Tresco Times Yearbook 2022 by Allies Group Ltd

2022 YEARBOOK

OUR VIEWS ARE CLEAR

TRESCO TIMES

2022 YEARBOOK

WELCO M E

Our paradise awaits After all the trials and tribulations of the last two years, I’m so pleased to be writing this introduction to The Tresco Times. It has been a roller coaster ride for everyone, and the islands have felt particularly threatened and precarious during this pandemic. On behalf of Lucy and my family, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all the Tresco Estate team, who responded magnificently to the extra demands placed upon them. They made considerable efforts to deliver the best holiday experience possible, despite the complex restrictions introduced. It’s fair to say that after such a tumultuous time, everybody that came to Tresco’s peaceful shores seemed to feel the benefit. Nevertheless, it was inevitable that some elements of the island experience did have to be curtailed to accommodate the ‘new normal’. I want to thank all our guests who have shown such understanding and tolerance, and we all look forward to 2022 when, hopefully, things return to more of a ‘normal normal’! As I write, the whole Estate team is working full tilt to catch up on lost time, particularly with major projects at The New Inn, islander housing, and replacing the old Blockhouse Cottages. Beyond these headline projects, the whole island is abuzz with mainland tradesmen refurbishing the holiday cottages as we continue our programme of upgrades. For the broader islands, perhaps the most significant development in recent times was the announcement in the October budget that the islands are to receive £48.4m for new ships and improvements to quays at Penzance, St. Mary’s and New Grimsby. We have been “levelled up” and are loving it! This is a game-changer and will secure the islands for a generation. Just imagine a faster Scillonian with stabilisers, comfy seats and hybrid propulsion systems. An exciting prospect. So well done to our MP Derek Thomas and the island team, who devoted vast amounts of time and effort to put our case forward. And of course, well done to Rishi for listening. With all best wishes from all on Tresco as we look forward to a smoother 2022.

Robert Dorrien-Smith

Cover image by Ross Hoddinott T R E S C O. C O. U K | 3

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CON T EN TS

Take a look inside 8

Lockdown dreams of Tresco

Tresco’s beloved pub gets a makeover

Anna Parkes on the benefits of wild swimming

The ultimate picnic

Travel to Tresco by helicopter

Pop-up foodie events

Updates from Tresco

Delicious Tresco recipes to make at home

Inspirational Emily Parsons

Bryher’s luxury hotel

A special Tresco clothing collection

A farm feeding the islands

Exlpore Lighthouse

Things to do on land and sea

A look around Cobblers

Securing the future of these special creatures

A festive island experience

Painting the islands

Photography breaks on Tresco

What’s on in 2022

The islands’ only rum distillery

Your favourite photos

ISLANDER STORIES

GROUNDED BY THE SEA

FLYING HIGH

ISLAND NEWS

MEET THE DESIGNER

ISLAND DESIGNS

A BEACON OF LIGHT

TAKE A TOUR

TRESCO AT CHRISTMAS

ISLAND LIFE THROUGH A LENS

ANCHORED IN HERITAGE

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A NEW LOOK AT THE NEW INN

ISLAND TREASURES

INDULGE ON THE ISLAND

ISLAND EATS

A HEAVENLY STAY AT HELL BAY

PICK OF THE CROP

OUT AND ABOUT

PROTECTING HONEY BEES

ARTIST FOCUS

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

#MY TRESCO

TO MAKE A BOOKING

+44 (0)1720 422849 contactus@tresco.co.uk TRESCO.CO.UK

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EDITED BY Claudia Robinson

DESIGN Allies Group Ltd

PUBLISHED BY Allies Group Ltd on behalf of Tresco Estate

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While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written permission from the publisher. All information is correct at time of going to print December 2021.

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2020 YEARBOOK

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2020 YEARBOOK

Tresco Island SOMEW HER E ELSE ALTO GETH E R

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Island stories During the second lockdown, we asked you to share your island stories - happy memories of our beautiful island bringing a smile to your face during an extraordinary moment in time. Here are just a few...

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Russell “We’ve been coming to Tresco as a family since 2015 (although many in the family have visited since 2000) and our parents now have a 40 year timeshare in Sunfish we come every year. We take family photos in the same place every year. Imagine how different they’ll be in 40 years time? My wife and I bring our running gear and during a week, complete several laps of the whole island. It’s the most fantastic running route. I’ve pledged to do this run every year, my last will be when I am 70! Dad was 60 when he got the timeshare and he hopes to have his 100th birthday party on the island. Our daughter Sophia (5) likes an early morning dip in the sea, so this year several of us would go down at 7-8am for a morning swim. These are just some of the things we look forward to every year.”

Emma Jo “One of my favourite memories of this beautiful island was a short holiday with our family, myself, husband and two daughters, and my mother-in-law, then in her early nineties. We stayed at the Island Hotel on this occasion and one morning hired bikes. Mum had a tricycle, due to her age. We set off as a group and didn’t go far before Mum had to be rescued from a flowerbed! She’d forgotten about brakes and ended up stranded among the flowers. We decided she was better off sitting with a drink out in the lovely sunshine. We had several holidays with her on Tresco, all of them wonderful; great memories of a very engaging old lady who used to say how sad she felt for all those poor old folks who were much younger than she was.”

“I’ve been coming to Tresco for over 30 years (since I was 5!) and the magic of the island seems to grow with each visit. Tresco has always been my “Happy Place”. Whatever’s going on in my life at the time, when I get to the island nothing seems to matter anymore - it just brings a sense of calm and joy back into everything. From toddler to teenager to new parent, it’s the perfect place to be. And I’m so happy to now be sharing this magic with my own children who already call it their favourite place on earth.”

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Louise “It was August 14 2007 - two days remaining of our holiday on Tresco and it was a rainy, rather blustery morning. We were reading and playing the odd game of cards in the lounge area of the Island Hotel and Simon had spent practically all morning on the phone to ‘work’. He came off the phone at last and said ‘let’s go for a walk and when we get back, lunch and a glass of wine’. I replied ‘I’ve had too much wine this holiday and it’s raining’ as we trudged up the road and headed towards the Blockhouse. As we approached the mound just in front of the entrance to the Blockhouse, Simon turned to me and proposed with a ring he had found in the Hotel shop. He’d been on the phone all morning trying to track down my father to ask for his permission. The sun came out and a rainbow appeared and we had champagne back at the bar. We’ve returned many times, at the same time of year, staying now in Scallop, to allow us the same view.”

Jess “When I was a child, my father let me in on a big secret: he’d booked a visit to Tresco for my mother’s 40th birthday. We turned up in January and we stayed at Ivy Cottage for a week of battering winds, torrential rain and constant darkness. We fell in love! My parents bought week 13 at Sandy Lane off plan, then and there. It’s now been more than 25 years and I’ve missed maybe three visits in all that time. Five years ago my husband and I bought week 14 at Sandy Lane and now, each April, it becomes a wonderful, relaxing fortnight of family time. This year it’s my 40th birthday and we’re so hoping to make it there - the trouble is, I can’t think of another way to celebrate it which would ever quite match up”

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Andy “I travelled alone to Scilly when I was 21, having left an awful job just the day before. I stepped out of the office, booked my train and flight from London, and went. I was looking for peace and quiet, and to do some photography without any distractions. I grabbed a bike and had six incredible days in paradise, island hopping and looking for the best beaches. I always think of that trip during dreary times like this with winter, Covid and lockdowns.”

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Daisy “Getting proposed to at Blockhouse has to be my favourite island story. It was Christmas Eve 2017 and my partner Craig (who normally likes to be inside) said he wanted to go for a walk - which would be fine except it was raining but my mum pretty much pushed me out with him! He tried to make it fun by getting us to run in and out of the waves on the way to Blockhouse but I wasn’t fast enough and so my Uggs absorbed all of the seawater! We finally squelched up to Blockhouse and found our family bench. We sat on the bench looking out to sea and I actually thought he was breaking up with me until he got down on one knee. Ran home to find my mum peeking out the window waiting for me.”

Phoebe Mim “Tresco is so special to me and my family - my Dad was taken there a few times by my Nana when he was small. My Stepmum, my Dad and Nana then took my sister and me when we were little - once for my Dad and Stepmum’s wedding, with us, our little brother, Nana and Grandparents. In July, we all managed to go back with my nephews, both my brothers, brother’s partner and my partner, to scatter our Nana’s ashes. I hope to take my own children one day. We’ll never forget Tresco, it will always have a special place in our hearts, and will always remind me of my beloved Nana Bobbie.”

“I first came to Tresco when I was four years old, and my family and I have been pretty much every year since. 21 years later, we still love it! One of my favourite Scilly stories was when I was six and we were staying in Ocean View. After my brother and I were put to bed, my parents nipped next door to our friends’ for dinner. They came to check on us half an hour later, only to find that I’d managed to unlock the door and my brother and I were playing on the beach in front of the sunset! A small panic for my parents but still a lovely memory of my favourite place in the world!”

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Grounded by the sea It is one of those beautifully crisp, crystal clear, blue-sky autumn days when Tom Matthews meets Anna Parkes in her little office above Gallery Tresco... Gazing out across the harbour I’m struck by the steely, greengrey of the sea. It’s a colour you only see in the autumn and winter; at once inviting and foreboding. Part of me just wants to dive right in; another part just can’t get past how cold it looks. Perhaps Anna can give me some wise words of advice for the aspiring sea swimmer? Walk past her house on Timothy’s Corner, summer or winter, and there’s always a towel and swimsuit flapping on the line, a flag signalling the success of another swim. “I just don’t allow myself to not have a sea swim. If I stopped and really thought about it, I’d probably never go, particularly in winter when the fire’s alight, there’s a storm blowing through, and my husband Steve is looking at me like I’m crazy,” she laughs.

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“But it’s the cold that gives you the benefits,” Anna explains. “I live with a chronic health condition that I really struggled with for years; nothing I was prescribed seemed to help, and some things actually made it worse. That’s when I started looking into the benefits of cold water therapy.” In recent years, scientific studies have proven sea swimming in cold water really is good for you. “Almost as soon as I started sea swimming, my physical health improved. Swimming in cold water is good for your heart, your immune system, your lungs, your circulation – even though it might not feel like it at the time,” Anna laughs. “When you get out, you have this fantastic feeling called afterglow. It’s a very real, physical reaction to the cold water – but it’s a mental response

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Anna (centre) apres-swim with friends Kate and Fiona

too. I say you never regret a sea swim; when you get out, you can really bask in the incredible feeling it leaves you with. “I get in the water because of what I get out of it – mentally as well as physically. “Sea swimming lends itself to a wonderful, watery meditation. When you enter cold water, you have to concentrate on your breath which, of course, is what you do as part of any meditative practice. The repetition of the stroke, of your breath, it leads you to a magical place.” During the pandemic, Anna found these mental health benefits of sea swimming more important than ever. “The virus hadn’t reached Scilly’s shores, yet we weren’t immune – literally or figuratively. So I think many of us lived with a mix of fear that the virus would reach us and some sense of guilt that we were living out lockdown on this paradise island.” “I suppose my way of dealing with that was to count my blessings, feel humbled, and never take my life here for granted. This was always my thinking, even before Coronavirus, but it became all the more important during the pandemic.” With the island closed to visitors, Anna’s position was furloughed, and she suddenly found herself with more time in her day – a bittersweet silver lining. “I always had to fit in my daily swim around work,” Anna recalls. “Without realising it, I had become quite a creature of habit, always heading to

Appletree or Pentle Bay because I knew I could sandwich that into my day. “What lockdown gave me was a yearning to explore the island I thought I knew. Most days, I would pass the bench up at Rushy Point on the banks beneath Blockhouse,” she recalls. “I’d find myself gazing down at this incredible, almost ethereal stretch of silver-white sand and turquoise water – Cradle Porth. I think in my mind it had become something of an enigma; inaccessible, remote and mysterious. “One day, though, a low tide walk led me onto the beach, and it was a revelation. From that day, Cradle Porth became my sanctuary; the highlight of my day.

“It felt like a little bubble away from the reality of life – yet it was very much my reality, a real anchor in the unsettling times we all lived through” T R E S C O. C O. U K | 1 3

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“Sea swimming lends itself to a wonderful, watery meditation”

“It’s the most incredible beach to swim. You’re swimming over the most beautiful white sand; there are no rocks or seaweed, just the undulating landscape of the seabed playing out beneath you. It felt like a little bubble away from the reality of life – yet it was very much my reality, a real anchor in the unsettling times we all lived through.” Despite the backdrop of fortune and an island idyll, as for everyone living through lockdown, there were times where Anna struggled. “I’m a social creature, I love my family, and I love my job, so there were certainly hard days,” she recalls. “It was those hard times where I knew I had to pick myself up and go and find that afterglow; rediscover that inner strength that I knew was inside me. “When you’re finding life overwhelming, you have to throw down the gauntlet; set yourself a challenge; prove to yourself how strong you are. That’s what sea swimming does for me – it allows me to prove my grit, my determination, to look in the mirror and say, “You go, girl.” To feel a real sense of achievement.” On Anna’s office wall, there is a quote from the Dalai Lama: “Live a good, honourable life. Then when you get older and think back, you’ll be able to enjoy it a second time.” “That’s how I try to live my life,” says Anna. “I think the older I get, the more I want to hold on to that sense of pushing myself, of living a life I’m proud of.” When Anna turned 60, with friends talking about bucket lists and big adventures, Anna’s dreams lay closer to home. “I’m not really thirsty for a lot of things in life – I’m pretty happy with my lot – but there was one thing that had always been in my head: the notion of swimming around Tresco. It’s been my home for 43 years, and I’m not aware of anyone else that’s ever done it.” On September 8 2019, Anna slipped into the water at 7:45am and set off on her greatest challenge. Accompanying her in his boat, husband Steve was lifeguard, moral support and – though he would never admit it to her – concerned onlooker. “It was in at the deep end – quite literally,” she recalls. “The first leg was to swim up the channel and into the black waters of the north end. There are two types of sea swimming – the silver-sand-and-turquoisewater beach dips and dark water swimming, where you can’t see the bottom, and you really are at the mercy of the sea.” As Anna swam up past Cromwell’s Castle, she pushed out into the dark waters of the north end. Ahead of her lay Kettle Rock – a jagged

