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Isles of Scilly Travel
Penzance Helicopters

Where your journey is part of the experience - how to spend a day on Scilly

Make the most of a day on the islands

If you fancy dipping your toes into Scilly for the first time, then why not take a day trip? The islands are close enough to visit for the day, and there’s plenty to do (or not, if you’d prefer!).

From idyllic beaches and wonderful wildlife to island hopping and the freshest local food, a day trip to the islands is an experience you will never forget – and it’s easier than you may think.

Travelling on the iconic Scillonian III passenger ferry takes 2 hours 45 minutes from Penzance Quay, arriving at St. Mary's around midday. You can relax in the onboard café and take in views of Cornwall’s spectacular coastline, including the world-renowned open air Minack Theatre, Land’s End and St Michael’s Mount. The ship is regularly joined by pods of dolphins, a raft of seabirds and occasionally even basking sharks – in fact, the route has been named the UK’s highest diversity ferry crossing for wildlife spotting. It’s the most popular way to visit Scilly for the day.

Flying to the Isles of Scilly gives you more time to enjoy the islands. By air, Scilly is just 15 minutes away, meaning you’ll get even longer to explore – but who’s clock-watching when the journey is as memorable as the destination? You can fly with Skybus, the Isles of Scilly’s own airline for more than 30 years, or Penzance Helicopters, putting the whole archipelago within easy reach.

Board a Skybus flight from Land’s End direct to St. Mary's or Penzance Helicopter from Penzance Heliport to St. Mary's or Tresco. Both take just 15 minutes and gives you around eight hours on the islands – enough time to relax, explore and plan your next visit. You could even fly into one island and back from the other to enjoy a true island-hopping adventure.

For the best of both worlds, fly with Skybus to the islands and sail home on board Scillonian III. The Fly + Sail round trip gives you more time on Scilly and the chance to experience Skybus and Scillonian III (with Isles of Scilly Travel) in a single break; fly out to the Isles of Scilly, then sail back to the mainland, looking out for sea life and enjoying the views of the Cornish coast as it approaches. More below for day trip travel options.

On your arrival in Scilly you have a choice. Do you immediately head to one of the off islands (Tresco, St. Martin’s, St. Agnes or Bryher) for lunch and a stroll, visit the Abbey Garden on Tresco, or do you soak up the Scillonian atmosphere of St. Mary’s? The choice is yours, but if you do choose an off island, be sure that you can get a boat back to St. Mary’s Quay to arrive no later than 4pm to make the Scillonian III connection back to Penzance (it usually leaves at 4.30pm).

Should you choose to stick to St. Mary’s, there’s much to be accomplished in your few hours on the island. From a stroll through Hugh Town, you’ll reach Porthcressa Beach and the Tourism Information Centre. From there you can head up to Buzza Tower to admire the view or walk around the headland to Peninnis Lighthouse and on to Old Town where there are a couple of eateries and a stunningly peaceful church yard where Lord Harold Wilson is buried.

Or why not hop aboard the Island Rover tour bus which leaves Holgate's Green on the Strand at 10.15 for an hour and 10 mins informative tour of St. Mary's?

Or from the Quay, you can head for the Garrison for a beautiful walk around the heavily fortified headland, steeped in history, surrounding the Star Castle. The Garrison offers amazing views of the entire archipelago to give you a sense of what Scilly has to offer, as well as of course the opportunity for a bite to eat at the historic hotel itself.

Alternatively if you want to explore further afield, you can hire a bike or an electric golf buggy and head off. There’ll be plenty of time to check out the Iron Age and Bronze Age settlements at Halangy Village and Bant’s Carn and discover the sublime beauty and peacefulness of Scilly’s stunning beaches. Taxi firms will be very willing to provide a tour of St. Mary’s but you will need to contact them in advance.

Of course if you fly in and out of the Isles of Scilly for the day (or combine air and sea travel) you’ll have a few more hours to enjoy our outstandingly beautiful islands!

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Day Trip Travel Options

Your journey to the Isles of Scilly is where your adventure begins. A scenic flight or leisurely sail gets you to this stunning sub-tropical archipelago that’s a world away from the rest of England. It’s so easy to visit and small enough to appreciate its incredible beauty and rich island heritage in just one day. Treat yourself to a day to remember: Sail from Penzance or fly from Land’s End with a Fly + Sail ticket, both Isles of Scilly Travel, or take the helicopter with Penzance Helicopters.
Day Trips - Gifts, Tips & Getting Here

Let us help you experience the best day of your life with our handy Scilly guide. From gift buying, tips and how to get here - we have it covered!
Day Trips - To impress your Friends

Just being on a remote island in the middle of the Atlantic might be enough to impress the most discerning. However, these top 5 experiences are sure to make a big splash.
Day Trips - Family Days Out!

