England, UK
All five inhabited islands: Tresco, St Martin's, Bryher, St Agnes, and St Mary's (if staying on an off-island). Each has an unique character and set of attractions. Numerous uninhabited islands and islets: Samson, Teän, St Helen's, Eastern Isles, Western Rocks, and others. These present wildlife viewing and isolated natural beauty.
Inter-island boats: Daily services depart from St Mary's Harbour (Hugh Town quay) to a different selection of islands each morning. Check the quay board for the day's schedule. Boatmen also arrange specific excursions, like seal trips or birdwatching trips. Private charters: Arrange bespoke trips to specific islands or for activities like fishing or wildlife watching. This provides flexibility and customization for groups.
The Isles of Scilly are a haven for nature lovers, with many protected areas featuring breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Many uninhabited islands hold designation as nature reserves (e.g., Eastern Isles, Western Rocks). They have strict access rules to protect breeding seabirds and seals. Boat trips visit these areas for viewing from a safe distance.
Boat trips specifically for seal watching (e.g., to the Western Rocks or Eastern Isles) happen regularly. Puffin watching trips occur seasonally, typically from late March to July, often to the Eastern Isles.
Beyond natural beauty, the islands feature cultural and historical sites accessible on day trips from St Mary's.
Easily combined with a visit to Abbey Garden on Tresco. Offers insights into the islands' military past.
Scattered across various islands, these sites are accessible by walking once you arrive by boat. They connect you to the islands' ancient history.
Explore the small communities and working farms on Bryher, St Martin's, and St Agnes. This provides a glimpse into genuine island life.
These recommendations assume extending a stay in the wider region before or after visiting the Isles of Scilly, as multi-day trips from Scilly are not practical due to transport logistics.
Dartmoor National Park: Inland from Cornwall, for rugged moorland, extensive hiking trails, and unique granite tors. South West England: Continue exploring Devon, Dorset, and Somerset for rural charm, historic cities (Exeter, Bath), and stunning coastline.
These recommendations assume extending a stay in the wider region before or after visiting the Isles of Scilly, as multi-day trips from Scilly are not practical due to transport logistics.
Explore St Michael's Mount, Land's End, Mousehole, and local art communities around Penzance/West Cornwall. Visit St Ives, famous for its art scene (Tate St Ives), beaches, and picturesque harbor.
South West England: Continue exploring Devon, Dorset, and Somerset for rural charm, historic cities (Exeter, Bath), and stunning coastline. Rest of UK: Connect via train from Penzance to other major UK cities (e.g., London, Bristol, Bath), continuing your UK exploration.
Coastal Route: Drive or take trains along the South West Coast Path, exploring various towns and natural sites along the way. Heritage Route: Combine Scilly with historical sites in Cornwall (e.g., Tintagel, St Michael's Mount) and then move onto Dartmoor and other historic cities. This offers a deep dive into the region's past.
North Cornwall Coast: Surfing beaches (e.g., Newquay, Polzeath) and charming fishing villages (e.g., Padstow, Port Isaac). South West England: Rural charm, historic cities (Exeter, Bath), and stunning coastline.
After your Isles of Scilly visit, Penzance serves as a main hub for onward travel within Cornwall and the broader UK.
Direct services from Penzance connect to London Paddington, Plymouth, Exeter, and Bristol, offering seamless travel across the country.
National Express services from Penzance offer routes to various major UK cities, a cost-effective option for wider exploration.
Rental cars are available in Penzance or nearby towns, providing flexibility for touring Cornwall and beyond at your own pace.