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granite outcrop with a fearsome reputation for ‘boiling’ – almost always surrounded by white water, spume and spray. “We’d been out there a few weeks earlier on a training swim in what we thought was flat-clam weather,” recalls Anna. “Even then, we had to give up, such was the ferocity of the converging currents and groundswell out there. “So, approaching the Kettle was a huge challenge in itself. I couldn’t prepare for it; I just had to grit my teeth and go for it. As it was, I ended up having to climb onto the boat to catch my breath as the chop threatened to overwhelm me and the currents pulled me towards the shore.” It was then Anna spotted a figure watching her from the clifftops; fellow sea swimmer Fiona had followed Anna from the moment she entered the water. “I’d only told half a dozen people I was doing the swim, so seeing someone watching changed everything – I had to continue. I asked Steve if the tide was with me or against me; he told me it was with me, and that was all I needed to hear.” Something had changed. “When I got in and went from Kettle around past Gimble to Long Point, I swam probably the best I have ever done. It felt fluid; it felt right. I got

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Exactly six hours after entering the water, Anna emerged from the sea with an eight-mile swim under her belt – and an afterglow like no other. “It took me a few days before I really put into perspective what I had achieved,” she muses. “It’s not huge in the scheme of challenge swims, but for me personally, to be the first person to swim around Tresco was the pinnacle. I wanted that crown for many reasons; because I’m over 60, because I’m a woman, because I’ve lived here for 40 years, because I had to overcome my fears, and yes – because I live with a chronic health condition. “It just showed me that it’s your mind that’s the limitation, not your body. The human spirit is really an incredible thing. I applaud that version of myself on that day.” “I no longer feel the need to take on any huge challenges – though never say never. I do have every intention of continuing sea swimming into my dotage, though,” she laughs. “I see it as an investment in my physical and mental health – plus I quite like the idea of being known as that crazy old lady who sea swims in any weather. Not to mention the afterglow.”

onto the boat at Long Point for some breakfast feeling I could conquer the world. The hard part – the bit that had haunted me – was done. The rest was easy; I was back on home turf; the silver sands and turquoise seas I knew so well.” At one point, swimming down Tresco’s east coast, Anna looked over at Steve in the safety boat, flask in one hand, sandwich in the other. “I knew at that moment I was going to be OK; if Steve wasn’t worried, neither was I,” she recalls. That’s not to say the rest of the swim wasn’t a challenge. Anna still had to contend with racing currents through Carn Near Neck, not to mention the sheer scale of the eight-mile challenge – a far cry from her regular swim along a beach and back. As Anna pushed up Tresco’s west coast, the constant barrage of the ebbing tide started to take its toll. Nevertheless, her grit and determination kept her going. “I had support from Steve, my friend Fiona, my children Sasha and Jamie; what more did I need? At one point, Fiona and her sister were cheering me on from ankle-deep on the end of Carn Near Quay, Steve was urging me on from the boat, and there was me swimming through the middle. I literally felt surrounded by love and support.” As Anna followed the sweeping curve of Farm Beach and New Grimsby Harbour, she saw a small group on the sea wall in front of the Gallery ready to wrap her in towels and blankets and send her off to a warm shower and cosy bed with enough food for a small army.

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Tresco Island swim retreats Following our sell-out first retreats in 2021, join Triscape and discover cold water swimming for yourself on the Tresco swim retreats in October 2022 Tresco.co.uk/swim-retreat Read more about Anna’s sea swimming – including her round Tresco challenge – at annasislandstyle.com

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Flying high The ultimate way to travel to Tresco

A visit to Tresco is a joy, somewhere that makes it easy to forget about the outside world and all the challenges and stresses that come with it. First time visitor, Claudia Robinson, discovers how arriving by helicopter makes the experience even better... Until you’ve been there yourself, it’s quite impossible to explain how special this little gem of an island is. From the moment you step onto Tresco until the second you leave, it’s magical. So anything that helps you spend more time there is fine by me, and flying by helicopter does just that. The journey is simple from start to finish with Penzance Helicopters. There’s ample parking at the Heliport in Penzance, conveniently located right next to the A30. For those arriving by train there is a handy shuttle

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bus from the station just a mile away. The check-in service is smooth and hassle-free. You show your ID, hand over your bags (there’s a generous 20kg allowance per person), and head to the bright and airy lounge, overlooking the helipad. It really is as quick and simple as that. You almost feel like you’re waiting to hop on a bus, it’s so straightforward - except for that little fluttering of anticipation and excitement in your stomach about what’s to come! Those feelings are quickly magnified tenfold when our helicopter comes in to land, just metres from the terminal windows, giving us the perfect view of our chariot. It’s not long before we’re being guided outside to board the state-of-theart 12-seater AW139 helicopter. Once we are all safely buckled in and the doors closed, we’re taking off

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before we know it. None of the hanging around waiting for your turn on the runway with this exclusive form of travel. Within seconds we are taking in the perfect view of the breathtaking St Michael’s Mount before soaring over the Land’s End peninsula and heading out towards the glittering dark blue waters at Sennen. The anticipation I felt before we left Penzance has been replaced with feelings of exhilaration, fortune and awe. The ride is smooth and the large cabin windows enable all the passengers to enjoy the views, camera phones at the ready, as we look down at tiny sailing boats and larger ships going about their business, the waves swelling and occasionally crashing onto rocks, and onto the glimmering horizon ahead. I spend much of my time looking at the water, hoping to see the fin of a dolphin or whale, but to no avail. It is only a few minutes before we can see the Isles of Scilly directly ahead of us. They soon become larger and I now understand why Scilly is so often

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likened to the Caribbean, with its clear blue waters and sandy white beaches. Having never before visited Tresco I begin to try and guess which island it is, as I continue to be in awe of the most incredible bird’s eye views. Our skilled pilot skirts us around the coast and I soon realise I’m now looking down upon Tresco, as we are treated to the most spectacular views of Appletree Bay, the Abbey Garden and the stunning 19th Century Abbey, before we gently touch down on the island that will be our home for the next few days. The flight only takes 15 minutes, and a part of me wishes it could have lasted a few minutes longer to take in more of the stunning views - perhaps we could sweet-talk our pilot into a few circuits of the islands on our return journey? Within minutes everyone has left the helicopter and we’re guided past Tresco Heliport where our bags are already waiting for us. We climb aboard the electric shuttle, greeted with a friendly welcome by the driver and set off to be delivered to the door of our accommodation, again within minutes. Less than an hour after we left Penzance, we are sitting outside The New Inn, enjoying a glass of something cold and soaking up the last rays of the day’s sunshine, reflecting on how flying by helicopter really is the ultimate way in which to travel to this glorious island. And as I hear the whirring of another helicopter heading towards the island, bringing more holiday makers to this idyllic destination, the fluttering of excitement in my stomach returns, and I’m already looking forward to the journey home. Penzance Helicopters runs a regular year-round service between Penzance, Tresco and St. Mary’s, with single fares starting from £129.50 per adult and £108.50 per child (2-11).

For more information, visit: penzancehelicopters.co.uk

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Island news INVESTING IN ISLAND HOMES

LEVELLING UP OUR LINKS Sea links to the Isles of Scilly are to be “Levelled Up” with £48.4m of government funding secured by The Council of the Isles of Scilly in the autumn budget. The funding will enable the replacement of the islands’ passenger ferry, cargo ship and inter-island freight launch and improvements to the harbours at St Mary’s and Tresco. The new Scillonian IV passenger ferry will combine cutting-edge design with hybrid propulsion technology, offering a 20% reduction in journey time and improved comfort thanks to anti-roll fins. On Tresco, the widening of New Grimsby Quay and construction of a slipway will improve accessibility for all visitors while improving safety by separating freight and passenger movements. The improvements will be completed and new vessels in operation by spring 2024

This winter, we are investing in eight new, high-quality staff properties behind Palace Row, overlooking New Grimsby Harbour. The new one and two-bedroom homes will replace and supplement the old Blockhouse Cottages, giving our teams lovely places to live so we can attract the very best people to make your holiday.

THE COMMODORE’S SWANSONG CRUISE After lockdowns and periods of island isolation, we were delighted to welcome a flotilla of vessels from the Royal Yacht Squadron amid calm seas and wall-to-wall sunshine during the summer. The Dorrien-Smith family has a long-established connection with the Squadron. Robert and Lucy Dorrien-Smith were delighted to host the group for a memorable evening in the Abbey Garden. The visit was a swansong cruise for outgoing Commodore Jamie Sheldon and was also attended by his replacement, Tresco regular The Hon Sir James Holman. On the morning of June 10, island children Isaac and Amos Featherstone were invited to join Sir Robin Knox-Johnston to fire a commemorative canon marking what would have been the 100th birthday of former Admiral to the Squadron, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh

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UNCOVERING FORGOTTEN FRUITS Father and son duo Steve and Jamie Parkes have been busy uncovering a former orchard behind Point House, rediscovered in recent months by Jilly Halliday. Jilly said: “My bees seemed very interested in an old overgrown area above our garden. When I went up there, I discovered all sorts of blossoms – there were wild cherry trees and damsons, Scilly Pearl apples and plums, all hidden away beneath tangles of weeds and undergrowth.” On talking to island natives like Daphne Jenkins and Eddie Birch, Jilly discovered this was not just a chance collection. “They all had very fond, roguish childhood memories of scampering away from what was then an orchard, being chased away for scrumping!” Jilly approached Jamie and Steve Parkes, who carefully and painstakingly cleared the ground to allow the fruit trees to start to thrive once again. “I’ve got a vision of a flourishing community orchard,” said Jilly. We sense rather than being shooed away; future scrumpers will be welcomed with open arms!

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A fond farewell

CHANGING THE GUARD AT BLOCKHOUSE As the Tresco Times goes to press, the last of the demolition work is being completed on the old Blockhouse Cottages. While iconic, these historic houses had sadly reached the end of the road as staff cottages, being damp, dark and difficult to heat. In their place, the new Blockhouse Cottage will feature five double ensuite bedrooms, a snug, large drawing room, kitchen and dining space and a separate studio annexe. Most importantly, the new property will significantly enhance the surrounding area, replacing the old pebbledash cottages with a building of similar scale and proportion but granite-faced and featuring high-quality local materials and craftsmanship. Blockhouse Cottage will be built over the next two winters, with completion in spring 2023 – the Tresco Times looks forward to seeing the project evolve and the “review stay” naturally required!

Image credit: Joe Pender

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE 2021 was a strange year in many ways. Still, even against the bizarre backdrop of the pandemic, islanders hardly expected a rare Egyptian vulture, humpback whales and a wandering walrus to come calling. The most famous visitor, Wally, initially received a warm welcome but soon got a little too comfortable as the walrus started hauling out on fishing boats, yachts and punts for his daily nap and causing significant damage. Hospitable and adaptable as ever, islanders and experts quickly constructed a dedicated pontoon for Wally’s sunbathing shenanigans. In early August, his Scilly sojourn ended, and he was last spotted heading home – via Ireland and Iceland.

This winter, Tresco bids a fond farewell to Isobel and Mike Nelhams. Isobel was born and bred on Tresco, while Mike arrived on Tresco in 1976 as a garden scholarship student – a programme he continues to spearhead to this day. A year or so later, the couple moved to the mainland, where Mike ran High Beeches Garden in Sussex and Isobel trained and qualified as a Psychiatric Nurse. When Mike played football for the hospital team, he would take the opportunity to visit Isobel at work – and had to be locked in the ward with her! The couple married in Tresco’s St Nicholas Church in 1981. In 1984, a call from Robert Dorrien-Smith lured the couple back to Tresco, where Mike took on the role of Curator of the Abbey Garden. Two daughters – Max and Kate – soon came along, meaning life was busy for the Nelhams family. As if there wasn’t enough to do, Isobel was quickly presented with the opportunity to take on the setup and running of the new Garden Visitor Centre. During their time on Tresco, Mike and Isobel have borne witness to – and been instrumental in – the setting up of Tresco Heliport, the recovery from the 1990 hurricane, numerous Royal visits, the building of national and international horticultural partnerships, the growth of the islands’ cruise ship market, the arrival of the red squirrels, and so much more. Both have been stalwarts of the island gig crews, with Isobel one of the first female rowers in the Czar. Mike was a keen fielder for Tresco Cricket Club and a founder member of ‘The OIKs’ – the Off-Island Kickers football team! Latterly, golf became Mike’s chosen sport, keeping fellow Islander Dean Whillis company on St Mary’s golf club every Saturday. In 2021, Mike even graciously allowed Dean to revel in a hole-in-one and an Albatross in a single game. Fortunately, Mike and Isobel are not going far – just the other side of the water to mainland Cornwall – to enjoy more time with their children and five grandchildren. They will surely visit Tresco often – Mike especially, as he continues his role as Garden Curator “at large” in an advisory and promotional capacity, flying the flag for Tresco. So not retiring at all, then! We wish Mike and Isobel a wonderful, happy and fulfilling retirement.

