NEXT STOP ISLES OF SCILLY
Take the Night Riviera Sleeper train to paradise and trade the daily grind for a place to unwind VisitIslesofScilly.com
WELCOME to Scilly
The Isles of Scilly, located 28 miles off Land’s End in Cornwall, are precious jewels emerging from the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.
During summer, they bask in warm sunshine and tranquil waters, while winter brings relentless storms and tempestuous seas. Spring comes early in Scilly, heralded by gentle rays of warm sunlight and a buoyant atmosphere and a feeling of well-being. As autumn settles in, a haunting mist shrouds the coastline, evoking stories of shipwrecks amidst the rugged shores.
Throughout the year, the islands are adorned with heavenly hues and under the darkest of night skies, revealing Scilly’s rich maritime heritage and breathtaking natural splendour. Teeming with diverse wildlife, lush vegetation, and an abundance of pristine beaches, this captivating archipelago stands as a unique gem within the British Isles. Its five inhabited islands, the largest spanning just 6 square miles, are surrounded by numerous uninhabited islets, forming a tightly knit cluster. Despite its small size, the community thrives, with only 2,200 islanders calling Scilly home. The allure of these magical isles captivates the mind, body, and soul, offering endless delights for those who venture to its shores.
“JOURNEY FROM THE BRITISH MAINLAND TO THE ISLES OF SCILLY, A TINY ARCHIPELAGO 28 MILES
PEDAL UP
Exploring the islands by bike is a fantastic option, thanks to cyclefriendly roads and minimal traffic.
WALK THIS WAY
The Isles of Scilly beckon exploration on foot, offering unspoilt, pristine landscapes and unparalleled tranquillity.
Year-round, visitors can relish in the beauty of coastal paths, nature trails, and top-to-toe island walks. Amidst untouched terrain, adorned with vibrant flora and teeming fauna, lie uninhabited islands and abundant bird and marine life. Endless stretches of secluded beaches, elm forests, nature reserves, and the rhythmic crash of Atlantic waves along the western shores await discovery. Don your walking shoes, pack your rucksack, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Isles of Scilly.
Whether you rent bikes of various types on St. Mary’s and Tresco or bring your own aboard the Scillonian III passenger ferry, you'll uncover hidden trails and pathways leading to stunning island coves. With countless bike-friendly tracks, nature trails, and uncharted territories awaiting discovery, parking concerns become a thing of the past. You’ll spot an abundance of cafes, galleries, honesty stalls, ancient sites and craft shops on route. On Scilly, bikes are as ubiquitous as the residents themselves—cycling is simply the way of life!
WALK SCILLY
Each April, the Walk Scilly Festival transforms our islands into a haven of invigorating walking adventures and welcoming guided explorations, offering an authentic experience like no other.
HISTORY IN THE MAKING
Scilly Walks is run by local archaeologist Dr Katharine Sawyer offering bespoke privately guided walks and boat trips to introduce you to 8000 years of history in the Isles of Scilly. Enjoy a half or full day of delving into Scilly history across the inhabited Isles and less frequently, the uninhabited ones.
BEYOND HELL BAY ON BRYHER
Embark on an adventurous journey along Bryher's untamed side, heading towards Shipman Head on its northern and western edges. Experience the raw power of the coastal path as it hugs the rugged cliffs, feeling the tremors beneath your feet from the thunderous waves crashing against the formidable Hell Bay.
HIRING ON ST. MARY’S & TRESCO
You can hire bikes of all shapes and sizes on St. Mary’s and Tresco including electric, mountain, tandems, trailers, and tag-ons delivered straight to anywhere on St. Mary’s for a small fee, even with the option for them to greet you upon arrival at St. Mary’s Quay!
A sign of Scilly
JUMP IN
Whether you're an avid open water enthusiast craving adrenaline or a novice eager to hone skills in a calm bay, Scilly offers the ideal setting in the UK for a plethora of water-based adventures.
Plunge into the depths - dive, snorkel with seals or coasteer the rugged coastlines. Embark on guided sea swims, have fun in a dinghy, kayak, or SUP, or immerse yourself in Scilly's revered sport of pilot gig rowing. Before you know it, you'll uncover the unique charm of Scilly, setting the stage for an unforgettable aquatic journey.
CAST AWAY
Rent a powerboat for a couple of days or opt for a more leisurely experience with a kayak, sailing dinghy or paddleboard. Explore the islands at your own pace, floating from one to another, under your own steam. Discover hidden coves, uninhabited islands and claim a pristine white sand beach all to yourself, ideal for a refreshing swim in the sea or a romantic champagne picnic. Hire facilities on Tresco, St. Martin’s, St. Mary’s and Bryher. visitislesofscilly.com
ADVENTURE SCILLY
Adventure Scilly provide guided wild walks, dips in the sea, sunrise meditation & restorative yoga. They love to share the wild beauty, serenity, and dramatic contrasts of the archipelago with visitors to the islands. Find your inner peace! adventurescilly.co.uk
“ONE OF THE MOST MAGICAL COASTAL SPOTS IN THE UK IF NOT, DARE I SAY IT, THE WORLD”
Coast Magazine
SNORKEL WITH SEALS
Experience an amazing opportunity to snorkel with Atlantic grey seals in their natural habitat around the Eastern Isles. Although wild, these playful creatures are incredibly curious for a close-up encounter. Your very own Blue Planet experience! Check in with Seal Snorkelling Adventures. sealsnorkellingadventures.com
WILD SWIMMING
If you’re new to sea swimming on Scilly, we recommend you join the local group of sea swimmers for your first foray or stay close to the shore. The Wild and Scilly Mermaids have been swimming together all year round in Scilly waters for over 6 years and know the swim routes well. Join Ruth and Anna, passionate and skilled open-water swimmers, to experience the islands from a different perspective. wildandscillymermaids.co.uk
COASTEERING ON SCILLY
Join Kernow Coasteering for the islands best adventure activity. If you want to add some adrenaline to your time on Scilly, then try coasteering. Kernow Coasteering run regular sessions from Easter to September, on the main island of St. Mary's. Once kitted-up, you’ll explore the sublime granite landscape of Peninnis Head. Expect swimming, scrambling, exploring the hidden parts of the coast, and, of course, cliff jumping. An exhilarating adventure at your own pace, supercharging your Scilly experience.
