An island of vibrant contrasts

Bryher

Pounded by Atlantic waves on one side, yet blessed with calm sandy beaches on the other, Bryher is an island of dramatic contrast - the perfect place to enjoy a taste of untamed Scilly. Around 80 people are lucky enough to call it home.

Bryher's fame extends far beyond Scilly's shores: the luxurious Hell Bay hotel has won many an award. The little island is also the setting of the film, "When the Whales Came", based on Michael Morpurgo's novel inspired by the island. Samson Hill on the southern end of the island was the site of the birdman's cottage.

Whether you're exploring rocky coves, lazing on white sandy beaches or hiking up one of its small granite hills for some great views, Bryher serves up a wonderful sense of freedom and purity. You can admire the granite stacks on Shipman Head - and get up close at low tide if you're happy to scramble the rocks; you can watch the Atlantic rollers thunder into Hell Bay (spectacular in winter!), and you can enjoy the calm and tranquillity of Rushy Bay overlooking Samson.

The entire island is criss-crossed by tracks and dotted with stalls selling fresh produce including farm eggs, local vegetables, freshly landed seafood and mouth-watering island fudge.

The Bryher Shop is an excellent spot to purchase tasty treats such a tatty cake and freshly made bread as well as everything they need for a great holiday which, on request, can even be delivered in advance to your accommodation.

Right next door to the shop is Bryher Gallery - a friendly independent space showcasing local and Cornish artisans including a range of original paintings by artists such as Bryher’s own Richard Pearce.

Hut 62 offers boats and kayaks for hire, and you can get chandlery supplies from Bennett Boatyard.

There are also a number of eateries, including the Hell Bay Hotel, The Crab Shack, Olivia's Kitchen and Fraggle Rock, one of Britain's smallest bars, offering sumptuous lunches and suppers, light snacks and cream teas.

Things to Do on Bryher

On Bryher, explore rugged cliffs and pristine beaches, perfect for hiking, swimming…

Victoria Walker

Places to Stay on Bryher

Indulge in luxury at the Hell Bay Hotel, or experience the great outdoors by camping…

Food & Drink on Bryher

Bryher offers a range of dining experiences, from a cosy tearoom and a lively island…

Bryher

Winter Writing from a Small Island

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Winter reflections from a small island in the heart of the Atlantic. Discover how Bryher Ruth captures the mood, haunting stories, and life of a…

Things to Do

An Autumn Sea Swim Adventure

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Accommodation

Your Cool Camping Guide To Scilly

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Sleep under the stars, wake to sea views, and explore untamed island beauty - camping on the Isles…

Events

Exploring Walk Scilly with Blundstone UK

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This year’s Walk Scilly Festival welcomed a special guest - Blundstone UK ambassador and…

Exploring Walk Scilly with Blundstone UK

Events

SS Schiller: 150 Years On

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This May marks the 150th anniversary of one of the most tragic maritime disasters in Scilly’s…

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Aquatic Escapes Not To Miss

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Explore Scilly’s vibrant outdoor spirit – ideal for adventurous couples and friends…

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10 Ways to Nourish Your Soul in 2025

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Lighting the way: lighthouses on Scilly

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One of the first things you’ll notice when you arrive in the Isles of Scilly is the striking…

Endurance Events

The history of our pilot gigs

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Back in the mid-19th Century, around 200 men worked as pilots on the Isles of Scilly. Today, gigs…

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The Puffins Return

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One of Scilly’s most popular seabirds, the puffins, are back on the islands, and…

Nature

Drawn to the Seas Around Scilly

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A feeling - a sense of something special. Experience the Isles with award-winning writer Wyl…

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An Island Garden

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Makers & Galleries

3 min read

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Food & Drink

Growers & Producers

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Savour an intriguing tipple or tasty treat, fill your home with the fragrance of handpicked, scented…

Creative Scilly Festival

May 18, 2025 - May 28, 2025

Whether you're a seasoned artist or just looking to explore something new, this year’s Creative Scilly Festival…

May 18

Ocean Scilly Festival

Aug 23, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025

Join us for our 2nd Ocean Scilly, a nautical event celebrating the seas that surround the Isles of Scilly…

Aug 23

Taste of Scilly Festival

Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025

Taste of Scilly 2025 Indulge in the exquisite flavours of Scilly with this 11-day food and drink celebration, featuring…

Sep 12

Walk Scilly Festival

Apr 10, 2026 - Apr 19, 2026

The Walk Scilly Festival is an incredible opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the…

Apr 10

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Explore the uninhabited islands of the Isles of Scilly, where some hold traces of past communities, and others remain untouched sanctuaries for birds and wildlife. These islands offer a unique blend of history, mystery, and unspoiled natural beauty.

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An island of vibrant contrasts

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