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Trevor John Washington 21 April 1940 – 21 January 2021 There are few people you meet in life who are truly exceptional, but Trevor John Washington was just such a man. Born in Kent in 1940, his entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen shone through from an early age. While at primary school, Trevor launched his first business, chopping up firewood and selling it door to door from a homemade trailer on his pushbike. This boy would go far. As a teenager at Gillingham Technical School, Trevor worked hard, preferring practical subjects including metalwork, woodwork and technical drawing, leading to a five-year apprenticeship with Kent Alloys as a patternmaker. His perfectionism, technical skill and eye for detail later won him status as a Master Patternmaker. At the age of 19, Trevor met Pauline, who was 16. Weekends were spent meeting up with friends and riding out to Camber Sands on motorbikes. There was a café used as a halfway stopping point, and the last person to arrive had to buy all the coffees. Trevor was always the leader of the pack! On his 21st birthday, he proposed to Pauline and they were to marry four years later, in 1965. Trevor would say later in life, he was immediately ‘passion struck’ when he met Pauline, and this passion lasted for 60 years of happiness together, with a special bond and closeness that never wavered. Trevor started his own patternmaking business in 1964 in a small lock-up garage in Chatham; the business eventually grew to employ 18 other patternmakers. Despite outward appearances, Trevor was a risk-taker, constantly looking at ways to make his business more successful without compromising his personal values of fairness, honesty and generosity. During this time, he became a proud father and readily took to life as a real family man. Weekends were spent with his family at country shows, car rallies and messing about in the garden with a vast array of pets, including dogs, ducks, geese, cats, chickens and even a goat. Apart from his family, Trevor’s other love in life was his collection of vintage cars, including a 1929 Singer Van, a Model T Ford, a Jaguar XJ40 and a Rolls Royce. Trevor’s passion for automobiles was combined with his commercial intellect when he opened a new business called Clare’s Spares specialising in vintage car parts. Trevor was an extremely altruistic man, always willing to help those people in need. As a member and President of Chatham Rotary Club, Trevor led a team of young men on a Rotary exchange trip across Turkey for six weeks. Trevor’s practical skills and technical prowess were brought to the fore when he built a Christmas float, enabling the club

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to raise thousands of pounds for charity. When you ask Trevor’s friends to describe him, invariably, the words fun, laughter and wicked sense of humour are prominent. Despite Trevor being a discreet and private man, he was also jovial and loved life. A silly joke would set him off giggling, quickly progressing to contagious laughter that would have the whole room in fits. People liked being around Trevor. He didn’t try to dominate the conversation, but when he spoke, people listened. He gave advice willingly and generously, and despite being a hugely talented craftsman and businessman, he never made you feel awkward. At the tender age of 45, Trevor sold his businesses and started working on specially commissioned projects, including restoring engines for vintage cars and sculpting a vast, intricate and magnificent gramophone horn. Nine years on, in 1994, Trevor and Pauline moved to Tresco and quickly became embedded in all aspects of island life. Trevor enjoyed meeting up with his friends for evenings of deceptively competitive table tennis, followed by cards and a pint or two in The New Inn. If things were a bit more raucous, Trevor would throw himself enthusiastically into the fray; his dancefloor moves to ‘You Can Keep Your Hat On’ have gone down in island history. Despite this idyllic and relaxing lifestyle, Trevor didn’t rest on his laurels and always kept himself busy. He led the fundraising and building of the Tresco community centre, then built himself a two-story workshop, to continue to surround himself with lathes, chisels and saws. But it wasn’t all work for Trevor. He liked nothing more than entertaining his seven grandchildren when they came to visit, messing about on the beach, fishing for mackerel, teaching his grandchildren new skills (like how to row) or making toys in the workshop. It is fair to say that Trevor lived a full and happy life. He was a craftsman, husband, family man, grandfather, businessman and entrepreneur. But above all else, he was a gentleman and a gentle man. He treated people fairly, honestly and with a generosity of spirit that was awe-inspiring. When life threw Trevor challenges, he didn’t let these over-whelm him. He dealt with adverse situations with a calmness and quiet resolve that inspired confidence amongst his family and friends. Trevor was deeply, deeply loved by his friends and family. He was held in such high esteem by so many people whose lives he had touched and enjoyed a measure of respect that showed how truly exceptional he was. He had a ready smile and jolly laugh that, put simply, made your day better.

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Meet the designer Emily Parsons “The views, the coastline, the gardens, the landmarks, it’s hard not to be inspired when living in a place like this,” says designer, reservationist and local resident, Emily Parsons

Emily Parsons and her partner Harvey packed up the contents of their home in Penzance and headed for Tresco. That was in 2016 and the couple have never looked back. “We both lived in Penzance our whole lives and we just decided we fancied a change,” Emily explains. “Neither of us had ever been before, but it’s quite common for people who live in Penzance never to have been to Scilly even though it’s only about 30 miles away. You always think it’s just the same as Cornwall, but it’s completely different,” she adds. For Emily, who works in the Tresco Island office, and Harvey, who worked at The Ruin before retraining to drive for Tresco Boats, the island is a breath of fresh air - a place to enjoy the slower pace of life. “I love it here. It’s such a nice, simple and peaceful way of life. We came here for a summer season and we’re still here five years later with no plans to leave any time soon. We completely fell in love with the place. It’s such a close-knit community, particularly among those of us who live here all year around. Everyone knows and looks out for each other - it’s like stepping back in time. And one thing guaranteed about living here is that you can always get a beach to yourself, even if it’s in the height of summer, ” Emily smiles. When Emily isn’t too busy helping visitors get the most out of their experience on Tresco, she can be found drawing beautiful sketches, designing or making bespoke jewellery. Her most recent project? The Island Designs clothing range for The Tresco Collection. “I’ve always done art, design and graphics. I did my degree in design at Goldsmiths University of London. I’ve dabbled in lots of different things since graduating, my spare time is filled with

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experimenting in different types of art and design. When I was approached to produce some designs for The Tresco Collection, it was an honour,” says Emily. As we delve into the design details, Emily excitedly explains her thought process behind her gorgeous creations: “When creating the designs, we wanted to keep it nice and simple, with illustrations and some beautiful colouring. For me, you can’t think about Tresco and not think about the gardens. The Abbey Garden is home to the Gaia Statue, which is something I’ve always loved and I thought it would make for a beautiful design to represent the subtropical splendour of the garden. For the second design, I wanted to go in the complete opposite direction and capture the rugged, natural beauty of the North end, which is why I went with an illustration of Cromwell’s Castle.” The result? Two beautiful designs capturing the essence of the island, spanning from one end to the other, showcasing some of Tresco’s mostloved and recognisable landmarks. “It’s lovely and a bit surreal to see people wearing the designs. Not just the clothes, but the jewellery I make too,” she says. Emily is renowned on the island for her one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces all made from eco silver and natural materials found locally. “I’ve always dabbled in jewellery making and when I came to Tresco I collected so much sea glass and sea pottery from beachcombing. I was trying to find a use for it, so I started making jewellery. I’m learning as I go, but the reception my pieces have had at Lucy-Tania and through my Instagram profile has been really heartening. “I make and sell my jewellery mainly in Lucy-Tania, which is the boutique here on the island. But I also have commissions and special requests too.

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I find that a lot of people find pieces of sea glass on the beaches here and they’ll come to me and ask if I can turn it into a piece of jewellery for them. One lady found pieces of sea glass many years ago and recently sent them over to me and asked If I could make them into something for her daughters, which was really lovely. I adore making bespoke items that people can keep forever,” she smiles.

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The Tresco Collection

Island-inspired designs. Organic, recycled materials. Laid-back coastal layering. A little piece of Tresco hanging in your wardrobe. The Tresco Collection features looks inspired by seas and skies, marrying practicality and style in an understated embodiment of island life T R E S C O. C O. U K | 2 7

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Browse & buy at our new online shop Tresco.co.uk/shop

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A beacon of light Looking over the white sands of Raven’s Porth sits one of Tresco’s newest properties, the stunning Lighthouse...

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When you think of luxurious getaways by the water, Lighthouse is exactly the image you would draw in your mind’s eye. This stunning home is everything you could possibly imagine when it comes to a waterfront property - it’s bright, airy and boasts some of the most breathtaking views on Tresco, as well as some spectacular interior design, thanks to Marina Dorrien Smith. Native islander and interior designer, Marina was appointed for the role of designing Tresco’s newest property. “My parents’ keen interest in modern British art and the collection of ceramics and glass artworks that decorate the Tresco cottages and restaurants initially ignited an appreciation and passion to learn more about the 20th century design period. I read art history at university and this academic grounding continuously influences my design concepts. I went on to complete an interior design diploma and was offered an internship with Tania Streeter and Amelia McNeil shortly after - I love their inviting, contemporary style and their skill at sourcing and mixing in interesting vintage pieces. I was working in my current job for a hospitality design studio in London when the opportunity to take on the

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Lighthouse property back on Tresco presented itself,” explains Marina. “After watching my parents both put so much work into the design of all the previous developments on Tresco, it was incredibly special to work alongside my father on this one.” Sitting right on the waterfront at Old Grimsby, just moments from the Ruin Beach Café, boat hire and Sea Garden pool, sits the stunning Lighthouse. The beachfront property sleeps 8-10 in four individuallydesigned ensuite bedrooms and a snug, with an additional two bunk beds cleverly concealed behind a bespoke folding screen designed by the architects Llewellyn Harker Lowe. All the bedrooms enjoy stunning sea or garden views. Downstairs, there’s a gorgeous but practical, open plan kitchen with a breakfast bar which leads into the dining room. Outside there is a variety of seating areas overlooking the landscaped garden to the rear and the beautiful bay to the front - perfect for enjoying breakfast sunrises and evening sunsets. “The design concept is centred around handmade craft and Cornish art. The hand woven seats of the dining chairs and bar-stools and the

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block printed fabrics for the drapery are some examples of hand-made finishes. Sourcing furniture and accessories made from recycled materials was also something I aimed to do wherever possible,” explains Marina. The airy and light living space continues with a hallway, utility and shower room leading to a snug - perfect for the kids to play, watch television or for additional sleeping space. Passionate about supporting independent businesses and local suppliers, Marina explains: “I carefully sourced all the furtniture and accessories for the cottage, focusing on finding reclaimed timber pieces and trying to use suppliers with sustainable credentials. I found the vintage rugs in Penzance and tried to keep all the suppliers as local as possible. I enjoyed finding artists to make some accessories for the house too, such as Miranda Berrow who made the ceramic table lamps in bespoke colours for the bedside tables. The colour scheme is fresh and light to celebrate the brilliant hues in the artworks on the ground floor. “One of the most distinctive features of the Tresco holiday cottages is the curated collection of original artworks that are carefully selected with the help of Gallery Tresco and their collaborations with artists each year. The selection of artwork, often depicting the landscapes of the Isles of Scilly, is something that gives the cottage a distinctive sense of place. I wanted to celebrate artists and makers in the design who inspired me

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throughout my time growing up on Tresco, alongside artists I found more recently. The collection of artworks in the cottage by John Miller, Hugo Grenville and John Dyer represent my parents’ collection and influence. Ed Burkes, a contemporary artist who worked on Tresco recently has become a firm favourite of mine. I was lucky enough to buy some of his gouache works from a series inspired by the figureheads of Valhalla and these are also in Lighthouse,” she continues. Upstairs, the master bedroom enjoys breathtaking views overlooking the harbour. The vaulted ceiling gives a wonderful sense of space and makes the most of the natural light. The second and third bedrooms also enjoy stunning sea views. Bedroom four, while facing the rear of the property, enjoys views of the garden across to the open countryside beyond.

“I wanted to celebrate artists and makers in the design who inspired me throughout my time growing up on Tresco”

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“The house has an easterly aspect, so it enjoys the sunrise over the Eastern Isles and Raven’s Porth beach from two of the bedroom balconies,” she says. Outside, the front garden boasts a paved seating area with direct access from the kitchen for barbeques and outdoor dining, as well as a wooden decking area, all overlooking the ocean just yards away. While the lawned and landscaped rear garden is perfect for cosy summer evenings, as Marina explains: “There’s a fabulous firepit with a stunning mosaic made of shells and sea glass which my mother and my brother’s girlfriend worked on throughout the most recent lockdown. I envy anyone who gets to spend evenings there,” says Marina. “This was my first project and the whole learning process of the design and construction was equally novel and exciting and sometimes overwhelming. It was incredibly satisfying to finally install all the furniture, hang the artwork and to see the house be enjoyed by guests when lockdown lifted in the summer. My favourite part of the process is always creating the design concept and sourcing inspiration at the beginning and then seeing how this is translated in the finished result.” Marina’s tasteful designs, paired with the cottage’s idyllic views and prime location make for the perfect waterside getaway on Tresco.

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For more information and rental availability, visit: tresco.co.uk/staying/lighthouse-cottage

Preferential terms and tasting opportunities available for Tresco patrons by contacting: Brian.Copeland@louisxiii-cognac.com

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Take a tour

Cobblers came back into Estate ownership in 2020, so our island trades spent last winter fully refurbishing the property, all under the watchful eye of Tania Streeter. Now, this three-bedroom property offers a waterfront haven for up to six people in one of Tresco’s finest locations overlooking the harbour at New Grimsby

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“Cobblers was a hugely rewarding project to work on – we completely remodelled the kitchen and living space downstairs, making it a bright and airy space where the beauty outdoors flows straight in. We’ve used very organic materials throughout to really give the cottage a sense of place. “Cobblers is a really good indication of where I want to take cottage interiors across the island over the next few years as we embark on the biggest refurbishment of Tresco cottages in our history.” Tania Streeter, interior designer.

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MOTOR BOATS //SAILING BOATS //KAYAKS SUPS //PEDAL BOARDS Available to hire by the hour, day or week We are a local, island family and have been hiring from Bryher for over 50 years. We will deliver to your nearest beach and use our wealth of knowledge to ensure you have the best day out.

t: 07979 393 206 / e: book@hut62.co.uk hut62.co.uk

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A conversation with a specialist Insurance Broker provides peace of mind and ensures you receive cover tailored to your needs

WPS hallam Insurance Brokers We act for a wide range of High Net Worth and high profile figures and are well placed to provide insurance solutions which suit your lifestyle needs. Our specialist areas of expertise include: • High Net Worth Household • Holiday Homes (UK and Overseas) • Fine Art Collections • Valuables including Antiques, Jewellery and Literary collections • High Net Worth Motor (including classic cars)

We work with a select panel of leading insurers who have developed knowledge and expertise in the High Net Worth arena. They work with us to tailor the insurance package to meet your needs. • Pricing is competitive. • Confidentiality is critical. • Personal service is key.

Lauren King, Senior Account Executive T 0207 977 7860 M 07563 026 358 E lauren.king@jameshallam.co.uk WPS Hallam is a trading name of James Hallam Limited who are Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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ADVE RTO R IAL

Architectural excellence from the ground up Cornwall Planning Group is a planning-lead architectural firm with headquarters based in Hayle, Cornwall. The company prides themselves on holding a clear focus, drive and passion for producing exquisite builds across the country. Since 2014, the group have built their reputation as a firm that delivers ambitious yet practical designs of the highest standard. Established by experienced managing director Chris Menear, the company was instilled with a set of core beliefs that inform all of their work at every stage. By focusing on sustainability, efficiency, value, effectiveness, drive and diligence, Cornwall Planning Group have been able to successfully collaborate with clients across a variety of sectors, both in-county and across the greater South West. Throughout the years, they have established an extensive range of executive clients such as Housing 4 0 | T R E S C O. C O. U K

Developers, Private Builders Commercial Retailers and even the National Trust, who have all been exceptionally happy with the attention to detail and passion that was poured into the project. Ultimately, the group’s process is informed by their rich history, their staff and their clients. They take great pride in providing a comprehensive service from start to finish - initial planning, to appraisals, master planning, administration, applications, all the way to final delivery. It’s this bespoke service and ambition to excel in every project they take on that has resulted in the highly esteemed practice they run today. At Cornwall Planning Group, people are at the heart of everything they do. Working closely with their clients throughout every stage of the process is essential in providing a service tailored to their individual needs.

