Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are located twenty eight miles south west of Land's End and are some of the most beautiful islands you will ever see. Many of the islands are inhabited and offer accommodation and sandy beaches amongst other things. There are many historical places of interest and the Scilly's are virtually crime-free which ensures it is one of the safest places to visit.

You can make your way to the Isles of Scilly via helicopter, aeroplane or ferry services. The Scillonian III runs daily during the main season from Penzance and provides many a dramatic view from the cliff top Minack Theatre to the Wolf Rock lighthouse as you pass Land's End. Sailing time is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.

The main islands are St. Mary's, Tresco. St. Agnes, Bryher and St. Martins's. St. Mary's is the largest island but is still only 2 1/2 miles by 1 3/4 and is the terminus for all transport links to the mainland. The island's capital is Hugh Town (below right) and is no bigger than a village and most of the facilities can be found here. There are many ancient monuments to be discovered including a megalithic village and tombs. A small musuem in Hugh Town display's much of Scilly's history.

The island of Tresco (below), due to the effects of the Gulf Stream, has a mild climate with generally more hours of sunshine than the UK average. Tresco is famous for the Tresco Abbey Garden which is based on sub-tropical and temperate climate plants from around the world. You can visit Tresco direct by helicopter or catch a connecting ferry from St. Mary's.

The above photograph is used with permission from Alan Knight of the Tresco Estate. You can find out more about Tresco by visiting www.tresco.co.uk