Escape with the kids this summer for an adventure like no other. From the best picnic spots, to exploring rock-pools and water-side activities, we look at 5 of the best!
Day Trips - Space to Breath

If you’re hoping to escape to a place of beauty, with a sense of freedom rarely found elsewhere, coupled with boundless wildlife and secluded hotspots, then we’ve just the thing. Our open spaces provide the perfect playground to recharge and rebalance, and whatever you choose, we know it will be exhilarating and life affirming.
Day Trips - For Big Discoveries

A trip to Scilly is an experience that will change you, even in a day! Here we go off-grid and explore some of the more secret and iconic parts of this tiny archipelago. Get discovering now!
Day Trips - To Reboot your Life

There's nowhere better, or more unique, than to explore what's on your doorstep, especially on a day trip to Scilly. Let us help you reconnect with yourself and your loved ones in a single day on these tiny set of islands, afloat at the foot of Cornwall.
Day Trips - in 3 Hours

It's amazing how much you can achieve in just 3 hours spent on Scilly. Hop to an off island, take a tour or get your walking shoes on - you'll be spellbound, even in the brief time you're here. Check out these 3-hour suggestions across all 5 inhabited islands.

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Normandy Swimming Pool

Address

Normandy, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Telephone
01720 423645

enquiries@scilly.gov.uk

St. Mary’s

Normandy Pool is open all-year-round to both residents and non-residents. It features a full program of open sessions, swimming lessons and sessions for water babies. Please check our website or contact us for further…

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Crusader Island Boat Trips

Address

St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 0NW

Telephone
07494 323915

hooperboating@live.co.uk

St. Mary’s

No queues, no crowds - beat the Scilly rush hour with personal and friendly boating with a local.

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Facilities

Suitability
- Dog Owners
- Families
Key Features
- Coastal
- Groups
- Of historic, literary or architectural interest
Payment Methods
- Android pay accepted
- Apple pay accepted
- Cash accepted
- Contactless payment accepted
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Phoenix Craft Studios

Address

Porthmellon, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 0JY

Telephone
01720 422900

oriel@taterdu.plus.com

St. Mary’s

A co-operative of craftspeople in individual studios. Fused and stained glass, fabrics, printmaking, ceramics, jewellery and more.

Sleeps:
Facilities

Suitability
- Dog Owners
Venue Facilities
- Lovely studio workshop
What's included
- Equipment Provided
Accessibility
- Accessible to Wheelchair Users
- Assistance Dogs
- Easy access from main roads/good public transport links
- Guide Dogs Permitted
Children & Infants
- Accept children all ages
- Breast Feeding Friendly Throughout
Payment Methods
- Android pay accepted
- Apple pay accepted
- Cash accepted
- Contactless payment accepted
Establishment Features
- Dog Friendly
- Dogs-Accepted
- Eco Friendly
- Groups Welcome
- Open All Year
- Shop
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- Cycle Parking
- Reduced Plastic Use
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St. Agnes Boating Wildlife Safaris

Address

St. Agnes, Isles of Scilly

Telephone
01720 422704

john@stagnesboating.co.uk

St. Agnes

St Agnes Boating is working with the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust to promote the island’s wildlife. Every Wednesday we have a Wildlife Trust Ranger onboard who is our guide. The Spirit travels to Annet, the protected…

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- Dog Friendly
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Pot Buoys Gallery

Address

St. Agnes, Isles of Scilly

Telephone
01720 423932

gallerypotbuoys@gmail.com

St. Agnes

Pot buoys gallery is owned and run by local artist Emma Eberlein and showcases a variety of work by local artists and work inspired by Scilly as well as my own paintings on driftwood and jewellery made from recycled…

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Ravensporth Sailing Base

Address

Old Grimsby, Tresco, Isles of Scilly

Telephone
01720 424919

sailing@sailingscilly.com

Tresco

Sailing, windsurfing, sit-on kayaks, stand-up paddle boarding, fast RIB trips, kayak tours, hire & tuition. Taster sessions to full RYA courses with fully qualified instructors. Activities to try for all ages.

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Facilities

Establishment Features
- Equipment/clothing available for hire
- Fully qualified instructors
- Lessons/courses available
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Alex Bagnall Illustrations

Address

The Potting Shed, Bryher, Isles of Scilly, TR23 0PR

Telephone
07814 948151

alexbagnallillustrator@gmail.com

Bryher

Alex is an illustrator, painter, and avid beach comber, based in her studio on the West side of Bryher.

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GeoCultura Holidays

Address

Telephone
02081 451011

info@geoculturaworld.com

Isles of Scilly

Uncover the secret Isles of Scilly with a GeoCultura holiday, dedicated to taking you off the beaten track to learn about island life and hear the tales of the islands.