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ADVERTO R IAL If you would like to talk about your project and get the ball rolling on an innovative project, get in touch and experience the exceptional service of Cornwall Planning Group for yourself.

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“We have recommended Cornwall Planning Group to our clients due to the wealth of knowledge, proficiency and ability to overcome any planning complications. We have dealt with the company since 2015 which has been built on superb foundations allowing them to accomplish the clients planning and architectural desires” Mr D Marshall of Marshalls Estate Agents, Penzance For over eight years, the group have been helping clients realise their property dreams, building excellence from the ground up through a passion and dedication to innovation. Rewarding builds are what Cornwall Planning Group do best and their impressive portfolio has transformed both the lives of clients as well as the locations they have worked in.

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“I have used Chris Menear and his team at The Cornwall Planning Group, both professionally and personally. Their professionalism, knowledge and ability to problem solve is unrivalled. I don’t hesitate to recommend them to my clients”. Mr C Clifford of Savills, Cornwall

Cornwall Planning Group’s portfolio is brimming with stunning examples, from rustic Cornish countryside dwellings with cosy fireplaces and amazing wooden interiors to modern cottages with uber-stylish minimalist interiors and stunning balcony views, whatever it is you’re looking for, the team of experts here are on hand to deliver.

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Tresco at Christmas There’s more to Tresco than its crystal clear waters, tropical climes and golden beaches. Let wanderlust whisk you away for a magical Christmas on the island... When we recall Christmas past, it’s the time spent laughing with loved ones, hanging decorations upon the tree with siblings and baking festive treats that bring back the fondest memories. If we ask ourselves the true meaning of Christmas, our minds will fill with the people we love, family traditions, special moments, joy and laughter - and that’s exactly what a Tresco Christmas is all about. There’s nothing quite like a Tresco Christmas. There’s a real sense of community on the island all year round, but like many places, it’s extra special at Christmas time. Escape the big city lights and busy high

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street stores and retreat to Tresco for the most magical Christmas of them all. Think the peaceful pace of island life mixed with the festive warmth of community celebration, a time filled with family, food and feel-good experiences. Christmas on Tresco is about time to be together, and with cottages sleeping from two to ten people, it’s the perfect opportunity to gather your loved ones together for the holiday season. When it comes to laying your head, there’s much to choose from here. Cosy down in a cottage, settle into a luxurious Sea Garden apartment overlooking the ocean or, from Christmas 2022, join the festivities at the heart of an

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island Christmas at The New Inn. Whichever retreat you choose, you can expect a sprinkling of festive cheer, with a locally-sourced, island-inspired Christmas hamper and we’ll even light the log burner ready for your arrival. All you need to do is settle in for a magical island Christmas. Your festive stay on Tresco will feel like your home away from home. You’ll enjoy the seasonal spirit while cosied up in your cottage thanks to a little thoughtful interior sparkle. You’ll find your cottage decorated with fresh green Tresco-gathered foliage, and a twinkling tree decorated with sustainably sourced ornaments, some of which are made by local crafters. You can even add to the decorations yourself, whether that be gorgeous island foliage you’ve collected or treasured family keepsakes you’ve brought along with you. The island may be a little quieter than the mainland, but the festivities are still in full swing. From island traditions and festive affairs to cosy cottages and Christmas decor, there’s much to see and do here. Your Christmas experience starts from the minute you step on to the island, right the way through to New Year’s Day. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Tresco as the island winds down for winter. Wake up each morning to stunning sea views before cooking up a hearty breakfast for the whole family. Book yourself in for an indulgent

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“Your Christmas experience starts from the minute you step on to the island, right the way through to New Year’s Day”

ila treatment at the Island Spa or explore the always colourful Abbey Garden. Spend some time pursuing the Tresco Christmas Market packed with islander creations and gorgeous must-haves - perfect for last minute gift shopping. Or truly relax into your magical island Christmas with a candlelit yoga session in the Flying Boat Studio. Evenings can be spent with a hot chocolate in hand (or mulled wine for the growns ups!) singing Christmas carols on Raven’s Porth before tucking into delicious mince pies and toasted panettone. It’s the perfect festive affair to give you that warm fuzzy feeling like something straight out of your favourite Christmas film. Be whisked away by the enchanting lights hanging upon some of our outdoor spaces to make the island feel

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extra special. Or perhaps a family night in is what you’re looking for? Cosy up in your comfies, snuggle in by the fire, play a board game or two and dance around to Christmas classics. Christmas Eve on the island is welcomed with a candlelit carol service in St Nicholas’ Church, followed by a Christmas Day service on the big day. Christmas morning is yours to do with as you wish. Whether you’re looking to embrace the slower pace of life or dive head first into yuletide happenings, the choice is yours. Join local islanders and fellow guests for pre-lunch drinks - it’s a lovely opportunity to gather with the community and wish each other a merry Christmas before tucking into a traditional Christmas Day lunch with all of the trimmings.

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Food aside, Christmas day can be filled however you desire. Whether it’s a post-lunch stroll, a mid-day ocean swim or a spot of relaxation, there’s plenty to keep you as busy or as relaxed as you like. Christmas can be a busy time, but on Tresco, there’s just time to be. When Boxing Day rolls around, Tresco is the perfect place to blow away the cobwebs. From coastal walks to sea dips, there’s plenty going on to refresh your mind, body and soul. Come New Year’s Eve, the island is ready to celebrate. Islanders and visitors alike gather together to ring in the New Year - Tresco style. A joyous occasion for all to enjoy. Escape the hustle and bustle of the mainland and discover a magical traditional island Christmas.

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Island life through your lens Capture the beautiful island of Tresco like you’ve never seen it before with a guided photography workshop with award-winning photographer Ross Hoddinott Ross has been obsessed with wildlife photography for almost as long as he’s been able to hold a camera. Winning BBC Countryfile’s inaugural photo competition, in the Junior Flora and Fauna category, when he was just 11 years old, Ross knew photography was going to be a passion he’d hold dear to his heart for the rest of his life. Ross went on to win Young Wildlife Photographer of the year at 17 and essentially turned professional when he was 18, pursuing a career in outdoor photography that would take him around the world. Fast forward a couple of decades and Ross is still doing what he loves and still winning awards as one of the best outdoor photographers in the business! Luckily for us, Ross just loves capturing the beauty of Tresco and he’s been taking would-be photographers out and about to explore the island whilst enjoying bespoke tuition on how to capture the perfect shot. “I’ve run photography workshops for about 15 years now, but the Tresco workshop is quite different in the sense that you get to all the different

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“Obviously photography is the priority, but it’s also a great opportunity to explore every part of the island”

viewpoints by walking or boat, rather than driving,” Ross explains. “There’s something very refreshing about walking everywhere. I think it promotes a bit more spontaneity from my groups in the sense that we can react to conditions and stop to take photos in different areas.” Ross’ workshops aren’t all about learning how to get that National Geographic shot; a lot of his clients come simply for the chance to explore hidden places that they might miss if they went out exploring alone.

“It’s quite a unique experience going out there with an organised workshop group. Obviously photography is the priority, but it’s also a great opportunity for people to explore every part of the island. “The workshop experience is a holiday too, so it’s a chance for people to go somewhere new, explore, enjoy the island, and ultimately enjoy the atmosphere! That’s why I make sure the workshops are a laid back experience - the island encourages that relaxed way of doing things. I think as soon as you arrive on Tresco you kind of feel that laid back vibe.”

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So, what does an average workshop day out with Ross look like? The truth is, no one workshop is ever the same! Ross has to go with the flow of the island weather and take challenges as they come. “Photographers are always happy to react to the conditions and whatever’s forecast, but I do try to employ some sort of structure depending on the weather,” Ross says. “We tend to walk to our viewpoint in semi-darkness, trying to get there half an hour before sunrise. Then we shoot that early morning light, head back for breakfast, enjoy a little bit of downtime, perhaps even run a tutorial on processing or some feedback on images, and then we go out again, have some lunch and shoot until evening light. So, it’s quite a busy kind of format, but it doesn’t feel that way - it’s quite fluid and relaxed in many respects.” The best part about Ross’ workshops is that they’re open to people of any skill level. You don’t need to have any experience behind the camera at all, Ross will be there to guide you every step of the way. “It really doesn’t matter how experienced clients are, I do all of my tuition individually within the workshop groups,” Ross says. “I tailor my advice person to person, so sometimes you get people that have been taking pictures for a few weeks and sometimes you get people that are semi-professional, but all of the tuition is bespoke regardless. What matters is that everyone gets to explore the island and capture a collection of images they can be truly proud of.”

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For booking enquiries visit tresco.co.uk and to see more of Ross’ work visit rosshoddinott.co.uk

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“It really doesn’t matter how experienced clients are” T R E S C O. C O. U K | 4 9

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Anchored in heritage, indomitable in spirit

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With a family history on the Isles of Scilly spanning 330 years, the islands first and only rum distillery is looking back to look forward as they serve up a range of delicately balanced premium rums and vodkas with a clean, rounded finish and a tang of the sea Andrew Walder reveals all about the family distillery and how their latest rum is inspired by a famous island hero and Tresco’s very special Scillonian honey bees... All SC Dogs spirits are fermented, distilled, aged and bottled on Andrew’s family farm on St. Martin’s using pure Scillonian water and local ingredients grown on the land his family has worked for over 330 years. Born and bred on the islands, Andrew left to study photography at university prior to a fifteen-year career in the Merchant Navy that enabled him to travel the world. The draw of Scilly lured him back and in 2018, he set about turning his long-term dream of establishing a distillery, into a reality. “I had been thinking about it for a long time. It was back in 2012 when the ship I was on (the Polar Research Vessel RRS Ernest Shackleton) broke down. One of her engines blew up while we were on charter off Aberdeen, so we had to wait for a new engine to be shipped from Japan. The crew were stuck aboard with nowhere to go and nothing to do so the charter offered to take us on a distillery tour and I jumped at the chance. We travelled up to Pitlochry and had a look round what is supposedly the smallest distillery in Scotland. That trip sparked my imagination!” For Andrew and his family it’s been a journey from that moment on and everything came together three years ago. Much thought went into what spirit they wanted to produce, as Andrew explains: “We toyed with the idea of producing gin originally. Ideas were tossed about but we soon learnt that Westward Farm on St. Agnes had begun producing their own gin. It made sense to complement their offering rather than compete with their products, which are truly excellent. A nice aspect of island life on Scilly is the community spirit. People endeavour not to replicate others’ ideas and offerings. “From my perspective, rum is synonymous with the sea, my experiences as a merchant Naval Officer and others who make a living from the sea. We chose SC Dogs for our name as ‘sea dogs’ is synonymous with the sea and ‘SC’ is the fishing boat prefix for the Isles of Scilly, which is visible on all commercial fishing vessels from the islands. ‘SC’ also happens to be my father’s initials, but that’s more of a happy coincidence!” Each SC Dogs product is named after a character who encapsulates the ‘Spirit of the Isles of Scilly’, and all the artwork used on their products has been commissioned from local artists and illustrators.

The first product to come out of SC Dogs distillery was The Spirit of John Nance, a 40% white rum which contains nothing other than molasses, yeast and water. Andrew explains: “From our perspective, producing a spirit that stands up on its own, in a glass with nothing else added to it is the requirement for a product being released. It’s got to have the ability to be drunk as a neat spirit with unadulterated joy.” The newest spirit to join the SC Dogs stable is The Spirit of Bruce Christopher, a delicious honey spiced rum, lovingly named after a wellknown local sea dog and delicately flavoured with honey produced by Tresco’s Scillonian bees. Andrew picks up the story: “I used to work for Tresco Boats so really wanted to produce a Tresco rum, and there seemed to be a real appetite for the idea when I discussed it with people on the island.” Andrew was already starting to think about producing a spiced rum, but it was a conversation with Alasdair Moore that really got the creative juices flowing. “We were looking for a botanical that would lend itself to rum and was synonymous with Tresco. We have a huge choice to pick from in

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Bruce Christopher the Abbey Garden, but Alasdair helped us realise that bees are nature’s very own distiller.” With the help of the bees, a cross-section of the incredible array of plants from the Abbey Garden could be distilled into the rum. Alasdair had originally been taught beekeeping by Bruce Christopher, and together they created the beekeeping in the Abbey Garden as it is now. “Given this history, and the fact the flavours and sweetness of the honey work so well with rum, it was a no brainer,” says Andrew. Honey in Scilly and St Martin’s is incredible, but what sets Tresco honey apart is the sheer variety of plants the bees are foraging on - the bees are distilling a whole globe’s worth of flavours into their honey here. “When we add this into the honey spiced rum, what’s happening is that we’re releasing a set of flavours that is unobtainable anywhere else in the world. It has this diverse botanical property that is unique to our bees. The honey has amazing sweetness and a unique flavour profile. I distinctly remember trying shop-bought honey and there was such a stark difference in taste, it was nowhere near the same level as Tresco honey.” Andrew is building an exciting and unique collection of rums and vodka at SC Dogs distillery but still produces small batches to ensure quality remains at the highest level. He’s always thinking about the next product to create but perfection is his priority so nothing is rushed. “I like making things. I like creating things from scratch. I enjoy the process. You’re starting off with a product that is so minuscule and turning it into a bottle of rum. It’s the combination of science and creativity that really intrigues me. I love the experimental side of the process. It also means I get to sample rum and I’m not complaining about that!”

