Isles of Scilly Road & Island Adventure

Route overview

From mainland roads to island paths, this journey is a fusion of scenic drives, sea crossings, and barefoot beach bliss.

Follow the route

🚗 Isles of Scilly Road & Island Adventure

Set off on a mainland-to-island adventure where the journey is part of the magic. Once you’ve made your way to the Cornish coast—typically via a drive to Penzance or Land’s End—hop aboard the Scillonian ferry or a short flight to uncover the car-free charm of the Isles of Scilly. This archipelago offers five inhabited islands, each with its own rhythm, landscape, and allure.

🏝️ Island Highlights (Once There, Leave the Car Behind)

A.) St Mary’s – The Heart of the Isles

Your gateway to the archipelago. Hire bikes or a golf buggy to cruise between sandy coves, historic lanes, and scenic headlands. Explore Hugh Town, the lively centre dotted with galleries, cafes, and local bakeries, then stroll the Garrison Walls—an impressive 17th-century fortification encircling the peninsula with panoramic sea views.

B). Tresco – Botanical Beauty & Ruined Royalty

Privately owned and pristinely maintained, Tresco is famous for its Abbey Garden, home to over 4,000 exotic plant species from across the globe. Climb to Cromwell’s Castle and King Charles’ Castle for historical echoes and commanding views. The island’s paths and shell-lined beaches are perfect for slow wandering and spontaneous swims.

C). St Martin’s – Beach Paradise & Seal Encounters

Boasting some of the whitest sands and clearest waters in the UK, St Martin’s is a snorkeller’s dream. Join a local tour to swim with seals in the sheltered bays or wander dune-backed beaches like Great Bay and Little Bay. The island also features artisan makers—from glassblowing to handmade chocolates.

D). Bryher – Wild Meets Tranquil

A pint-sized island packed with contrast. The west coast is wild and wave-battered, especially around Hell Bay, while the sheltered eastern shores offer peaceful coves ideal for kayaking or crabbing. Bryher also has a vibrant food scene—don’t miss the island bakery or the award-winning Hell Bay Hotel restaurant.

E). St Agnes – Remote, Rugged, Refreshing

Tiny and unspoiled, St Agnes is the UK’s southernmost inhabited island. It’s known for its untamed beauty, artisanal vibe, and historic lighthouse. Walk its windswept paths, forage for sea glass on the beach, and enjoy a pint at the UK’s most southwesterly pub, the Turk’s Head.

⏱️ Route Distance & Recommended Duration

• Mainland leg: Approx. 300–350 miles round-trip if driving from London to Penzance
• Sea/air crossing: Penzance to St Mary’s (2 hr 45 min ferry or 15 min flight)
• Island hopping: Via small ferries—10 to 30 minutes between islands

🗓️ Ideal Scilly duration: 5 to 7 days to fully appreciate each island’s personality, blend beach days with bike rides, and never feel rushed between ferries and footpaths.