HOLIDAY INFORMATION
Imagine....
Sparkling sands, expansive skies and clear seas. An undeveloped and unspoilt island archipelago, only 28 miles from the coast of Cornwall. Ignite your sense of adventure, with over 100 islands to explore in this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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There are five inhabited islands in the group; St Mary's, Tresco, St Martin's, Bryher and St Agnes.
All are different in character; St Martin's is famed for its white sandy beaches that seemingly go on forever. Get close to nature on St Agnes, the most south westerly island and the last stop before America. Bryher's wild and rugged coastline is where the sea really asserts its authority, especially around the dramatic Hell Bay. Tresco offers the visitor the chance to walk through a myriad of subtropical plants in its world famous Abbey Garden, while St Mary's, the largest island, offers a plethora of restaurants and shops to compliment its terrific coastal walks. The uninhabited islands belong to nature, where visitors can expect to see a variety of flora and fauna, many unique to the Isles.
Relax, unwind, daydream ..
The Isles of Scilly are a haven for those looking to escape the rush of everyday life. Lazy days by the sea, or picnics on a secluded stretch of white sand. Time meanders by at its own slow pace. If you're after exciting times, then how about diving with seals, windsurfing, sailing to an uninhabited island, canoeing or shark tagging? Activities that are varied and exhilarating. See local wildlife, such as seals and puffins on an island walk or boat trip. Learn about the island's rich heritage with a local expert. Did you know for example, that there are more prehistoric sites found per square kilometre here, than anywhere else in the country? Visit local galleries and workshops or sample locally caught cuisine such as crab or lobster.
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There are several ways to get to the Islands,(See the links page or our home page.) either by ferry, plane (Twin Otters) from several departure points: Exeter, Newquay, Penzance and Land's End and helicopter from Penzance..
For ferry and skybus information click here. For helicopter information please click here.
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There's so much to do on the off islands, in fact too many to list but here are some of the things you can do on St Mary's. For a more complete list then, please call the Tourist Information Office (01720 620600).
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Walks - coastal and inland
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Bicycle hire
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Tours by vintage car
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Nature Trails
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Lazing on the beach
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Pubs and restaurants
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Shopping
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Horse riding
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Golf
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Tennis
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Paddle boarding
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Diving
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Windsurfing
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Fishing
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Dinghy sailing
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Variety shows
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Amateur dramatics (A new show each year)
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Concerts
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Live music
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Watch the twice weekly Gig racing
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Isles of Scilly Museum
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Phoenix Stained Glass Studio
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Bourdeaux Pottery
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Arts studios
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Isles of Scilly Perfumery
If you get fed up with these and sunbathing then there's always the pleasure of the many pubs. Most even have a beautiful view as well!