Each spirit crafted by SC Dogs is dedicated to the history of one of our own sea dogs. There was no question whose story and face should grace the bottle of our Tresco spirit – Bruce Christopher. The third generation of the Christopher family to work Boro Farm on Tresco, Bruce had a huge character, surpassed only by his big heart. He was a kind, sociable, hard-working, fun and caring man, the very best of Tresco. His mastery of land and sea was unmatched. Glance out to sea, and you might see Bruce hauling in his pots, skitting across the waves on a windsurfer, leaning on the paddle to drive forward his beloved gig Czar, or urging a young crew on from the coxswain’s seat. On land, Bruce and his wife Maggie poured their heart and soul into making Boro Farm a jewel in the island’s crown. Yet, despite this exhausting work, Bruce always made time for others. He could often be found checking in on older islanders, volunteering with the Coastguard team, spending time with his family, enjoying a hand of euchre and a rum and black in The New Inn, or caring for his bees. Whether fishing off the north end, tending his flowers and cattle, rowing in the Czar or out on a coastguard shout, islanders knew a man as warm as the honey of the bees he kept. It’s this gentle spirit of sea and land that artist Imogen Bone has so beautifully captured in her portrait of Bruce, and which is reflected in the honey spiced rum that bears his name.

For more information, visit: tresco.co.uk/rum

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A new look for the New Inn The New Inn is at the very heart of the island, loved by locals and visitors alike. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to pop in for a pint or linger a little longer for an island staycation... As The Tresco Times went to press, the New Inn bedrooms and Pavilion dining space were undergoing a complete transformation, inspired by our island inn’s historic and much-loved heart. The New Inn was, at one time, one of 13 hostelries on the island; a few years ago, as the sole survivor, its tongue-in-cheek slogan became ‘the best inn on Tresco!’ This year, an ambitious yet sensitive makeover will secure the inn’s position as the island’s favourite, under the watchful eye of our in-house interior designer, Tania Streeter. Tania says: “I’m just so excited about this opportunity. The New Inn is such an important part of the island, so it really deserves the time, effort

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and money we’re putting into it this winter. It’s also a huge responsibility, as I know just how much the pub means to everybody. From the time I’ve spent at the pub personally, I know how much it means to everyone! “That’s why I’ve taken the heart of the pub as a sort of thread to weave throughout. There will be a strong sense of traditional materials and craftsmanship; I want to take the timeless feel of the Driftwood Bar and make that flow throughout the rest of the inn. “That really starts with the Pavilion, which will feel very much like part of the pub – nostalgic, but with a modern twist. It’s probably the area I’m most excited about. “We’re replacing everything in the Pavilion, from new zinc-topped

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and reclaimed pub tables to new flooring. Actually, it’s the flooring I’m probably most interested in,” laughs Tania. “We’re putting in a new oak floor which will really compliment the panelling and upright beams in the heart of the pub, which was all salvaged from the beaches of the island. Those stories and elements make The New Inn what it is, and I want the changes we make to respect and reflect the rich history of this unique building. For many islanders and visitors, it’s the prospect of a cosy log-burning stove right at the heart of the Pavilion that’s most eagerly awaited. “So many people have told me the one thing The New Inn is missing is a log burner,” says Tania. “So that’s one thing we built into the plans from the start. The New Inn is the heart of the island all year, so we’ve given it a cosy new focal point – perfect for warming your toes, pint in hand after a blustery winter walk.”

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The Pavilion will be given a completely new look and feel that links it perfectly with the Driftwood Bar – and its location. Calming Farrow & Ball ‘Lichen’ walls nod to the inn’s location, right next to New Grimsby harbour where, as Tania says, algae grows on everything. “Lucy Dorrien-Smith and I have spent hours trawling through the archives at the Abbey and found some really incredible Tresco artefacts to decorate the walls. We’ve found such a wealth of hidden treasures we’ve had to be quite selective to ensure we leave a few patches for that lovely colour to shine through!” The Pavilion will be the perfect cosy dining experience for a special evening out, blending beautifully with the lower area of the main bar, while the heart of the pub retains its sense of tradition and history. Outside, a new terrace will sit beautifully alongside the existing beer garden – ideal for long and lazy summer evenings beneath the stars.

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“Above all, we want The New Inn to be a perfect base from which to explore Tresco and the wider islands – somewhere to relax and soak up what the islands are all about.”

On the menu, pub favourites such as our much-loved New Inn Burger and traditional Fish & Chips will be joined by the likes of a succulent Cornish Chateaubriand, half lobster with chilli and herb butter or freshlycaught whole local mackerel. In the summer months, some of these dishes will be cooked over coals on our new outdoor grill, really bringing to life the flavours and aromas of the locally-sourced produce. Indeed, for those in need of refreshment, The New Inn will be the goto place on Tresco at any time of day. From a nourishing breakfast to kick-start the day to indulgent morning cakes and pastries, long lunches, and afternoon bar bites to a hearty supper, The New Inn will make the perfect pit-stop, no matter the time of day. For those staying a little longer, the bedrooms and bathrooms are also undergoing a complete renovation – a blend of nostalgia and modern comfort inspired by the heart of the inn. “Above all, we want The New Inn to be a perfect base from which to explore Tresco and the wider islands – somewhere to relax and soak up what the islands are all about.” This renovation isn’t just a case of refreshing the rooms with a lick of paint. As we write, the bedrooms are being completely gutted. When the six-month project is complete, guests will notice significant improvements to everything from bathrooms to beds, televisions to tea trays and the all-important plumbing and electrics. “I’ve worked with some amazing suppliers to really make the rooms feel special,” says Tania. “My own team are handmaking the wooden bed frames which will be topped with sumptuous Hypnos mattresses made in Buckinghamshire. The bedside tables are handmade in Sussex and London by Alfred Newall - a Brother of The Art Workers’ Guild.

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“The rooms will be lined by a turquoise tongue and groove panelling beautifully accented by hues of plumb and bracken. Fermoie Fabrics, based in Wiltshire, have very kindly produced a special colourway of their new Carskiey Collection for our blinds and curtains. We’re using their brilliant flag print on the beds too. It will look really special.” Tania’s thought process is all about nostalgia with a modern twist. Nowhere is this balance of form and function more evident than in the newly-designed bedrooms. “Each bedroom will have a large Smart TV – perfect for those evenings where you just don’t want to go anywhere – as well as a Roberts Radio if that’s more your thing. Beside the bed will be some lovely adjustable lamps, alongside USB chargers, so no more fiddling around behind the bedside table to plug your phone in,” she laughs. The rooms will all feature spacious walk-in showers with plentiful hot, fast-flowing water. The two finest rooms on the ground floor, larger and boasting their own terrace, will also feature baths. One of them – a stunning boat-shaped tub sitting on slate flooring – adds a real touch of luxury. This substantial project is just the beginning for Tania, who is also overseeing the refreshing of Tresco’s cottages over the coming years. “It’s definitely in at the deep end,” she laughs. “The New Inn is such an important and much-loved part of the island, and I know I have to get it right. “Fortunately, I’m no stranger to Tresco. By drawing on my own experiences of this beautiful island over the years – as well as listening to the locals and guests that love it so – I’m confident we’ll create the next great chapter in the history of the best inn on Tresco!

Homewares and fabric designs inspired by the Isles of Scilly. Made in the UK.

Scillonian-caught lobster, crab & fish delivered to Tresco daily ready to eat Also available: dressed & picked crab, potted crab & quiche Suppliers to Tresco & Bryher for over 50 years www.islandfish.co.uk Tel: 01720 423880 Email: contactus@islandfish.co.uk

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Island treasures Pack up delicious treats from The Flying Boat and head to your favourite beach for the ultimate luxury picnic The Flying Boat Café and Deli is the perfect place to stop for a while, take in the epic views of New Grimsby harbour and indulge in the best coffee, light bites and refreshing drinks. But, if you want to head out on your own adventure and need to take nourishment with you for the day, the deli boasts a wide selection of locally sourced food and drink, from the best possible suppliers. So, load your picnic hamper with flavoursome pastries and delicious sandwiches made with freshly baked bread. Stock up on decadent sweet treats including home-baked cakes and fill your cool bag with cold pressed juices, organic wine and Cornish cider. Then set off to find a secluded bay where you can lay out your picnic blanket on the white sands, kick off your shoes and enjoy it all while you marvel at the shimmering views.

To find out more visit tresco.co.uk/eating/flying-boat

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Indulge on the island From fire feast nights to garden suppers and G&T evenings, there are plenty of opportunities to dine on Tresco, al fresco, with pop-up food events taking place throughout the seasons Imagine tucking into flame-grilled Bryher lobster, feasting on Cornish mackerel or sampling locally-made spirits whilst enjoying some of Tresco’s magnificent beach views and beautiful gardens. That’s what the island’s impromptu pop-up events are all about - celebrating local produce and indulging in some of the best food and drink our eateries have to offer

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Gather together your nearest and dearest for an Abbey Garden G&T Night where you can explore the magnificent botanical gardens, after hours, and learn more from our horticultural experts about this very special, unique place. Discover the legends and secrets of Valhalla, find out about our Scillonian bees, and perhaps take away a cutting or two, so you can grow a little piece of Tresco at home. After your behind-the-scenes tour you’ll be able to sample some spectacular Abbey Garden Gins, created by Westward Farm on St. Agnes, accompanied by delectable canapés.

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If you’d prefer to indulge in something more substantial, why not try a Fire Feast Night? As the sun begins to set, grab a drink from the bar at the Abbey Garden and settle down in the Garden Courtyard for delicious, flame-grilled Bryher lobster followed by a seasonal dessert. Or if you’d rather soak up beach views and breathe in fresh sea air as the sun sets on another glorious day on the island, head to Appletree Bay for Mackerel on the Beach. Sip on your welcome drink as you listen to the waves gently lapping against the shoreline, before digging into some perfectly cooked fish and strolling on the still-warm sand.

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With exciting plans for impromptu food pop-ups to take place at some of Tresco’s most iconic spots throughout 2022, these memory-making events are not to be missed.

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01179 466 905

To find out more about events taking place while you’re on the island visit tresco.co.uk/events

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I SL A ND E ATS

The Ruin pizza Create the perfect pizza at home Recipe - makes approximately five pizzas

Every pizza aficionado has their own secret tricks and favourite methods for creating the perfect, mouthwatering, crispy-based Italian treat. However, you can’t get better than the delicious pizzas cooked up in the wood-fired oven at The Ruin. Their outstanding chefs have given us their top tips on how to make the perfect pizza.

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INGREDIENTS 500ml of cold water 100ml rapeseed oil ½ tsp of dried yeast 250g semola flour 750g 00 flour 15g salt

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METHOD Put water, oil and yeast in an electric mixer bowl Add all the flour and mix for five minutes Add the salt and mix for a further ten minutes until it forms a smooth dough and isn’t sticking to the mixer bowl - if the dough is too wet, add a little bit more 00 flour Take the dough out of the bowl and form one large ball, cover with cling film and rest for 45 minutes Remove the cling film and weigh out five 250g balls. Using the palm of your hand, kneed/form a small ball with a smooth top. Place in a tray, cover and prove in the fridge overnight Remove the dough from the fridge and allow to come up to room temperature Cover each dough ball in flour, and gently scrape each one out of the tray. Using your hands stretch each ball using a circular motion, pushing and turning at the same time Now you’re ready to build your pizza of your choice and cook

Our secret ingredient: You’ll often see a recipe recommending that you use semolina to roll out your dough and stop it sticking. We go one step further – roughly a third of the flour in our pizzas is semola flour – a close relative of semolina produced by a finer milling of durum wheat. This adds wonderful colour and flavour to our dough.

A bit of a stretch: The secret to stretching is to rest the dough at room temperature for a couple of hours first. Gently flatten the dough ball with your fingertips, then pick it up, holding in the centre with one hand as you work around the edge with the other. Be sure to keep the edges thicker to form a decent crust.

Less is more: We know you want to create the most epic pizza possible, but believe us when we say less really is more. One ladle of tomato sauce is more than enough; spread this thinly using the back of the ladle. You should be able to taste your dough – it’s not just a platter to hold the toppings. An overloaded pizza will result in a burnt crust and a soggy bottom – and nobody wants that!

Good things come to those who wait: Making good pizza takes time, allowing the yeast to create a light, flavoursome dough. Once made, your dough needs to rest in the fridge (tightly wrapped) for at least 24 hours.

Gently does it: Resting the dough allows it to develop lots of air bubbles, which give your dough lightness and a beautifully crisp crust. Keep your handling of the dough to a minimum until you’re ready to stretch it to protect all those lovely air bubbles.

Cheating isn’t always wrong: Our woodfired oven is our (not so) secret weapon, reaching around 500°C and producing perfect, crisp pizzas every time. If you don’t happen to have a woodfired oven at home, the next best thing is a pizza stone. Preheat your stone using the highest temperature your oven offers and you’ll be rewarded with a wonderfully crispy crust.

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Crab mac and cheese A seafood sensation The New Inn’s renowned crab macaroni and cheese dish is indulgent, delicious and perfect for digging into at the end of a day exploring our perfect little island. Why not recreate this delectable delight at home? Fresh British crab from your local fishmonger will ensure you get the most authentic results - it’s usually at its best between April and November.

INGREDIENTS Sauce 50g butter 25g plain flour 500ml whole milk 150g finely grated parmesan 250g brown crab 500g macaroni boiled for 8 minutes 1 shallot peeled and roughly cut up 2 bay leaves 10 peppercorns Garnish 50g chopped chives 50g chopped dill 6 spring onions finely sliced if slightly wilted soak in ice water to 10-15 minutes 250g picked white crab meat Juice of 1 lemon Brioche crumb 1 brioche loaf 100g butter 2 cloves of minced garlic 8 sprigs of thyme

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METHOD For the dressed crab Top tip: To pick through the white crab for any remaining shell, sprinkle it onto a metal tray - you will hear any remaining shell hit the tray, and also feel it in your fingers To dress, mix half the chopped herbs and 1/4 of the lemon juice through the crab and season with salt and pepper For the brioche crumbs Slowly melt the butter in a saucepan; whilst it is melting roughly break up the brioche and blitz in a food processor to make rough breadcrumbs Add the breadcrumbs, garlic and thyme leaves into the melted butter and mix with a whisk so the crumbs soaks up all the butter and garlic Pour onto a baking tray and place in the oven for 6 to 8 minutes on 160°C until golden and crispy For the sauce To start the sauce add the shallots, bay leaves and peppercorns to the milk and warm through on a low heat to infuse for 10-15 minutes Pass through a sieve and discard the peppercorns, bay leaves and shallots Make a roux by melting the butter and adding the flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes, mixing with a spatula to prevent burning. Switch to a whisk and slowly add the infused milk to the roux Allow to cook out on a low heat until the sauce is smooth & glossy. Add in the cooked macaroni, 100g parmesan, brown crab meat and mix until combined Add the chopped herbs and remaining lemon juice, season with salt and pepper To plate Pour the pasta and sauce into a baking dish, sprinkle with the remaining parmesan and place under a hot grill until browned. Generously sprinkle over the brioche crumb and add the dressed white crab. Finish with finely sliced spring onions.