Sleeps:
Special Offers
- Island: St. Mary's
  Month: April
  Dates: 10th - 16th
  Price: £1,699.00 (No single supplement)
  Capacity: 2 places left (max 10 places)
  Phone: +44 2081 451011 (Mon-Sat 9am to 6pm)
  E-mail: info@geoculturaworld.com
  Additional Information: Price includes a la carte dinner bed and breakfast at the Star Castle Hotel, all guided walks, boat trips to off-islands and pre-dinner talks from local experts. Guests simply need to book and pay for their own travel from mainland to St Mary’s. Call us today for travel options advice. Enjoy the warmest of welcomes at Star Castle and great breakfasts and dinners! Ideal for first visit to Isles of Scilly or a long overdue return.
  More offers like this - 2024 Spring Availability
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Scilly Flowers

Address

Churchtown Farm, St. Martin's, TR25 0QL

Telephone
01720 422169

info@scillyflowers.co.uk

St. Martin’s

Scilly's postal flower service. Sending gift boxes of scented island flowers by 1st class post to any UK address all year round.

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Facilities

Payment Methods
- Apple pay accepted
- Cash accepted
- Contactless payment accepted
- Visa accepted
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HolyVale Vineyard & Winery

Address

Holy Vale, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 0NT

Telephone
01720 422317

info@holyvalewines.co.uk

St. Mary’s

Situated in the tranquil and beautiful Holy Vale on the Nature Trail at the heart of St. Mary’s, the Vineyard and Winery is a must visit location during your stay on St Mary’s.

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The Sailing Centre

Address

Porthmellon Beach, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 0NE

Telephone
01720 422060

sailing@sailingscilly.com

St. Mary’s

RYA & AALA licensed watersports centre offering instruction, hire & sales in windsurfing, sailing, powerboating & kayaking. Centres on St. Mary's & Tresco.

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- Equipment/clothing available for hire
- Fully qualified instructors
- Lessons/courses available
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Valhalla Museum

Address

Tresco Abbey Garden, Tresco, Isles of Scilly

Telephone
01720 424108

contactus@tresco.co.uk

Tresco

The unique Valhalla collection is situated within Tresco Abbey Garden and contains some 30 figureheads, as well as name boards and other decorative ships’ carvings from the days of sail.

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Seal Snorkelling Adventures

Address

Higher Town, St. Martin's, Isles of Scilly, TR25 0QL

Telephone
07340 055748

enquiries@sealsnorkellingadventures.com

St. Martin’s

This is a new business that is creating an unforgettable experience swimming with the amazing wild seals that surround our beautiful islands.

Sleeps:

1

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Tanglewood Table

Address

St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 0PB

Telephone
01720 422454

eat@tanglewoodkitchen.co.uk

St. Mary’s

Euan Rodger, former manager at London's savoy, now cooks for up to 8 people sitting around what was once the post office sorting table.

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Facilities

Catering
- Take away service
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Tresco Island Spa

Address

New Grimsby, Tresco, Isles of Scilly

Telephone
01720 424075

thespa@tresco.co.uk

Tresco

Tresco's extraordinary natural environment is a tonic in itself, but Tresco Spa is the perfect destination for those looking to truly relax and unwind. Our beautifully appointed Spa features an indoor swimming pool,…

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Endeavour Rib Service

Address

St. Mary's

Telephone
07471 932964

endeavour@sailingscilly.com

St. Mary’s

“Endeavour” is the fastest passenger boat in Scilly. We offer a bespoke water taxi service offering a fast and thrilling transfer between the islands at your request.
Rib Blasts to enjoy the thrill & excitement of…

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Raptor Boating

Address

Mayford Marine, Peninnis Farmhouse, King Edward's Road, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, TR21 0HE

Telephone
07729 127877

raptor@mayfordmarine.co.uk

St. Mary’s

Travel the islands in comfort & style at a time that suits you! Raptor Boating provides wildlife & scenic tours, water taxi & private charter services.

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St. Martin's Watersports

Address

Par Beach, St. Martin's, TR25 0QL

Telephone
07470711857

info@stmartinswatersports.co.uk

St. Martin’s

Crystal clear waters, uninhabited islands, amazing wildlife and fun out on the water - the best moments happen at sea! Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of the islands and see Scilly from a different…

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Community Observatory St. Martin's - COSMOS

Address

St. Martin's Observatory, St. Martin's, Isles of Scilly

cosmosscilly@gmail.com

St. Martin’s

The most south-westerly observatory in the UK. The facility provides two observation domes, and a warm room, to house computer and camera equipment, and where we also hold talks and workshops.

Sleeps:

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Scilly Rockpool Safaris

Address

Telephone
07530 304374

scillyrockpoolsafaris@gmail.com

St. Mary’s

Have you ever wondered what animals live under the crystal clear waters of Scilly? Join us on a rockpool safari - follow the falling tide, step into the wild, and discover the amazing marine animals that live along our…

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