Our longstanding connections to the royal family dates back to the 14th century when the islands became part of the Duchy of Cornwall. We invite you to discover our islands fit for a queen as we explore some of the Queen's favourite things through our island communities. From tasty titbits we associate with a traditional royal 'knees-up', to her love of animals and even her favourite tipple! Read on.
The Star Castle was built in 1593 during the reign of Queen Elizabeth. Since that time, it has provided a haven for princes and paupers, some of whom have been escaping from dangerous enemies, but most are just looking to escape to peace, warm hospitality, and delicious food. This historic building is now a four-star, family-owned hotel with wonderful sea views, a choice of superb accommodation and two award-winning restaurants, one of which was the original officer’s messroom. Its ramparts provide the ideal spot to relax and soak up the views with a delicious Cornish cream tea.
Book your experience at Start Castle Hotel
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Queen Elizabeth is partial to a Dubonnet cocktail, which includes a splashing of gin. Island inspired gin is something Scilly does really well. There are two crafters: Scilly Spirit, with its notorious Bishop Rock Lighthouse inspired bottle, and Westward Farm Gin, who infuse gins with their home-grown botanicals, based on St. Agnes.
Order here Westward Farm Gin | Scilly Spirit Distillery
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Horses have been central to the Queen's life from a very young age. She had her first riding lesson when she was just three years old and was given her first pony, the Shetland mare Peggy, by her grandfather King George V on her fourth birthday. If you’re a horse lover, head north on St. Mary’s to St. Mary's Riding Centre; minutes from Pelistry Beach and with easy access to dozens of coastal bridleways, country lanes and quiet farm tracks. They offer 30-minute beginner sessions to 1 hour private lesson. It’s the perfect way to explore the coastline, riding along beautiful sandy beaches and paddling with your horse through the shallow, crystal clear waters.
Book your experience with St. Mary's Riding Centre
Sir Cloudesley Shovell was an English naval officer who came to an untimely death at the age of 57 when the Royal Navy’s HMS Association fleet perished on the rocks off the Isles of Scilly - “the second worst tragedy in Royal Navy history”. Today, a lonely stone at Porth Hellick marks the spot where Sir Cloudesley Shovell was washed ashore on 22nd October 1707. Queen Anne ordered a large marble monument (about 20 feet high) dedicated to the Admiral at Westminster Abbey, which inscribed the words “generous patron and worthy example”. To celebrate his life, Karma St. Martin’s Hotel named their restaurant the ‘Cloudesley Shovell’. It’s located at Lower Town Quay, which you’ll either arrive at or leave by if you’re island hopping for the day and is the perfect spot to soak up island living.
Book a table at Karma St. Martin's
It's common knowledge that the Queen's corgis travel with her, even bringing her first pup on her honeymoon in 1947! Elizabeth's father, King George VI, first introduced corgis to the Palace in 1933, and they've been a fixture ever since. Just because you’re not her Royal Majesty you needn’t travel without your cute pooch either. Scilly is a magical place for our furry companions with endless long walks, clear sandy beaches to play on and some wonderful places to stay; and we’ve even created a useful island guide to fully prepare you for your visit, with your pet in tow.
Read our dog-friendly blog here.
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The Chelsea flower show, which the Queen has attended on more than 50 occasions during her reign this year features displays to celebrate her 70 years on the throne, including a floral sculptural portrait in the official platinum jubilee shade of purple. Our very own award-winning gardens at Tresco Abbey boast some 20,000 plants from more than 80 countries, cultivated and curated since the 19th century. Located on the Duchy owned island of Tresco, it’s a spectacular example with its incredible array of exotic plants, a wonderland of beauty, cast out on an island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Explore Tresco Abbey Garden
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You may have seen the Queen attend Chelsea Flower Show, in style, in a buggy! But it's not just Her Majesty who benefits from the aid of a cart! It’s a totally fun, easy, and quick way to dart around the main island of St. Mary’s with friends, the kids and the rest of the family. Scilly Carts offer 2-, 4- and 6-seater electric options, with a daily range of 20-24 miles (that’s 3 times around the island!). It’s the perfect addition to a day trip to St. Mary’s or if it’s your first time here – you’ll get to know what’s what in no time at all!
Hire at Scilly Carts
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If you've ever wanted to holiday like a royal, the stunning six-bedroom Dolphin House located on Tresco - a popular royal choice - is available for the public to book. This idyllic island retreat is situated between Tresco Abbey Garden and Tresco Island Spa for the ultimate relaxation getaway. Tresco Island also offers a selection of self-catering, bed & breakfast, or half-board accommodation as well as specially tailored packages and Islandshare options.
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