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Tresco tipples

Try this at home…

The Apple Tree INGREDIENTS

METHOD

50ml SC Dogs Honey Spiced Rum (or any spiced rum you have at home!) 100ml Apple Juice 10ml Sugar Syrup 25ml Passion Fruit Puree 4 Lime Wedges Mint and Lime to garnish

1. Add 3 lime wedges into glass 2. Add sugar syrup and muddle 3. Add rum, apple juice, and passion fruit puree 4. Fill with ice and stir 5. Garnish with mint sprig and lime wedge

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A heavenly stay at Hell Bay The highest-rated hotel and restaurant on the Isles of Scilly, enjoy a luxurious stay at Hell Bay Set on the idyllic little island of Bryher, Hell Bay is renowned for its stunning ocean views, beautiful gardens and gorgeous, locally sourced cuisine, and boasts the coveted four red star AA ‘Inspectors’ Choice’ award and three AA Rosettes. Sourcing fresh local ingredients on an island as small as Bryher, with a population of only 84 people, is no mean feat. But Head Chef Richard Kearsley has a secret weapon up his sleeve, his partnership with passionate local farmer Graham Eggins of Hillside Farm. “Graham’s brilliant, he’s been on the island close to 5 years now,” Richard says. “He’s taken on the farm, nurtured it and developed it into a great resource for the island. “We try to use as much as possible from Graham and his wife, Ruth. They bring down big crates of fantastic fresh vegetables and the most amazing eggs. He’ll just walk through the back door with them and we’ll use as much as we physically can.” With Richard regularly sourcing his ingredients from Hillside Farm, it means the hotel's dinner menu changes daily, taking inspiration from the fresh produce Graham has dropped off that day. “It’s great having the flexibility to be able to use the ingredients around us,” Richard continues. “Having this fresh produce to hand really gives our menu great

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authenticity and seasonal flavour. “Our dinner menu is pretty simple, offering three choices for each of the three courses, so having it change virtually every day is straightforward and gives our dinners as much variety as possible. That’s not to say that the dishes are simple! Examples of plates on the ever-changing menu include chicken liver parfait,Bryher crab and lobster, Hell Bay gin-cured salmon, pan-roasted sea bass and succulent roast partridge. “Literally as soon as Graham brings the products in, we use them. So all of the food is as fresh as possible.” When Richard isn’t working away in the kitchen, he’s over at Hillside Farm stocking up on their irresistible eggs! “I buy eggs from Graham permanently because they’re some of the best eggs I’ve ever seen,” said Richard. “The yolks are just golden - you make scrambled eggs out of them and they glow in the dark!” he jokes. “You can tell the chickens are well looked after and fed in the most natural way possible - these eggs really put a lot of the mainland ones to shame. “To be honest, the entire farm is great. Graham is now amassing a herd of cattle so we’ve already tried some of the beef and it’s fantastic meat. As that herd grows, it’s exciting to think how the local produce we have access to is only going to grow too.”

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For more information, visit: hellbay.co.uk

For Richard, using locally produced food is a no-brainer and something he takes pride in when putting together his award winning menus. “Everything that we buy here has a shipping cost attached if it comes from the mainland, so it just makes sense to use what’s on your doorstep,” said Richard. “And, of course, the freshness of it is amazing. It’s what our customers expect and obviously we take pride in using everything produced on the island as much as possible.” Richard has built up the perfect working relationship with Graham and Ruth at Hillside Farm, so much so that he is now able to make requests! “Just recently we were talking about mushrooms. He hasn’t started growing them yet and I’d love to have locally-sourced mushrooms to put on the menu. He has an old barn where they’d thrive, because they love the dark, and just the other day he told me he’s got some mushroomgrowing kits and will give it a go. “We talk about ingredients all the time. I pester him asking ‘is the

rainbow chard ready, Graham, is the spinach ready yet?’, and he’s like ‘have you seen the weather? We haven’t had any rain for weeks!’ so yes we have a great rapport with Graham, the whole team here has. Everyone here is fascinated about the farm.” Speaking of using fresh local produce, read on to learn how to recreate one of Richard's delicious dishes using Bryher ingredients...

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Spanish tortilla with turnip top salsa verde This delicious dish is made with produce sourced purely from Hillside Farm. Richard Kearsley, Head Chef at Hell Bay says: “We’ve taken a lot of Graham’s spring greens, some new season garlic that hasn’t quite started shooting, some of the early spring onions, and turnips which we’ve pickled. We’ve also used the leaves from the turnips to make the salsa verde, nothing has gone in the compost with this dish!”

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Tortilla 3 cooked new potatoes 4 spears of asparagus 1 bulb of new season garlic 1 small bunch of kale Baby turnips 3 whole eggs

1. For the tortilla chop the tops off the garlic; dice the asparagus, kale and new potatoes and lay them in the paper lined cast iron skillet

Salsa verde Turnip tops - a couple of tops from the baby turnips 3 tbs of chopped parsley 4 anchovies 1 tbs Dijon mustard 1 splash of Worcester sauce 8 tbs extra virgin olive oil 1tsp red wine vinegar 1 tsp capers Salt and pepper

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2. Crack and beat the eggs separately and season; pour over the vegetables, bake in an oven at 160°C for about 10 minutes until firm 3. To make the salsa verde, add all the ingredients into a small food processor and blend until lovely and vibrant green

chapelhousepz.co.uk

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Pick of the crop Graham and Ruth Eggins are the husband and wife duo feeding on to Tresco’s menus and much-loved island store A short boat ride over to Bryher will bring you to Hillside Farm – home to one of the largest growers of fruit and veg on the Isles of Scilly. Spectacular scenery surrounds the farm, lapped up by nearby beaches, Green Bay, Great Par and Rushy Bay – all within a few minutes stroll

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from where the magic happens. Graham and Ruth, together with children Sam, Lizzie and Martha, upped sticks from mainland Cornwall, making a home on Hillside back in September 2015. Since then, they’ve been feeding into the flourishing Scilly food scene,

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supplying to locals and visitors alike, including Hell Bay Hotel and Tresco Island. “We enjoyed many holidays on the Isles and always dreamt of moving over – like many people do,” says Graham. “The opportunity arose, we accepted the challenge and we’ve never looked back,” he adds. “It was quite the journey, but it has since become home.” Fast forward a few years, Graham and Ruth’s ever-growing business now includes North Devon cattle, British saddleback pigs, chickens and native black bees; as well as the growing of arable crops throughout the seasons. All of which are grown from seed and picked daily to ensure the freshest produce possible. “My parents were farmers,” says Graham. “So it was a natural progression for me, I’ve been involved in farming virtually all of my life. This is the first farm we’ve had of our own, as a family. We are thoroughly enjoying it and the lifestyle it brings.” Escaping to an island off the Cornish coast can be quite the change, but when it comes to farming, a small working community is the norm. “When you’re busy working on a farm, you get that feeling of a tiny, close-knit community; so life on Bryher isn’t a million miles from what we’ve experienced before on the mainland,” explains Graham. “The main difference for us is that all the produce that we grow – apart

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from what we supply to Tresco – we sell direct from the farm. “We have our own honesty stall where we sell all of our veg and people can also pop and see us in the barn to buy meat. We have a lot of contact with the end consumer, which is really satisfying. We’re really lucky to be able to do it here.” “We supply Hell Bay with various fruit and vegetables from fresh kale and beetroot, to strawberries and everything in between,” Graham tells us. “You name a veg, we grow it." “Over on Tresco, we work a lot with the shop – particularly when it comes to supplying potatoes. We are quite often the first farm in the whole of the UK to grow new potatoes. We are usually a week or so ahead of Jersey. “Tresco usually get in touch with what they want, and I’ll just take it to the quay, or I might actually load up my own boat and take it across myself. “We want to supply produce that is at its absolute best. There’s no point in harvesting it and then leaving it for 24 hours, because in our eyes, it’s not fresh and tasty then. “One of our main draws is how quickly we can turn produce around and personally deliver to our consumers.” Farmers on the Isles of Scilly are lucky in that they can get ahead of the game when it comes to supplying through the seasons.

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“We couldn't think of a better place to be doing what we love”

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“Asparagus season is usually one of the really early growers for us,” says Graham. “On mainland UK, they normally start harvesting it around April time, but here it can be as early as February; so we tend to get a head start on things, which is great for us and for our consumers on Bryher and over on Tresco, too.” Graham and Ruth thrive on running the farm as a small family business, and are also finding ways in which to add to their offering. “We are looking to progress and focus on how we can grow the farm in the future. One way is our brand new business Scilly Chilli, where we grow all the chillies before making them into tasty sauces, jams or chocolate which are also being sold on Tresco,” explains Graham. But for now, a day in the life of the Eggins family starts with a 4 o’clock alarm before hitting the poly-tunnels, where they’ll pick produce before the heat hits. “Then we’ll feed all the animals to keep them happy and quiet for the day,” he smiles. “Next, we move straight on to picking the vegetables. Every day of the week, we spend about two to three hours picking produce for the day and filling any orders we might have. “As soon as we’re finished with the picking, we’ll be busy planting and preparing for the next crop. In the evening it’s a case of feeding the animals again before we crash on the couch. “There’s a lot of physical, manual work involved. But we couldn’t think of a better place to be. The beauty of Scilly is that we can spend much of

our time outdoors, making the most of the beautiful landscapes and the great climate. “In the summer months we never see a sunset because we’re exhausted by the time the sun goes down,” laughs Graham. “But we catch every single sunrise, which is amazing. It reminds us why we call this place home!” Five years in, Graham, Ruth and their three children are very much enjoying life on Bryher. “We’ve got our routine, we love being a part of the local community and we couldn’t think of a better place to be doing what we love.”

For more information, visit: hillsidefarmbryher.co.uk / scillychilli.co.uk

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Out and about

From historical castles and beautiful gardens, to peaceful beaches with crystal clear waters, there’s something to keep everyone smiling on Tresco

Land Whether you're looking to get closer to nature, find creative inspiration or get fit away from busy gyms, a trip to the peaceful sanctuary that is Tresco has you covered with an abundance of great activities and experiences that the whole family will enjoy…

SADDLE UP Take in everything St. Mary's island has to offer with a horseback ride along coastal bridleways, country lanes and farm tracks. Start your journey at St Mary’s Riding Centre and set off along the coast for breathtaking views around the island. For less confident riders, the centre also offers trips on horse-drawn carriages.

CYCLE THE DAY AWAY

ENCHANTING ART

One of the greatest joys of Tresco is that it is car-free, making it a safe and peaceful environment for the whole family to enjoy. Two wheels really are the best way to get around the island - whether it's children taking their tentative first turns around the square or an attempt to keep up with Graham from the Bike Shed as he laps the island each evening. Speaking of the Bike Shed, that's where you need to go to pick up your hire bikes for your stay!

No trip to the island is complete without a visit to Gallery Tresco. Located in a former gig shed right on the waterfront at New Grimsby, the gallery is home to spectacular showcases of fantastic art, ceramics, sculptures and artisan jewellery, all by artists inspired by the islands, Cornwall and the wider region. Here you’ll find works from the likes of Lizzie Black, Marie Mills and Richard Guy, plus many other guest artists.

GAME, SET, MATCH GARDENERS’ WORLD The stunning, sub-tropical Abbey Garden is a unique place in which to discover plants from across the world’s Mediterranean climate zones, from Brazil to New Zealand and Burma to South Africa. All flouring just 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall.

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Perfect your backhand with an afternoon on court with your nearest and dearest. With two astroturf courts near the Island Office and Spa, and an all-weather court at the Sea Garden Cottages, you can play on for as long as your heart desires. Courts are available to book at Tresco Island Spa - where the team will be able to help you with racquets and balls.

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SPA SANCTUARY Tresco Island Spa is the ultimate place for achieving complete relaxation during your time on the island. Featuring an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and gym, as well as a wide range of face and body treatments, the beautifully appointed spa will leave you feeling like you’re walking on air.

HISTORY LESSON HOLE IN ONE Enjoy a quick boat journey over to Britain's most westerly golf course on St Mary’s for a one-of-a-kind day on the greens. Golfers can enjoy a nine-hole, 18 tee course with stunning island vistas as far as the eye can see. The course is open all year round and has a cosy clubhouse, perfect for post-game refreshments. We keep clubs at the course especially for the use of Tresco guests, so do call ahead to ensure they're available. Ask at the Island Office for details.

Tresco has been on the front line of Britain's defences since the 16th century, making it the perfect place for budding historians to explore. Take a stroll across the island and you’ll find the remains of two Tudor forts, the 17th century Cromwell Castle and a WW1 sea plane base.

YOGA AND MEDITATION Take some me-time out and indulge in some yoga or meditation courtesy of Bryher islander, Gem Hansen, who runs private and group classes on Tresco, throughout the year. When the weather is fine, classes take place in a variety of island locations, for an experience like no other - from the white sands of Appletree Bay to the subtropical splendour of the Abbey Garden. There’s also the Flying Boat Studio for colder days, which overlooks New Grimsby, Bryher and beyond - the ideal location to lose yourself as you find your flow.

KEEP FIT

EYES TO THE SKIES

Of course, Tresco is the perfect place for a relaxing island getaway in the sun, but there’s also loads to do for sport and fitness fanatics too! In addition to the gym at the Tresco Island Spa, there are miles of coastal paths and tracks criss-crossing the island - perfect for coastal runs or country strolls. During the summer months there are regular Beach Fit sessions, and keep an eye out for the opportunity to join a trial row in our hisotoric island gigs.

