Now the islands are in full swing you don’t need to jump on a long haul-flight to plan a fun adventure. There's nowhere better, or more unique, than taking time to explore what's on your doorstep, especially on a day trip to Scilly. Let us help you reconnect with yourself and your loved ones in a single day, to these tiny set of islands, afloat at the foot of Cornwall.
And given the life we’ve all led over the last few months, our wellbeing has never felt more important. What we can do for you in a day will certainly work its magic; think rejuvenating escapes filled with space, fresh air, peace, and uninterrupted views, as well as newfound experiences exploring sea, coast and self.
And apart from your travel schedule to and from the islands – the rest – well, spend as little or as long as you like exploring our handy suggestions to fulfil your passions or give yourself time just to be.
If you’re in the market for long white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, uncluttered with people, and distractions amounting only to the stunning natural surroundings, then the Isles of Scilly is the place for you. Home to more than 35 paradise beaches scattered across the archipelago, they are arguably our finest attraction and often come with amazing views. Which will you choose?
Somehow Scilly makes you want to run the 200 metres to the nearest beach and dive in. Everything here feels brighter, cleaner, fresher, somehow, than it does on mainland Britain and there is nowhere else quite like Scilly for embracing wild swimming. No matter which island you’re on the clear, crystal waters are mesmerising and inviting. Packing a wetsuit might prove too bulky, but swim socks, gloves and a hat will make fine choices for a quick dip for an amazing sea swimming experience. Katia Vastiau shares her passion for a spot of wild swimming on Scilly with us right here.
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Our islands were made for walking, not least coveted by our walking festival every spring. All the islands are walkable in a day or half-day; unspoilt, untouched, and truly peaceful. You can enjoy the spectacular coastal paths, nature trails, fields of flowers and top-to-toe island walks year-round. Note, if you go off island factor in the time to arrive on St. Mary’s to coordinate with the tripper boats which leave at various times depending on tides (normally around 10ish – see our island-hopping guide for more tips). Resident walking guides, naturalists and ornithologists offer guided walks across Scilly throughout the season – a brilliant opportunity to appreciate island life at its finest. But you may wish to amble off on your own. Here’s what some of our fairweather islanders have to say about their favourite spots.
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Photo credit: Diggory Gordon & Tresco Island
Guided or not, there’s nothing to stop you from practising a few asanas, along with your ujjayi breath, on your chosen beach; there is plenty of space to get into your zone – what could be more relaxing than fresh air, sand between your toes and the sound of the ebb and flow of the sea to set the vibe? Want to join a group? Adventure Scilly are on hand.
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Explore the splendour of privately-owned Tresco which has been described as ‘Kew with the lid off’. A half day should do it ambling through the botanical gardens with a splendid display of some 20,000 plant varieties from around the world, not seen anywhere else in the UK. The Mediterranean feel of the gardens will keep you wandering in awe for hours. During your visit don’t miss the Valhalla Museum and the collection of shipwreck figureheads to learn more about our amazing maritime history. Explore the splendour of Tresco right here.
Tip: you can fly direct to Tresco with Penzance Helicopter. (More travel information below)
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Fly aboard Skybus direct to St. Mary’s from Lands’ End.
Daytrip return 12+ from £127 and children from £44.50
Contact: www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk | 01736 334220
Fly to either St Mary’s or Tresco with Penzance Helicopters for a truly unique and memorable journey. Your 15-minute flight takes you to either St Mary’s or Tresco – and you can even fly into one island and back from another for a real island-hopping day out.
There are two options:
Contact: www.penzancehelicopters.co.uk/daytrips | 01736 780828
Board Scillonian III passenger ferry at Penzance Harbour for a 2hr 45min journey to St. Mary’s (available April – November)
Adult daytrip return is from £35 per person and children from £10 per person
Contact: www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk | 01736 334220
Isles of Scilly Travel give you the flexibility of making the most of your day on the islands with their fly and sail in a day return option. Fly from Lands' End Airport to St. Mary's with Skybus and return late afternoon aboard the Scillonian III, St. Mary's to Penzance.
Standard Daytrip adult return from £89.75 and children from £58.25
Contact: www.islesofscilly-travel.co.uk | 01736 334220
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© Islands' Partnership
