Day Trips - in 3 Hours

It's amazing how much you can achieve in just 3 hours spent on Scilly; hop to an off island, take a tour or get your walking shoes on - you'll be spellbound, even in the brief time you're here. Check out these 3-hour suggestions across all 5 inhabited islands in the archipelago.

3 Hours on St. Mary's

Explore our heritage - Enjoy a guided tour by bus or taxi for a fantastic introduction to St. Mary’s or hire yourself a bike or golf buggy. Alternatively, stroll to the rocky outcrops and lighthouse at Peninnis Head, or head for the historic Garrison Walls for a slice of civil history.

Take to the water - be at one with the shimmering sea; on a sailing excursion or explore the myriad coves and islets by kayak or paddleboard. Or take the plunge into the cool, clear waters on a sea swim or coasteering trip.

Studios and Galleries galore - take a walk to St. Mary’s studios in Hugh Town, at Porthloo and Porthmellon. Soak in the views to appreciate why so many artists make Scilly their home. The island’s intensity of light and its changing moods have a beguiling effect on their work.

3 Hours on Tresco 

Abbey Garden Paradise - A trip to Tresco isn’t complete without exploring the stunning Tresco Abbey Garden and the impressive Valhalla Collection, set amidst a breathtaking landscape featuring over 20,000 plants from around the globe.

Explore the North - Head north and discover Tresco’s rugged side around the coast to Castle Down. Enjoy fantastic views of Round Island, Teän, St. Helen’s and Bryher. Explore the beautiful lichen flora and discover castle remains dating back to the English Civil War.

Picnic at Appletree Bay - You’d be hard pushed to find a finer beach than Appletree Bay on Tresco and an absolute joy that so often its beauty can be enjoyed unspoilt by anyone else. Treat yourself to some deli delights from Tresco Stores and head across the dunes for a truly special picnic.

3 Hours on St. Martin's

Hike to the Daymark - Walk the ridge of St. Martin’s and head beyond Higher Town to Chapel Down and the iconic red and white Daymark. Built in 1683 it stands 11 metres high on the highest point on the island and commands breath-taking views.

Life’s Simple Pleasures - St. Martin’s is a fabulous place for life’s simple pleasures. Enjoy the soft white sand between your toes, beachcomb for gorgeous cowrie treasures or simply dangle a fishing net off the end of a quay. Bliss.

Snorkel with Seals - Any review will reveal the same extraordinary, close-up encounters with these wonderfully playful underwater puppies. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the wild that’s not to be missed on Scilly.

3 Hours on Bryher

Breathe in the Atlantic - Walk on the wild wide of Bryher to Shipman Head on the north and western flanks. Feel the coastal path and rocks below tremble under thunderous waves pounding Hell Bay.

Stroll the white sands - Pad the powdery sands of Rushy Bay, beachcomb for cowries and dip your toes into the crystal blue waters as you drink in the views of Samson and St. Mary’s beyond.

Feast on the sea - Indulge in the island’s culinary delights. From cracking crabs, mighty mussels, lobster dogs and piping hot seafood paella, Bryher is the island for celebrating all things with shells!

3 Hours on St. Agnes

Walk the island - Step inside the tiny church with its stunning stained-glass windows depicting brave local seamen; marvel at the extraordinary rock formations on Wingletang Down, and skip around the stone maze on Castella Down, which was left by a lighthouse keeper centuries ago.

Gulls in their world - At low tide, take your binoculars and wander across to Gugh. Turn right and follow the path round the island. Witness Greater and Lesser Black Backed Gulls in their natural environment. But be aware, parts of Gugh are active breading grounds, so please watch out for protective parents and be mindful of where you go.

A creative community – Explore the many galleries, workshops and studios that are dotted across this tiny island and discover some of the wonderful art, craft and music produced by its talented and creative community.