The skies are alive with avian activity on Tresco, especially in the spring and autumn when migratory birds such as puffins, razorbills and guillemots migrate. The island truly is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with three bird hides and special tours on occasion with professional ornithologist, Will Wagstaff, as well as visiting experts from the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, RSPB and others..

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Sea Take to the crystal clear waters that lap up the island for a tranquil experience like no other…

ISLAND ADVENTURES From a wildlife safari to an island-hopping adventure, take to the waves with Tresco Boat Services. They visit the other inhabited islands several days a week, as well as plentiful opportunities to head out and spot seals, dolphins and more in the waters around the archipelago.

SEARCHING FOR SEALS Get up close and personal with some incredible wildlife as the Scilly Seals Snorkelling team take you to see the seals on neighbouring St.Martin’s. You’ll be kitted out with all the right gear so you can take a peek under the clear waters and spend time with the animals that live beneath!

HIT THE WAVES It’s time to amp up the adrenaline and dive head first into some watersports! Get your fix with the team over at Tresco Sailing Centre. With everything from day-boats and dinghies, to kayaks and paddle boards, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable on-water adventure.

WATCH THE GIGS WILD SWIMMING If you’re looking for the best place to sample wild swimming for the first time, or you’re a seasoned pro, there are few locations to rival Scilly when it comes to wild swimming spots. You’re spoilt for choice with perfect spots from which to set out, with sheltered bays, crystal clear waters and soft, sandy beaches. If you’re looking for inspiration as to why you should try this pastime, turn to page 12 where Anna Parkes shares why she loves it so much.

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These traditional wooden sea-faring rowing boats were originally used as a way of earning a living with competing islands’ racing to reach passing ships, piloting them safely through the treacherous Scillonian waters. Now islanders race them for fun and there are plenty of opportunites to watch these competitions off the shores of Tresco. Hop aboard with Tresco Boards to witness a race to get close-up with the action. A mustdo for that quintessential Scillonian experience!

Marine Life Seafari, Seal Express, Water Taxi, Scilly Explorer, Thrill Rides, Evening Trips, Charters

Book Online: sailingscilly.com 01720 422060 07471 932964

Instruction, Hires, Sales, Kids activity sessions. Tuition on St. Mary's & Tresco, Hires to all islands. Kayaks, SUPs, Dinghies, Dayboats, & Motorboats We are Scilly's only licensed accredited water sports provider.

01720 422060 info@sailingscilly.com Book online

www.sailingscilly.com Tresco 01720 424919

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Protecting the islands’ bees Jilly Halliday loves honey bees and only wishes she’d discovered them sooner in her life. She moved to Tresco in 2019 and is now collaborating with local beekeepers across the islands, as well as mainland experts, to learn more about and protect Scilly’s very special honey bees

When Jilly and husband, Nick, turned 50, they decided it was time for a change. Nick had been travelling so much with his job in hospitality and when the opportunity came up to move to Tresco they thought it was certainly worth a visit to explore the opportunity. “We went to do a recce, with our son Stanley,” says Jilly, “and got stuck on the island for longer than our planned visit, due to the weather. It was the best thing that ever happened because we had more time to relax, take a proper look around. Stan loved Five Islands School, especially Mundesley boarding house; he pleaded with us to move here and to be honest, it took little persuasion because we were smitten too. So we packed up from Newcastle, and moved to Tresco.” Jilly had already been beekeeping for ten years at this point but had to leave her bees behind. “Bees on Scilly have not been affected by the Varroa mite,” Jilly explains, “a nasty parasitic mite that feeds off the honey bees’ blood, weakens them and spreads disease. So, at the moment there’s an agreement between all the islands’ beekeepers not to import bees from anywhere else that is infected with the mite. It was a real struggle for me, not having bees to look after all of a sudden.” Beekeeping had been more than a hobby for Jilly, it was a passion, and a huge part of her life. She missed being part of a beekeeping group, attending lectures and courses. So, when lockdown began in 2020, all the lectures moved online, and Jilly was able to get involved once again.

“There was some fantastic engagement with lecturers and experts, even beekeeping conventions started taking place online so all of a sudden all of this was available in my living room so I engaged with that and didn’t feel like I was missing out anymore.” The head gardener at Tresco Abbey Garden, Andrew, generously gave Jilly a hive of bees, and so began her Tresco beekeeping adventure. “When I go to inspect the hives here, I can’t get away from the fact that

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in doing this and our bees deserve this here too.” A key way in which beekeepers on Tresco and the other islands are doing this is through The Scillonian Honey Bee Project, led by Nick Bentham-Green on the mainland, and driven by Jilly on the islands. The native dark honey bee, Apis Mellifera Mellifera (AMM) has been in decline for many years and toward the end of the 20th century it was thought to be extinct, due to large importations of non-native honey bees and the introduction of disease, including Varroa mite. However, it emerged that this resilient little bee was still thriving in some small pockets of the UK, particularly Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. These native honey bees have longer fur, which keeps them much warmer and allows them to collect nectar in much cooler temperatures than imported bees that prefer the warmer climates of southern Europe. These bees are also better at adapting their behaviour according to the weather, so the colony will naturally reduce its growth rate when there’s a cold spell, whereas imported bees continue to grow in numbers which can result in the loss of an entire colony through starvation. The Scillonian Honey Bee Project aims to protect and conserve the local

I’m trained to look for disease,” explains Jilly. “I’ve seen how big a problem Varroa mite is on the mainland so it still seems strange to me now, when I look at the frames, it’s just not there. Here it’s like living in the 1950s with no Varroa, the bees, and the beekeepers are so lucky not to have that. They’re thriving.” Jilly is a member of the Bee Improvement and Bee Breeders’ Association (BIBBA), which works towards the conservation, restoration, study, selection and improvement of native bees. It’s an organisation that is passionate about stopping imports of honey bees both to allow the well-adapted native bees to flourish, and to stop the consequent risks to biosecurity and therefore, biodiversity. This is how Varroa mite came to the UK a few decades ago and it’s an issue that’s close to Jilly’s heart. For her, it’s crucial that bees aren’t imported to the islands. Fortunately, all the beekeepers on Scilly share this passion to protect their bees - but now they want to take it further, legally protecting the varroa-free status of the islands. “The bees are really beautiful here,” says Jilly, “and there is nothing to actually stop anyone bringing bees or bumblebees to the islands from elsewhere, which could easily introduce disease. So we’re working hard to educate everyone on the islands so we can protect our precious resource. We’ve written to our MP and to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, asking for them to ring fence the Isles of Scilly to make it illegal to import bees here. The Isle of Colonsay in Scotland and the Isle of Man have already succeeded

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honey bees on the Isles of Scilly and to increase the population through respectful beekeeping and science. Jilly explains there is still lots to learn about these special bees: “We are working hard and linking up with experts to research our bees. We’re working in partnership with the B4 (Bring Back Black Bees) group, another voluntary organisation that is trying to protect the British Isles’ native dark honey bee. We’re also getting involved with research projects and linking up with many organisations, including the University of Plymouth, Pollenize, who promote and protect all pollinator species, and of course, BIBBA.” “Some of our work is getting really clever and scientific, exploring bee genetics, specifically how hybridised the colonies here are. If we can find out more about this it will help us with research into disease resistance, as it’s much easier to improve bee stock with a pure strain than a hybridised one, which in turn will help us make our bees even stronger and better adapted to the local climate.” There’s been plenty of interest from the beekeeping community into the work of Jilly and her bee-loving colleagues on the islands, with various eminent scientists and bee experts visiting in recent years to aid in their research. They’ve created quite a stir in the world of bees. Jilly is also working to engage children across the islands and educate them about the importance of protecting not just the honey bees but pollinating insects in general. “We’ve done talks in school about bee disease and the children got involved by helping plant a meadow to

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attract bees, using native meadow seeds including wild marigolds and cornflowers, donated by the Lost Gardens of Heligan in Cornwall.” And the work doesn’t stop there. Jilly has plenty of plans for the future too, including a collaboration with Exeter University to find out more about whether the bees fly between the islands, which would contradict the theory that bees don’t fly over water. They’re also continuing to monitor honey, with samples being sent off to Reading University at the end of each season to be analysed, which will help them learn even more about the bees and the pollen they feed on. Jilly adds: “The honey on Tresco is like no other, it is really special. The bees collect pollen and nectar from the Abbey Gardens which is so unique. We have a collection of flowers, shrubs and trees from all over the world which provide food for all the wildlife, creating a beautiful balance. It’s about having enough forage for all wildlife, not just the bees.” Jilly and her beekeeping community have already done so much work to find out more about the honey bees of the Isles of Scilly’s, in order to protect their future. The hard work is paying off but you can be certain Jilly’s determination will never waiver and she’ll continue to remain fascinated by these incredible creatures.

To support the Scillionian honey bee project visit tresco.co.uk/bees

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Artist focus Saul Cathart

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Saul has an old map of Scilly, framed by his dad, that has hung on his wall for a decade. He looks at it every day and says, for him, Scilly has always been a place he knew he’d visit one day. He has a fine art degree in sculpture but in recent years has felt inspired to move away from this discipline and return to his real passion, painting. Saul paints exclusively in situ, so he can respond to his surroundings directly and he thrives on the experience of open space and trying to express how he feels as a result. “There is an immediacy to picking up a pencil or a brush, and making a mark,” Saul says. “When I draw and paint it feels so natural to me, like breathing. This is so important when making art. I don’t want anything to ever feel forced.” “After an intensely conceptual-based sculpture degree, I wanted to strip back my art to the basics, to the core of what matters. It was also my desire to capture the colossal sense of scale and distance that Cornwall has to offer that led me back to painting.”

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Saul Cathart grew up near the rugged coast of North Cornwall, so has always loved being near the sea. He has visited Tresco to paint on several occasions and has family friends on St Martin’s, so relishes any opportunity to return Visit Gallery Tresco tresco.co.uk/gallery

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PAINTING SCILLY - SAUL CATHCART One of the most important aspects of making a painting for me is to be able to switch off my analytical mind in a way that allows me to be more creative. By doing this I hope to make something observant, instinctual, interesting and free but also beautiful. I find I’m best able to do this when I’m out in the Cornish landscape. Better still, The Isles of Scilly. When I’m alone on one of Scilly’s isolated beaches - Pentle Bay on Tresco springs to mind - I feel almost instantly able to detach myself from the worries of modern life. It’s so easy to be alone here. The abundance of natural beauty you can find is at times overwhelming and when no visible signs of man can be seen, it can feel almost alien. This feels wrong somehow and reminds me that humans are actually made for living in this environment. For me, something ancient seems to kick in when experiencing this, something pulling me out of myself. It’s a relieving feeling, of calm, like the pressure of life is being lifted. Life seems simpler here and when the wind and rain come it adds to the experience! The Scilly Isles offer so many enticing colours and views. So much space and freedom, but it is also clear that being here is about survival and I find comfort in that because it stops me overthinking things. Here I can breathe deeper and I feel part of the world. When doing anything active in a chosen landscape it makes you experience it in a stronger fashion; walking, sea swimming, biking riding etc... But painting for me seems to go one step further. It connects me to it in a more personal way. Like having a conversation with someone you love. I’m in awe of this place. I’m excited and happy here, yet intimidated and humbled but above all I’m definitely in love. Saul Cathcart

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THE OLD COASTGUARD MOUSEHOLE

The ideal pitstop to refuel en route to or from Tresco

t: 01736 731 222

e: enquiries@oldcoastguardhotel.co.uk

As the South West’s leading supplier of speciality fresh foods, we are proud to share a genuine passion for food with the Tresco

Estate. Together, we are delighted to be able to provide Tresco’s

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sales@westcountry.co.uk

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Something for everyone Tresco might only be a little island but it has big plans for 2022. From walking festivals and low tide events to yoga retreats and outdoor theatre, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you’re looking for things to do during your time on Tresco

March "MINI TASTE OF SCILLY" FESTIVAL A true celebration of some of the finest food and drink the islands have to offer at the end of March. A fabulous opportunity to indulge in seasonal delights ahead of the full Taste of Scilly festival later this year. For more information on vendors, opening times and more, visit visitislesofscilly.com

SPRING EQUINOX YOGA RETREAT 18 – 21 March Join island yogi, Gem Hansen, in a serene yoga break as she fuses gentle flow, island hopping, restorative sessions, sunrise salutations, guided meditation and coastal explorations at this special time of year. There’s no better place to practice your serenity with Tresco's calming natural landscape in the background.

Find out more about our breaks and events at tresco.co.uk

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April

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WALK SCILLY FESTIVAL 12 – 18 April

LUCY ALDRIDGE YOGA RETREAT 25 – 30 April | 17 – 22 October

Bask in the great outdoors and enjoy spectacular vistas as the Walk Scilly Festival returns for six days of special, guided walks across the islands. Whether you’re an avid rambler, forager, wildlife-lover, sun-worshiper or stargazer, the festival offers a great variety of walks that celebrates the islands’ fantastic history, heritage and scenery. If you’re on the islands during the Easter break, look out for a plethora of family-friendly activities taking place in the spring sunshine.

Rejuvenate the body and soul with Lucy Alridge’s yoga breaks on Tresco. A stunning retreat on an idyllic island, this yoga experience is the ultimate break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

THE LOW TIDE EVENT 18 April

RE-OPENING OF THE NEW INN Keep an eye out for special offers and join us to celebrate the newlook New Inn.

Experience a truly unique slice of Scillonian life at the spectacular Low Tide pop-up festival. This takes place, mid-channel between Tresco and Bryher, celebrating the celestial circumstances that allow you to walk between these two neighbouring isles for a few short hours. Enjoy a seabed celebration complete with waves of live music, impromptu beach games, a bar, food stalls and rafts of family fun.

May

Tresco art break

WORLD PILOT GIG CHAMPIONSHIPS 29 April – 1 May

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

The international championships of Gig Rowing – the islands' historic national sport. From its humble beginnings in 1990 with 11 wooden pilot gigs taking part, the line-up now runs to around 130 boats of both men and women's crews. The starting line for Saturday's event is over a mile long!

