.
St Mary’s, the largest island, serves as the ‘gateway to the islands,’ where most visitors begin their journey. Hugh Town is the main center of St Mary’s, offering a charming array of shops, galleries, cafes, restaurants, and pubs.
Tresco is another gem, boasting ‘a bit of everything’ – from dramatic rocky outcrops to romantic castle ruins. The two-mile-long St Martins Island boasts ‘some of the finest beaches in the British Isles.’ Bryher, the smallest island, is dotted with charming cottages, hills, and rugged cliffs. St Agnes, on the south-westerly edge of Scilly, is separated from the rest of the islands by a deep water channel and features a bird sanctuary, flower fields, and a lighthouse at its highest point.
What is the best way to travel to the Isles of Scilly?
The easiest way to reach the Isles of Scilly is by catching a train to Penzance in Cornwall. National Rail offers services to and from Paddington, with fares starting from £49 one way. The journey takes approximately five hours.
From Penzance, you have three transportation options: ferry, plane, or helicopter, all offering breathtaking views. The Scillonian III Ferry is conveniently located a short walk from Penzance station. Alternatively, you can fly to St Mary’s and Tresco from Penzance Heliport.
Isles of Scilly Travel operates a ferry from Penzance to St. Mary’s, which takes two hours and 45 minutes. Standard tickets are priced at £83.90.
For travelers not keen on going to Penzance, flight options are available from Newquay, Exeter, and Land’s End airports. A standard single Skybus flight from Land’s End to St. Mary’s costs £134, while Newquay to St. Mary’s is £188.85. The most expensive flight option is Exeter to St. Mary’s, priced at £273.15.
Island Hopping
Island hopping is a popular way to explore Scilly. Several boat services operate daily trips, including St Mary’s Boatmen’s Association and St Agnes Boating.
Where are the best beaches on the Isles of Scilly?
Scilly boasts over 35 beaches, providing visitors with an abundance of choices. Porth Loo Beach on St. Mary’s is ideal for rock pooling. The island itself boasts nearly 10 miles of coastline, with Porthcressa, Town Beach, and Porthmellon being the most accessible.
Tresco has been a favorite among the royals, with Prince William and Kate Middleton visiting for a family holiday, and Princess Diana and Charles landing on the island for a break in 1989. Pentle Bay on Tresco was named one of the best ‘undiscovered’ beaches in the world.
On Tresco, you’ll also find the Tresco Abbey Garden, home to plants from every Mediterranean climate zone outdoors. Tresco is known for its lush climate and ability to grow tropical plants due to the influence of the Gulf Stream.
Lawrence’s Bay on St. Martins was described as ‘paradise’ by TikToker @cornwall_lover, who wrote in the caption of the video: ‘Can you believe this is here in the UK.’ Rushy Bay, an idyllic beach on the island of Bryher, will leave anyone thinking they were on a tropical island or somewhere in the Mediterranean when they see their holiday snaps. It was voted second in a list of the best hidden UK beaches without many crowds in a 2023 study.
St. Agnes is said to have the most rugged terrain out of the inhabited islands, including the Bar, Beady Pool, and Periglis Cove.
What is the weather like on the Isles of Scilly?
Scilly has rightfully earned its ‘Sunshine Islands’ status, boasting some of the mildest and warmest climates in the UK. The best months to visit are between May and September. The islands have an average annual temperature of 12°C, but it can climb to just under 20°C in summer. Even in the latter part of the year, the islands often get late summer sun.
When it’s cooler, the stunning autumn colors and moody seas make this spot still well worth a visit. If you visit in October, you’re more likely to spot seals during their breeding season.
Where to stay on the Isles of Scilly?
Traveling during the shoulder season, in May or October, when there are fewer tourists, is a good idea if you want to find a bargain hotel stay. St Mary’s is a great place to base yourself, as it’s the largest island with the best transport links to the mainland.
There are plenty of hotels and B&B options scattered around the islands, as listed on the tourist website. Star Castle Hotel, perched on a hilltop above Hugh Town, is a fantastic place to soak in the island’s views. Garden Rooms, including breakfast, start at £235 per night in low season and climb to £412 in high season.
For budget-friendly accommodation, prices at the Bell Rock Hotel start from £99 per night.
Five places to stay in St Marys on the Isle of Scilly
* Star Castle Hotel – from £235 per night
* Bell Rock Hotel – from £99 per night
* St Mary’s Hall Hotel – from £282 per night
* Atlantic Inn – from £225 per night
* Tregarthen’s Hotel – from £205 per night
Prices are correct as of September 2024 for a one-night double-room stay during off-peak season.
