England, UK
24-hour layover: Focus on St Mary's. Walk the Garrison, explore Hugh Town (shops, museum, pubs). Time permitting, take a short inter-island boat trip (seal trip or quick visit to St Martin's or Tresco).
Weekend getaway (2-3 days): Day 1: Arrive St Mary's, settle, explore Hugh Town and Garrison. Day 2: Full day on Tresco (Abbey Garden, Cromwell's Castle, beaches). Day 3: Morning walk on St Mary's (e.g., Peninnis Head), leisurely breakfast before departure.
Tailor your itinerary to your specific passions, from history and food to adventure and art.
Concentrate on St Mary's, exploring the Garrison, Star Castle, the Isles of Scilly Museum, and ancient burial sites like Bant's Carn. On Tresco, visit Abbey Garden's figurehead collection, Cromwell's Castle, and King Charles's Castle.
Prioritize dining on St Mary's, Tresco, and Bryher, known for their quality restaurants. Visit Troytown Farm on St Agnes for its famous ice cream. Tour and taste at Scilly Spirit Distillery on St Mary's for local gin.
Plan extensive walking on all islands, tackling different coastal paths. Arrange kayaking or SUP sessions around multiple islands. Book snorkeling or diving trips to explore the underwater world.
Focus on beaches for paddling, sandcastle building, and rock pooling. Enjoy short, manageable walks suitable for children. Make inter-island boat trips an adventure.
Visit local art galleries and studios on St Mary's, Tresco, Bryher, and St Agnes, meeting local artists. Focus on the distinctive granite architecture of Hugh Town and the unique island cottages, observing their traditional construction.
Focus on quiet coastal walks, remote beaches, and the peaceful ambiance of the off-islands, like St Agnes or Bryher. Consider a yoga or meditation session if available through local instructors. Embrace solitude and natural beauty for contemplation and relaxation.
Backpacker's guide: Stay in bunkhouses or campsites. Self-cater most meals. Walk everywhere to save on transport. Limit inter-island boat trips to one or two. Focus on free activities like beaches and coastal walks.
Mid-range traveler: Stay in B&Bs or mid-range self-catering. Mix self-catering and eating at pubs/casual restaurants. Include a few specific boat trips. Luxury experience: Stay at high-end hotels, dine at fine dining restaurants. Consider private boat charters. Indulge in spa treatments.
Manage your expenses with these tailored plans, whether you are a budget-conscious traveler or seeking a luxury escape.
Focus on minimal spending to maximize your adventure. Accommodation and food are your main cost-saving areas.
Balance comfort and experience with a reasonable budget. This approach allows for a broader range of activities and dining experiences.
Indulge in the finest experiences the Isles of Scilly have to offer, from premium accommodation to exclusive activities and dining.
Strategize your trip to maximize experiences while minimizing costs. Timing and smart choices are .
Plan your trip to experience the islands' unique seasonal offerings, from summer vibrancy to winter tranquility.
Experience the Isles of Scilly at different times of the year, each season revealing an unique facet of the archipelago's charm and natural beauty.
This is the best time for swimming, sunbathing, and all water sports, with the warmest sea temperatures. All services are fully open, and boat trip frequency is at its maximum.
Experience quiet, dramatic weather, ideal for storm watching and photography. Discover authentic island life with fewer tourists around.
The islands host special events throughout the year.
April-May and September-October offer a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, ideal for a quieter visit with most services still available.
Island weather can change quickly. Pack layers and waterproof gear regardless of the season. Always check local forecasts.
During winter or periods of adverse weather, flight and ferry disruptions are common. Always check schedules and have contingency plans.
The weather can change rapidly. Always pack layers, waterproof outer shells, and sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain, regardless of the forecast.