Let your imagination run free and head out on a serene creative painting retreat with different contemporary painters hosting each of these five-night breaks throughout the summer. Painters include Paul Lewin, Maggie O’Brien, Amanda Hoskin and Imogen Bone. Take advantage of Tresco’s long-standing relationship with award-wining Newlyn School of Art and follow in the footsteps of the Cornish coastline’s most respected artists.

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June

October

SHRIMPING SEASON BEGINS 1 June

AUTUMN WELLBEING AND YOGA RETREAT 8 – 11 October

The perfect way to spend a purposeful afternoon on the beach, scooping up dinner ready to serve simply with fresh crusty bread. You can’t get more rustic than that!

Refresh, recharge and rejuvenate with five serene nights on Tresco as island yogi Gem Hansen and guest tutor Will Harrigan lead you through an exquisite workshop centred around meditation, yoga and breathwork to create total harmony between mind, body and spirit.

HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE 2 June We’ll be celebrating this occasion in true Tresco style – keep an eye out for further details.

TRESCO SWIM RETREAT 12 – 17, 17 – 22 October Jump in and discover the empowering mental and physical benefits of cold-water swimming in the blissful surroundings of the Isles of Scilly with experts Triscape.

TRESCO GUITAR RETREAT 28 October – 1 November What better way to indulge in your passion for six strings than by joining Stuart Marshall for a relaxing and educational guitar retreat on Tresco? Free from the noisy distractions of everyday life, this idyllic retreat offers you acres of island space to let your worries flush away and allow your creativity to run free with a supportive and inspiring musical environment.

ÖTILLÖ SWIMRUN ISLES OF SCILLY 4 & 5 June One of the world's toughest endurance races returns to the Isles of Scilly. The team alternates between running and swimming along a premarked course in nature; on Scilly, between islands. As a team you race within 10 metres of each other, you share the experience, the fun, the beauty (and the suffering!). The Sprint race is a full circumnavigation of the island of St. Mary's. It is a fantastic sightseeing trip with spectacular swims and some amazing runs. The big one, though, is the World Series race where competitors swim to and from the islands of St. Mary's, Bryher, Tresco and St. Martin's. It truly is unique and worth a watch!

September

November

TASTE OF SCILLY FESTIVAL Throughout the month

TRESCO PHOTOGRAPHY BREAK 3 – 7 November

From beach BBQs and supper safaris to vineyard tours and gin tastings, there is something for every kind of food and drink lover. Remember to check the Tresco website to find out more.

Capture the arresting beauty of Tresco through your own lens by joining award-winning landscape and wildlife photographer, Ross Hoddinott on a stunning photography break around Scilly’s breathtaking vistas.

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December There are plenty of festive events on Tresco in the run up to Christmas. From candlelit carols on Christmas Eve to a Boxing Day dip, New Year's Eve celebrations to relaxing festive yoga and meditation, and even Christmas shopping, Tresco style! Look out for details closer to the time.

Events throughout the year WALKING TIDES 2-4 February, 2-5 March, 1-2 and 17-19 April, 16-17 May, 13-14 August, 11-12 September Take advantage of this tidal phenomenon that allows you to walk between the neighbouring islands of Tresco and Bryher. Set off from Flood Hatch beach and follow the sandbars through the channel before curving back towards Bryher Quay. It’s a surreal experience that’s not to be missed! Spend the afternoon discovering our neighbouring isle, then catch the boat back later.

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LIVE MUSIC Tresco hosts various musical events from folk to rock and roll; toetapping Friday and Saturday nights at The New Inn to chilled Sunday afternoons on The Ruin Terrace.

YOGA TREATS Group sessions and private classes take place throughout the year with island yogi Gem Hansen. Guest tutor, Esmee Halliday, also visits us throughout the year. Classes take place in a variety of indoor and outdoor locations, from the Flying Boat Studio to the Abbey Garden and island beaches.

GIG RACING A fun night out for all the family - come and cheer from the beach or jump on a Tresco Boat to get even closer to the action. With women’s races every Wednesday and men’s races every Friday night from midMay to mid-September.

OUTDOOR THEATRE Settle down in the summer sunshine for Miracle Theatre on the Sea Garden Lawn, or pack up a picnic for an evening of Shakespeare in the Abbey Garden. Events take place throughout the summer.

Tresco through the seasons SPRING Unfurl into the year amidst a revitalising island spring. Be awakened by the incredible array of plants in bloom, or by Tresco-wide walking amidst nourishing nature as it comes to life with the island’s unique rhythm.

SUMMER Now is the time to enjoy hazy evening coastal walks and the most perfect of sunsets as tranquility knows no bounds. Challenge yourself to try a new sport in the crystal clear waters or set off on a trusty steed for unrivalled views of the island on horseback.

AUTUMN As summer gives way to autumn, everywhere you look there is an abundance of oranges and browns, framing your picture-postcard visit to our perfect little island. Your time on Tresco is golden.

WINTER Wrap up warm and brace yourself against the wilds of an island winter. Marvel at the sheer force of nature as the waves buffet Tresco’s beautiful beaches and feel happy to be alive in paradise.

T R E S C O. C O. U K | 9 3

TRESCO TIMES

2022 YEARBOOK

#MyTresco

The island through your lens…

@judeandetta Jude watching the sun get gone and leave colours in the sky #family #sunset #mytresco

@annasislandstyle It's been a golden, glorious autumn. #balmy #autumn #goldensunrise #greatpool #tresco #mytresco

@hayjamesw The next visit can’t come soon enough! Why do we have to leave?! #nofilter #tresco #paradise

@charlotteholmanros Taste the rainbow. #rainbow #tresco #mytresco

9 4 | T R E S C O. C O. U K

@lottiestorey Throwback to my first sea swim of the year overlooking Bryher. Wish I was here today

@cook_write_eat One more sleep #tresco #mytresco #islandlife #summer #momentsofmine #myhappyplace #myhappy

TRESCO TIMES

2022 YEARBOOK

Don’t forget to share your snaps on Instagram using the hashtag #MyTresco. Your Tresco memories could appear in next year’s yearbook

@treve.willis Colourful pots in Tresco's Abbey Gardens - the garden seems to be particularly colourful this year

@outdoor_mummy The best way to explore in Scilly #mytresco #scillyislands #kayakingadventures #paddlingaround #seakayak

@lottiestorey Found the island jungle #scillyisles #scilly #islesofscilly #tresco #islandlife #islandliving #mytresco #greettheoutdoors

@rebeccawaites97 Spending the evening with Mr Darcy, a bottle of red wine and a glorious Scilly sunset #mytresco

@trescobryhergigclub Tonight the men’s crew rowed out to the Eastern Isles and on the way back stopped off on Appletree. Nice 15k row. Not a bad evening for it.

@curlaroundtheworldwithdee During lockdown, Tresco residents started a little project painting rainbows to keep spirits high and show support for the NHS

T R E S C O. C O. U K | 9 5

TRESCO TIMES

2022 YEARBOOK

Tresco Islandshare

Thirty years of holidays on this unique, family-owned island… For those hopelessly addicted to Tresco, Islandshare is your opportunity to be more than a guest; to own your very own piece of this special place by choosing your favourite week in your favourite cottage and returning year after year.

30 YEAR TRESCO ISLANDSHARE MONDAY CHANGEOVER Curlew sleeps 6 Week 12 14-Mar-22 £9,720 Week 13 21-Mar-22 £9,720 sleeps 10 £53,690 £35,815

Maiden Bower Week 12 14-Mar-22

sleeps 8 £15,440 sleeps 6 £17,325

Reading Room

sleeps 6

Week 12

14-Mar-22

£12,450

Week 13

27-Feb-23

£12,450

Snipe

sleeps 2

Week 43

£6,550

24-Oct-22

Sophie (FB) sleeps 6/8

Farmhouse Week 21 22-May-23 Week 40 03-Oct-22

North End Week 43 24-Oct-22

Whether it’s the unbeatable views from the Flying Boat or Sea Garden cottages, or the peace and seclusion of one of our traditional properties, whatever makes your stay on Tresco special is what makes your Islandshare your own.

Week 40

03-Oct-22

£31,135

Week 41

10-Oct-22

£27,245

Week 43

23-Oct-23

£27,830

TUESDAY CHANGEOVER Doctors Cottage

sleeps 4

Week 13

22-Mar-22

£8,645

Week 16

12-Apr-23

£11,865

Green Week 13 28-Mar-23 Week 14 29-Mar-22

sleeps 6 £11,670 £14,585

Merrick Week 12 15-Mar-22

sleeps 8 £15,440

Norrard Week 12 15-Mar-22 Week 13 22-Mar-22 Week 39 26-Sep-23

sleeps 8 £15,440 £15,440 £34,320

Phoenix (FB) Week 41 11-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £27,245

Sandy Lane Week 17 19-Apr-23

sleeps 6 £21,810

9 6 | T R E S C O. C O. U K

SG = SEA GARDEN COTTAGE | FB = FLYING BOAT COTTAGE

TRESCO TIMES

2022 YEARBOOK

Seagrass (SG) Week 17 19-Apr-22 Week 42 18-Oct-22

sleeps 6/8 £34,810 £31,340

FRIDAY CHANGEOVER Garland (FB) sleeps 6 Week 16 14-Apr-23 £27,545

Wigeon Week 21 17-May-22

sleeps 6 £22,695

Heron Week 17 21-Apr-23 Week 21 19-May-23

sleeps 6 £14,700 £22,695

Kittiwake Week 12 11-Mar-22 Week 13 18-Mar-22 Week 42 14-Oct-22

sleeps 8 £15,990 £15,990 £21,785

Rowesfield Week 14 25-Mar-22 Week 18 22-Apr-22 Week 22 20-May-22 Week 42 14-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £15,560 £17,115 £31,965 £16,950

Sandpiper Week 14 25-Mar-22 Week 23 02-Jun-23

sleeps 6 £12,145 £24,970

Seaspray Week 39 23-Sep-22 Week 43 21-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £32,045 £20,015

Smugglers Week 28 07-Jul-23

sleeps 6 £64,840

WEDNESDAY CHANGEOVER Coastguards sleeps 8 Week 42 19-Oct-22 £20,985 Dolphin Cottage Week 41 12-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £15,870

Gadwall Week 12 16-Mar-22

sleeps 4 £7,055

Old Mill Week 41 11-Oct-23 Week 42 19-Oct-22

sleeps 8 £23,090 £23,090

Pegasus (FB) Week 42 19-Oct-22 Week 43 26-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £27,245 £27,830

Seapink (SG) Week 35 30-Aug-23

sleeps 6/8 £153,465

THURSDAY CHANGEOVER Colossus (FB) sleeps 10 Week 42 20-Oct-22 £31,965 Friendship (FB) Week 42 20-Oct-22 Week 43 27-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £27,245 £27,830

Hilltop Week 40 06-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £18,135

SATURDAY CHANGEOVER School House sleeps 8 Week 41 08-Oct-22 £24,115 Week 42 15-Oct-22 £24,115 Sea Horse (SG) Week 39 24-Sep-22

sleeps 6/8 £62,960

Starfish (SG) Week 41 08-Oct-22 Week 42 15-Oct-22

sleeps 6/8 £31,340 £31,340

Mincarlo Week 17 21-Apr-22 Week 41 13-Oct-22

sleeps 8 £23,325 £20,985

Rockpool (SG) Week 43 27-Oct-22

sleeps 6/8 £32,005

Sail Loft Week 12 17-Mar-22

sleeps 8 £15,440

MONDAY CHANGEOVER Plover sleeps 4 Week 36 05-Sep-22 £29,715 32yr

Shoreline Week 41 13-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £21,785

Sophie (FB) sleeps 6/8 Week 19 02-May-22

Tern Week 12 17-Mar-22 Week 39 29-Sep-22

sleeps 8 £15,990 £35,555

TUESDAY CHANGEOVER Seagrass (SG) sleeps 6/8 Week 13 22-Mar-22 £21,240 30yr

TRESCO RESALES TRESCO RESALES

£28, 867 30yr

Wigeon Week 12 15-Mar-22

sleeps 6 £7,450 20yr

WEDNESDAY CHANGEOVER Coastguards sleeps 8 Week 12 16-Mar-22 £11,835 20yr Old Mill Week 12 16-Mar-22

sleeps 8 £13,005 20yr

Pearl (SG) Week 38 21-Sep-22

sleeps 4/6 £45,890 35yr

THURSDAY CHANGEOVER Friendship (FB) sleeps 6 Week 12 17-Mar-22 £15,350 20yr Hilltop Week 41 13-Oct-22 Week 43 27-Oct-22

sleeps 6 £12,165 20yr £12,430 20yr

FRIDAY CHANGEOVER Garland (FB) sleeps 6 Week 14 25-Mar-22 £19,185 20yr Week 17 15-Apr-22 £23,230 20yr Heron Week 12 12-Mar-22 Week 13 19-Mar-22

sleeps 6 £7,450 20yr £7,450 20yr

Porth Week 40 30-Sep-22

sleeps 6 £21,000 20yr

SATURDAY CHANGEOVER Lobster (SG) sleeps 6/8 Week 28 02-Jul-22 £177,190 40yr Sea Horse (SG) Week 13 19-Mar-22

sleeps 6/8 £17,640 20yr

Starfish (SG) Week 36 03-Sep-22 Week 37 10-Sep-22

sleeps 6/8 £80,274 34yr £60,205 34yr

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ISLANDSHARE Please contact Dean Whillis on +44 (0)1720 424111 or email: islandshare@tresco.co.uk

T R E S C O. C O. U K | 9 7

TRESCO SPA MEMBERSHIP IS INCLUDED IN ALL ISLANDSHARE WEEKS | TRESCO ISLAND IS AN RCI GOLD CROWN RESORT

Self Drive Boat Hire 7.7m Sealegs

200hp Amphibious Rib

Boatshare

Powercat 525

Twin engine Catamaran

Daily Hire and Boatshare

Island Pilot

Gaﬀ Rigged Sailing Boat

Daily Hire and Boatshare

Orkney

25hp Electric Start Engine Daily Hire and Boatshare

Complimentary fishing equipment on all Boat Hires

Quality Boats with a Quality Service To book your boat contact Richard Bryher Boatyard, Bryher, Isles of Scilly, TR23 0PR

Email info@islesofscillyboathire.com Tel (01720) 422702 Mobile 07881767504 Website www.islesofscillyboathire.com