Sub-tropical splendour

Tresco

Lose yourself in Tresco's sub-tropical splendour - a sophisticated island escape with a layer of luxury.

This island has a little bit of everything – from dramatic rocky outcrops, bronze age burial sites and romantic castle ruins, to secluded sandy beaches and, of course, the world famous Tresco Abbey Garden which was established in the 1830s by Augustus Smith. This horticultural paradise hosts a spectacular collection of more than 20,000 exotic plants from all corners of the world – many of which cannot be grown anywhere else in Britain. The Valhalla collection within the Garden is equally impressive with its colourful display of figureheads salvaged from the islands’ shipwrecks.

The rugged north of the island is a great place to walk and explore, while in the centre of the island, there are bird hides to seek out around Tresco’s freshwater pools. You can hire bikes to travel around, or if you are feeling active, borrow a boat, windsurf or kayak from Tresco Sailing Club. The island is also excellent for beachcombing or simply relaxing on a beach - there’s no finer spot to chill than the sugar-fine white sand of Pentle and Appletree Bays.

Whatever you choose to do on Tresco, you’ll notice that it oozes sophistication at every level - from its top-notch accommodation, art gallery and fabulous deli to the amazing eateries serving fine local produce and the award-winning leisure spa.

Things to Do on Tresco

Tresco seamlessly combines natural beauty and historical charm, offering a variety of activities for all interests. Explore the famous Tresco Abbey…

View of the blue bridge at Tresco Abbey Garden

Places to Stay on Tresco

From luxurious five-star beachfront homes offering stunning ocean views to charming traditional stone cottages nestled in serene surroundings, and…

Food & Drink on Tresco

Indulge in a variety of dining experiences on Tresco, from the island's renovated gastro pub and a stylish café & deli to delicious…

What's On Tresco

Discover unforgettable experiences in a truly unique setting – from live music and low tide events to garden tours, G&T nights, and much…

Tresco

A Potted History of Tresco Island

2 min read

Explore the world-famous Tresco Abbey Garden on the Isles of Scilly, home to over 20,000 exotic plants from 80 countries, historic ruins, and stunning…

Tresco

How a humble hedge created a heavenly garden

3 min read

Journalist, broadcaster, and author Hazel Southam reflects on Augustus Smith's vision to create and preserve the idyllic Tresco Abbey Garden…

How a humble hedge created a heavenly garden

Tresco Makers Market

Mar 26, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025

Join a host of talented islanders from Tresco, as well as several from Bryher and St Mary's too. The…

Mar 26

The Low Tide Event

Apr 29, 2025 - Sep 9, 2025

When lunar forces combine to create dramatic Spring Tides, the channel between Tresco and Bryher is dry enough to cross…

Apr 29

Walk between Tresco & Bryher

Mar 26, 2025 - Nov 7, 2025

Occasionally, extreme Spring Tides cause the water barrier between Tresco and Bryher to vanish for a few precious hours…

Mar 26

Scilly 60

The Scilly 60 Race is the original event – an ultra marathon trail race with a difference. Racers will cover…

Jun 22

Things to Do

Aquatic Escapes Not To Miss

4 min read

Explore Scilly’s vibrant outdoor spirit – ideal for adventurous couples and friends…

Things to Do

Scilly: Your Ideal Easter Getaway

3 min read

Planning a visit to the Isles of Scilly this Easter? These beautiful islands offer plenty of…

Hector Hunt

Things to Do

10 Ways to Nourish Your Soul in 2025

8 min read

Ready to hit reset? Embrace a slower pace of life on the Isles of Scilly. Whether you're…

Lighting the way: lighthouses on Scilly

4 min read

One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive in the Isles of Scilly is the striking…

Endurance Events

The history of our pilot gigs

2 min read

Back in the mid-19th Century, around 200 men worked as pilots on the Isles of Scilly. Today, gigs…

Wildlife & Nature

The Puffins Return

2 min read

One of Scilly’s most popular seabirds, the puffins, are back on the islands, and…

Nature

Drawn to the Seas Around Scilly

4 min read

A feeling - a sense of something special. Experience the Isles with award-winning writer Wyl…

Nature

An Island Garden

4 min read

The entire archipelago is a garden in one and a kaleidoscope of colour with horticulture, husbandry…

Gallery

Makers & Galleries

3 min read

Browse the many artistic collectives and makers on the islands, curated with loving care and rooted…

Food & Drink

Growers & Producers

3 min read

Savour an intriguing tipple or tasty treat, fill your home with the fragrance of handpicked, scented…

Wildlife & Nature

Beneath the Waves

2 min read

The Isles of Scilly boast a unique marine ecosystem, nourished by the nutrient-rich Atlantic waters…

Tom Ingram

Wildlife & Nature

A Whale of An Adventure!

3 min read

Sightings of whales between islands on the Isles of Scilly are extremely rare, but when news broke…

St. Mary's

Explore beautiful St. Mary's, the largest island in the archipelago, where history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture come together. Wander through Hugh Town, visit ancient sites, and enjoy breath-taking coastal walks, tranquil beaches, and scenic viewpoints

Bryher

Bryher is an island of captivating contrasts, where rugged cliffs give way to peaceful, glassy coves. Its dramatic coastline and tranquil bays provide a blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal getaway. A sanctuary for artists and creatives, Bryher’s stunning landscapes inspire painters…

St. Martin's

St. Martin's is a true beach paradise, boasting miles of pristine white sands framed by lush marram-topped dunes and swaying palm trees. This idyllic island offers a tranquil escape with its stunning coastal beauty and tropical ambiance.

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St. Agnes & Gugh

Discover the wild beauty of Britain’s most south-westerly outpost, where ancient Bronze Age burial sites and barren heathland paint a picture of the island’s rich past. Its rugged landscapes and unique wildlife offer a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal escape for history…

Uninhabited Islands

Explore the uninhabited islands of the Isles of Scilly, where some hold traces of past communities, and others remain untouched sanctuaries for birds and wildlife. These islands offer a unique blend of history, mystery, and unspoiled natural beauty.

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