Making Memories

Things to do on Tresco

Tresco effortlessly blends sophistication with relaxation, offering a subtropical escape anchored by the world-renowned Tresco Abbey Garden. This 17-acre oasis boasts an impressive collection of exotic plants from across the globe, making it a paradise for horticultural enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Wander through its stunning terraces, where you'll encounter 20,000 plant and flower species from all corners of the world.

Afterward, slip off your shoes and enjoy a leisurely walk along the island’s pristine white-sand beaches, including Pentle Bay and Appletree Bay, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. You can also rent a bike to explore Tresco's tranquil lanes, scenic vistas, and tucked-away spots at your own pace. Challenge yourself with a climb up one of the island’s three castle ruins, venture to the rugged northern coast, or enjoy birdwatching at the freshwater pools.

For a more active adventure, borrow a boat, kayak, or windsurfing gear from the island’s sailing club. When you’re ready to unwind, indulge in some relaxation at the island’s luxurious spa.

Your adventure starts here Discover Tresco

Gallery Tresco

The finest art gallery on the Isles of Scilly nestles on the shoreline of New Grimsby harbour, Tresco. This converted pilot gig shed now hosts art by some of Cornwall's most established artists, as well as a selection of unique giftware inspired by the islands. Since opening…

Ruin Beach Cafe

Tresco’s wonderfully laid back vibe meets modern, Mediterranean-inspired beachfront dining with dishes fresh from the wood fired oven. Serving lunch and dinner throughout the season, The Ruin is the perfect place to enjoy a long and lazy lunch, a glass of wine on the…

The Flying Boat Café & Deli

Start the day with fresh pastries and Bryher Bakes or an irresistible bacon brioche bap, an Abbey Garden mint tea, a fresh fruit smoothie or Cornish Origin coffee. For a leisurely brunch, explore our seasonal and locally-sourced menu; think baked St Ewe eggs with tomato and rose…

The New Inn

Tresco’s local, offering award-winning food and drink just a stone’s throw from New Grimsby quay... Enjoy the food from our AA rosette kitchen, relax in an armchair with a coffee, prop up the Driftwood Bar with the locals, enjoy occasional live music or simply grab an…

Tresco Abbey Garden

The sub-tropical Abbey Garden is a glorious exception; a perennial Kew without the glass, home to 20,000 plants from more than 80 countries, flourishing just 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall. The plants that thrive here wouldn't survive outdoors anywhere else in the UK…

Tresco Abbey Garden Café & Shop

Sitting on the fringe of Tresco Abbey Garden, the Garden Café is perfect for a morning coffee and cake or afternoon cream tea. The Garden Café sits at the entrance to the Abbey Garden but many visit just to enjoy a refreshment or light bite on a walk around the…

Tresco Bike Hire

Enjoy the freedom of the whole island with bike hire on Tresco Island... Two wheels must be one of the best ways to explore Tresco. With miles of quiet roads and dusty tracks to travel along, you can enjoy the freedom of the whole island. Whether you're staying on the island…

Tresco Island Spa

The Isles of Scilly's only spa, Tresco Island Spa complements Tresco's natural tonic – the ultimate destination to discover true relaxation and time to be. Our beautifully appointed Spa features an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and gym. We also…

Tresco Stores

From everyday essentials to the gourmet, our island Stores has all you need, whether you’re here for the day, or a longer stay. If you’re staying on Tresco, we have all you need to stock up your cupboards, from island milk and store-baked bread to Cornish fish…

Valhalla Museum

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. Over the years, many ships and lives have been lost on the rocky coasts of the Scillies…

Activities to Enjoy Things to Do

Gardens

Every walk on the Isles of Scilly reveals a stunning palette of colours, from the vibrant landscapes to the renowned…

Maritime History

The Isles of Scilly boast a rich maritime history, shaped by their strategic location and centuries of seafaring. From…

Walking

Walking the Isles of Scilly offers scenic coastal paths, stunning views, and peaceful trails across rugged landscapes…

Cycling

Cycling on the Isles of Scilly offers a peaceful experience with traffic-free roads that wind through stunning…

Guided Tours

From scenic island walks and archaeological discoveries to wildlife and marine adventures, including sunset excursions…

From those in the know A Local's Guide

Things to Do

Rainy Days on Scilly

  • 5 min read

No need to put your holiday on hold when the rain arrives on Scilly. Embrace the elements, don your…

Tom Matthews