2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the Isles of Scilly, with fresh ways to reach the islands, new experiences to enjoy, and special celebrations to mark. From expanded travel options and a brand-new helicopter service to beachside food huts, guided walks, and island adventures, there’s more than ever to explore. Whether it’s a scenic flight across turquoise waters, a relaxed lunch on soft sand, or a sunrise stroll along a hidden coastal path, the islands are ready to surprise and delight visitors old and new alike.
Walk Scilly Festival - Celebrating 20 Years of Island Steps
One of the most anticipated highlights of 2026 is the Walk Scilly Festival's 20th anniversary. Every April, as the landscape greys into green and rare flowers begin to bloom, passionate walkers gather for a spectacular programme of guided walks across multiple islands.
This year is extra special - a two-decade celebration of stride and story. From coastal paths that trace ancient smugglers’ routes to hidden coves that only those on foot ever discover, Walk Scilly is a festival of wonder that stirs all the senses: the click of boots on grassy ridges, the swirl of seabirds against a turquoise sky, and the soft hush of friendly conversation over a lunch shared on a dune.
Whether you choose a gentle wander beneath early‑spring skies or take on one of the long‑distance walks that link several islands, this anniversary year deepens the connection between place and people. Mark your calendars for this epic event!
Explore more events happening across the islands this year in our events calendar on our What's On page here.
Travel Discounts
Penzance Helicopters: Use the code WALKSCILLY26 for 10% off travel between 09/04/2026 and 20/04/26.
Isles of Scilly Travel: Use the code WKSC0426 for 10% off travel between 09/04/26 and 19/04/26 (Penzance and Land’s End routes only).
Image Credit: Walk Scilly Festival
Flying into 2026 with Penzance Helicopters: New Helicopter, New Deals
Penzance Helicopters is heading into 2026 with exciting momentum, continuing to offer one of the most memorable ways to reach the Isles of Scilly. This year sees the addition of a new helicopter to the fleet, G-SMRY, now flying regular services between Penzance, St. Mary’s and Tresco - helping to keep journeys smooth, reliable and scenic for both islanders and visitors alike.
Don't forget to keep an eye out for discounts when travelling with Penzance Helicopters for events like the Walk Scilly Festival, Taste of Scilly Festival and the Low Tide Event, as well as many more. Throughout the year, they work closely with island hotels and local partners to offer special deals on helicopter travel, alongside discounts for island residents, students and members of the Island Travel Club. It’s always worth checking what’s available when planning your trip - a saving on your journey could mean an extra meal out, boat trip or beach day once you arrive.
Penzance Helicopters continues to play an important role in island life - supporting year-round travel, working closely with local businesses and helping keep the islands connected. For visitors, it means peace of mind, breathtaking aerial views, and the same warm welcome as ever when stepping onto island soil.
Learn more about how to get here with our Travel & Info page here.
Image Credit: Penzance Helicopters
The Grub Hut - A New Falafel Bar!
Follow the enticing aromas along Porthcressa Beach on St. Mary's to find The Grub Hut with its Moroccan tiled interior and flavour-packed meals!
The Grub Hut is a dedicated takeaway serving pitta breads and salad boxes stuffed with homemade crispy falafel balls or slow-roasted Moroccan spiced lamb, with a selection of freshly prepared salads and sauces. All their food is made on the premises, and every meal is prepared fresh to order. They have a dedicated gluten-free station, a range of soft and alcoholic drinks and ice cream from St. Agnes. In the summer, they also offer children’s picnic boxes! Why not add The Grub Hut to your itinerary on your next visit to the Isles of Scilly?
Opening hours and other details can be found on Facebook @TheGrubHut and on Instagram @the__grub__hut.
Explore more delicious food and drink offerings across our islands here.
Image Credit - The Grub Hut
Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future with Isles of Scilly Travel
2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group. After five decades of service, Scillonian III will take her final bow later this year, paving the way for the highly anticipated Scillonian IV in 2027. This state-of-the-art new ferry will bring improved passenger comfort and increased capacity, enhancing the travel experience for future generations of visitors to the islands.
There’s also welcome news in the skies. Skybus has expanded its network with the launch of its new route between Newquay and London Gatwick, meaning you can travel from the capital to the islands in just over three hours, giving visitors greater choice and more flexibility than ever.
Together, these exciting developments highlight a year of progress, investment and renewal - honouring trusted service while embracing what’s next in 2026.
However you choose to travel to the Isles of Scilly, they can’t wait to welcome you.
Image Credit: Scillonian IV - Isles of Scilly Travel
A New Cultural Chapter for the Isles of Scilly
There’s lots to look forward to on the cultural front, with exciting plans underway for the incredible new Isles of Scilly Museum and Cultural Centre set to open later this year in the former Town Hall on St. Mary’s. The state-of-the-art space will bring together a new museum sharing the islands’ stories, a 142-seat theatre and a brand new café.
In the meantime, visitors can enjoy a new installation by artist Dr Gemma Anderson-Tempini on Tresco in July, celebrating the island’s unique botanical hybrids, alongside pop-up exhibitions in the IOS Steamship Office on St. Mary’s and a programme of performances and events taking place across the islands this summer. Find out more about the Isles of Scilly Museum and Cultural Centre here.
Explore what else you can experience on the islands this year here.
Image Credit: Isles of Scilly Museum and Cultural Centre
