Top 10 things to do in the Isles of Scilly
The Isles of Scilly are a small island group off Cornwall, known for white beaches, clear water, mild weather and wildlife. Getting there needs a boat or flight, so plan travel first and check times, as services depend on weather.
- 1
Tresco Abbey Garden
📍 TrescoGardensA sub-tropical garden with plants from across the world, thriving in the mild climate. A highlight of any Scilly visit.
- 2
St Martin’s beaches
📍 St Martin’sBeachesLong, empty white-sand beaches and clear turquoise water. Quiet even in summer.
- 3
Bryher
📍 BryherWalks, wild coastThe smallest inhabited island, with moorland, rugged west coast and sheltered bays. Good for walkers.
- 4
Hugh Town and the Garrison
📍 St Mary’sWalks, viewsThe island capital on St Mary’s, with a clifftop walk around the old garrison walls and harbour views.
- 5
Peninnis Head
📍 St Mary’sCoast, walksRock formations and wide sea views at the southern tip of St Mary’s. Pleasant at sunset.
- 6
Isles of Scilly Museum
📍 Hugh Town, St Mary’sHistory, wet weatherA local museum covering the islands’ maritime and island history. Useful when the weather turns.
- 7
Seabird and seal boat trips
📍 Departing St Mary’sWildlife, boatsBoat trips from St Mary’s to see seabirds and seals around the outer islands. Check sailing times and weather.
- 8
St Agnes and Gugh
📍 St AgnesBeaches, walksA small island linked at low tide to Gugh by a sandbar, with coves and coastal walks.
- 9
Samson Island
📍 Off Bryher and St Mary’sWildlife, boat tripAn uninhabited island with ruined cottages, reached by boat trip. Check landing conditions.
- 10
Island hopping
📍 Between the islandsBoats, day tripsSmall inter-island boats link the main islands, so you can visit several in a day. Check the timetable.
Where to base yourself
Last checked: October 2026.