Things to do on St. Mary's

One of the simplest pleasures on Scilly is to get out and explore – by foot, by bike, by bus, by taxi, by boat!  The easiest way to get about is on foot – there are some lovely, scenic coastal and inland walks. If you walk the entire coastline of St. Mary’s, you’re likely to cover some 9 or 10 miles depending on the tide!

If you rather rest your legs, then hire a golf buggy for the day or some bikes (electric options are available, as are tag-alongs, tandems and trailers). You can also enjoy a guided mini-bus tour which runs twice daily. If you’re feeling active, why not ride or sail around St. Mary’s? Book a pony trek for a lovely ride on the beach or hire a kayak or dinghy to explore some of the quieter spots and enjoy a different island perspective. 

From walking through elm tree woods, discovering our Bronze Age monuments, finding a sheltered cove for a wild swim or enjoying our talented artists, make sure you make the most of St. Mary’s.

Explore the heritage

The Isles of Scilly hold the greatest density of archaeological sites anywhere in Britain and English Heritage has identified almost 300 sites as Scheduled Ancient Monuments.

Visitors can walk in the steps of the islanders’ ancestors - joining archaeological walks across all the islands, including uninhabited ones, with expert guides leading the way. Or why not join Scilly’s friendly archaeological group on a voyage of ancient discovery; you never know what you might find!

“There are thousands of burial chambers and pre-historic sites all over Scilly – you can easily stumble upon them when you’re not really looking. This place is every archaeologist’s paradise” says Dr Katharine Sawyer, resident Archaeologist and Scilly Walks guide.

A guided tour by bus or on foot is a fantastic introduction to St. Mary’s. Alternatively, hire yourself a bike or golf buggy or just take a stroll to the rocky outcrops and lighthouse at Peninnis Head for the historic Garrison Walls for a slice of civil history.

To top off an evening, head for the depths of the Star Castle Hotel, and enjoy a nightcap in the Dungeon Bar. 400 years ago, it incarcerated some of the most notorious prisoners in the country.

Artists & Galleries

Take a walk to St. Mary’s studios and galleries in Hugh Town, at Porthloo, Old Town and Porthmellon. Soak in the views to appreciate why so many artists make Scilly their home.

The Isles of Scilly are a magnet for artists and creative souls. They’re lured to the islands by the rich intensity of light and its ever-changing effect on seascapes and landscapes. Each island has galleries to browse and enjoy; each has artists working in a variety of media – from oil, watercolours, jewellery making and beachcombed shells, felting and weaving to exquisite stained glass, fired earthenware, and screen printing.

Adventures above and below the waves

Scilly is a playground of activities - have a go at kayaking, sailing or paddleboarding; coasteer our coastline if you dare or venture out for a guided sea swim.