Options for your

TRAVEL

Q: What's the best time of year to visit the islands?

Spring (March to May) is great for flower enthusiasts, especially for the famous narcissi. Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and water sports. Autumn (September to November) offers fewer crowds, good weather for walking, and birdwatching opportunities. Winter (December to February) is the quietest time, perfect for a peaceful retreat, though some services may be limited. View Answer

Q: How do I travel to the Isles of Scilly?

By Ferry : The most popular way to travel is by ferry from Penzance (mainland Cornwall) to St. Mary's . The Scillonian III operates daily services from March to November, weather permitting. By Air : Flights from Land’s End (all-year-round), Newquay and Exeter airports to St. Mary's . The flights are operated by Skybus . By Helicopter : Penzance Helicopters operates a service from Penzance Heliport to St. Mary’s and Tresco . View Answer

Isles of Scilly Intro Map Journeying to Scilly is an adventure in itself, filled with mesmerising views and the excitement of reaching a truly special destination.

Whether you fly by Skybus, Penzance Helicopter, or travel by sea on board the Scillonian III passenger ferry, or as part of a cruise - you know immediately that you're heading for somewhere very special. Even seasoned travellers and returning residents feel their pulses quicken as they approach the island archipelago - so imagine what it must be like if you've never done it before! Getting to Scilly is an adventure. It's unique. It's part of your holiday experience.

Of course, you can also choose to arrive here under your own steam – in a private plane or yacht. Both the St. Mary's Harbour Master's Office and Isles of Scilly Airport welcome independent travellers to the islands and will assist you with your plans before you depart and upon your arrival.

However you choose to travel to the Isles of Scilly, you'll be able to enjoy spectacular views of England's dramatic southwest coastline before the remote beauty of the islands unfolds.

How to Get Here

Whether you arrive by Penzance Helicopter, Skybus, the Scillonian III, or a cruise, you’ll immediately feel that you’re heading somewhere…

Couple waiting to board Skybus at Land's End Airport

Isles of Scilly Travel

Getting Around

Getting around the Isles of Scilly is an adventure in itself, with plenty of opportunities to explore both the inhabited and uninhabited islands. With…

Richard Bateman

Visitor Information

Welcome to the award-winning Isles of Scilly Tourist Information Centre. From helping you plan your visit to reliving your memories once…

Maps & Guides

Preparation is key when visiting somewhere new, and our easy-to-follow maps and guides offer helpful information and inspiration for your next visit…

FAQs

Find everything you need to know about the Isles of Scilly with our frequently asked questions. From travel tips to island activities, we've got…

Brandy Moore

Newsletter Sign-up

Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on the latest news, competitions, and exciting developments from the Isles of Scilly. Be the first to know…

Karma Group

Accessible Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly is becoming increasingly accessible for all visitors. From travel to accommodation, efforts are made to ensure that everyone can…

Weather

The Isles of Scilly, situated 28 miles off the Cornish coast, experience a mild maritime climate throughout the year, thanks to the surrounding sea…

Skybus

Flying by Skybus is one of the quickest ways to get to the Isles of Scilly. Start…

Penzance Helicopters

Flying to St. Mary’s and Tresco, Penzance Helicopters is the fastest…

Scillonian III Passenger Ferry

Setting sail from Penzance harbour, the journey takes two hours and forty minutes…

Comprehensive Travel Support

Your journey from the mainland to the islands should be smooth, serene, and exactly as you imagined. That’s why we’ve partnered with some trusted travel providers to assist you every step of the way - from mainland taxis and transfers to your local airport, to crossing the ocean and reaching your accommodation. If you have any questions, just contact us!

Tresco Jet Boat — The Isles of Scilly form an archipelago of five inhabited islands and other small rocky islets (around 140 in total). Troytown Farm on St. Agnes is the southernmost settlement of the United Kingdom.

What is the cheapest way to travel to Scilly?

The most affordable way to travel to the Isles of Scilly is by taking the passenger ferry from Penzance. This scenic journey takes just under three hours and is a popular alternative to faster flights with Penzance Helicopters or Skybus. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly travel or a picturesque trip across the sea, the Penzance ferry offers a memorable start to your Isles of Scilly adventure.

Can I bring my car to the islands?

No, there is no car ferry, and the islands are small and accessible. There are cars on St. Mary's (the largest island) and they belong to the residents. The other inhabited islands have virtually no vehicles other than a few farm vehicles/pickup trucks. If you want a convenient way to get around, you can hire a golf buggy, bicycle, taxi, or use the community bus (seasonal).

What's the best time of year to visit the islands?

Spring (March to May) is great for flower enthusiasts, especially for the famous narcissi.
Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and water sports.
Autumn (September to November) offers fewer crowds, good weather for walking, and birdwatching opportunities.
Winter (December to February) is the quietest time, perfect for a peaceful retreat, though some services may be limited.

How do I travel to the Isles of Scilly?

By Ferry: The most popular way to travel is by ferry from Penzance (mainland Cornwall) to St. Mary's. The Scillonian III operates daily services from March to November, weather permitting.
By Air: Flights from Land’s End (all-year-round), Newquay and Exeter airports to St. Mary's. The flights are operated by Skybus.
By Helicopter: Penzance Helicopters operates a service from Penzance Heliport to St. Mary’s and Tresco.