Kernow Coasteering
Lobster on the beach
WHAT’S ON
There are countless compelling reasons to journey to the Isles of Scilly, especially with our enticing festival roster set to infuse our islands with vibrancy and charm in 2024.
Walk Scilly, April
10 days of exploring the islands with guided walks and talks.
Creative Scilly, May
An inspiring and intriguing celebration of culture and the arts, music, literature, performance and workshops from our island makers.
Ocean Scilly, August
A new nine-day nautical festival celebrating the seas surrounding the isles. From sea shanties and marine life, to shipwreck exploration, lighthouses and aquatic adventures.
Taste of Scilly, September
10 days of tasting the best food and drink from the islands including beach feasts, private dining and pop up suppers to tours, tastings and guest chefs. For all events, go to visitislesofscilly.com
DINE THE ISLES
Scilly showcases delightful locally grown produce, nurtured on the islands, embodying a microcosm of sustainable living and lifestyle. What could be tastier? Here are a few suggestions to tempt the tastebuds.
FEAST ON THE SEA
Seafood doesn’t get any more local than on Bryher. From the Atlantic waters straight to your plate, tuck into amazing seafood including lobster, crab, mackerel and more.
Visit The Crab Shack – a rustic litter eatery serving shellfish – or family-run Island Fish
LOW TIDE EVENT 2024
Experience the enchanting Low Tide Festival this September, nestled on a sandbar between Tresco and Bryher. This rare occurrence, only witnessed a few times annually during the striking spring tides, allows for a dry passage between the two islands. Indulge in a delectable array of offerings including seafood paella, crab, island gin, and much more amidst this unique setting.
ENJOY A TASTE OF SCILLY
Explore the culinary delights of St. Mary's, the largest inhabited island, by dining at one of its many eateries. From Mediterranean inspired flavours, Lobster Nights, restaurants with magnificent views to small delis, fine dining and traditional pub classics.
A PUB WITH A VIEW
Nestled in serene rustic surroundings and offering breathtaking vistas, The Seven Stones Inn on St. Martin’s provides a tranquil getaway. Their culinary offerings boast delicious dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, featuring fresh seafood sourced from the nearby waters and hearty pub food, complemented by a selection of robust ales.
BEST FOR WOODFIRED PIZZAS & DELI TREATS
Looking for exceptional wood-fired pizzas and stunning vistas? Look no further than Tresco’s Ruin Beach Café. Alternatively, indulge in a leisurely morning or afternoon at The Flying Boat Café & Deli, where tantalizing pastries and other delectable treats await.
Eat alfresco
Low Tide Festival
GETTING TO SCILLY
Where the journey is as memorable as the destination
To get to the islands from London via Penzance, board at London Paddington for the Night Riviera Sleeper Service direct, then onward travel with Isles of Scilly Travel or Penzance Helicopters.
Hop across to the islands with Penzance Helicopters (all year-round) for a 15-minute journey with options into both St. Mary’s and Tresco. Or catch the passenger ferry Scillonian III from Penzance Harbour (March – October) and spot wildlife as you go! Book with Isles of Scilly Travel.
THE RIVIERA SLEEPER FROM GWR
Why wait until you get to the Isles of Scilly to start your holiday? With the Riviera Sleeper service from GWR it starts the moment you arrive at Paddington Station.
Travelling on GWR’s Night Riviera Sleeper is more than just a train journey. Instead, think of it as a hotel on wheels where you’ll sleep tight overnight then rise and shine ready for your Scilly adventure.
Your Sleeper experience starts in the First Class Lounge at Paddington station where you can enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks. Onboard the train, continue to relax in the lounge before snoozing the night away in either a solo or twin cabin.
islesofscilly-travel.co.uk
penzancehelicopters.co.uk
WHERE TO STAY
Ready to book? Then it’s time to browse our accommodation listings and find a great place to stay. Choose from period hotels, self-catering hideaways, B&Bs and guesthouses. Find out where you can camp out under the stars or discover the perfect romantic bolthole.
WHERE TO STAY ON ST. MARY’S
For a dash of history and elegance, consider a stay at a star-shaped hotel, ocean inspired bolthole or something a little more classic. St. Mary’s hotels are conveniently located near St. Mary’s Quay for a spot of island-hopping! Alternatively, immerse yourself in the authentic Scillonian atmosphere by opting for one of the many charming guesthouses or a private self-catering retreat.
ON THE OFF-ISLANDS
Discover an array of awardwinning options on Scilly's offislands, such as the renowned Hell Bay Hotel on Bryher, the newly refurbished New Inn and Sea Garden Cottages on Tresco, and the picturesque Karma St. Martin’s hotel, nestled along the beach at Lower Town.
On arrival at Penzance, you can make your way directly to your onward connection to the Scillies. Or, if you prefer, freshen up with a shower in the Sleeper lounge at the station before spending a few hours explore this charming town.
Tempted? Here’s 3 top tips to make the most of your Sleeper