From those in the Know

A Local's Guide

Discover the Magic of the Isles of Scilly through our ambassadors and loyal visitors who share their top tips and insider knowledge, along with their enthused passion for our tiny corner of the world. So, whether it’s an inaugural trip, or you’re practically a local, start exploring Scilly through the eyes of others and their wondrous island-hopping voyages: walking the isles, dining in style, discovering a cosy bolthole, finding the perfect beach or whiling away the hours, learning something new.  

There’s always something alternative, fun and exciting to discover on this tiny archipelago, set in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Rainy Days on Scilly

No need to put your holiday on hold when the rain arrives on Scilly. Embrace the elements, don your waterproofs, and set off to explore - just be sure to plan a tasty pitstop along the way! If you decide to put a pause to outdoor adventures, take the opportunity to savour the pitapatting with a…

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Winter Writing from a Small Island

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 close-knit community during the winter months. I like to think and write to the rhythm of walking, but during the summer taking time in my day for this is…

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A Birdlife Haven

Lucy McRobert, formerly of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, shares her expertise on what makes these islands a birdwatcher’s paradise. Scilly’s position on the wild Atlantic edge has made it mecca for birdwatchers since the 1960s. This island chain is perfectly located to capture American species…

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Your unrivalled view to the stars

In the midst of a bright Scilly Summer, what do us island-based astronomers long for? Dark skies! Discover why astronomers and islanders alike can't wait for autumn. Amid a bright Scilly Summer, what do us island-based astronomers long for? Dark skies! True, it takes a while to get magnificently…

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Scilly's Hidden History

Island archaeologist Dr Katharine Sawyer unveils Scilly’s fascinating pre-historic past dating back some 8,000 years. Scilly was first visited by hunter gatherers a few thousand years ago – around 6,000BC to be a little more precise. Back then it was a seasonal affair, with Mesolithic occupants…

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An Autumn Sea Swim Adventure

Wild sea swimming isn't limited to any time of the year - in fact, every season offers a uniquely different experience, as does every island across the Isles of Scilly. A swim in the wild waters around Bryher inspires the soul and lifts the heart at any time of the year, but for me autumn holds a…

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A Potted History of Tresco Island

Explore the world-famous Tresco Abbey Garden on the Isles of Scilly, home to over 20,000 exotic plants from 80 countries, historic ruins, and stunning terraces sheltered from Atlantic gales. A true sub-tropical paradise year-round. Many will know of the Isles of Scilly because of the world famous…

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A Trip to Bishop Rock

Four miles west of the Isles of Scilly in the Atlantic Ocean stands Bishop Rock Lighthouse, built in 1858 to mark a rock ledge 45 metres long and 16 metres wide – the islands’ most westerly danger. Statuesque and majestic, it stands at the very edge of England – a pillar of strength that now…

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