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Island life

5 top beaches on the Isles of Scilly

Long coastal walks, leisurely paddles between the bays and a foodie’s paradise, there’s no doubt about it the Isles of Scilly have plenty to offer and some of the most sought-after beaches in the UK. In case you need any more persuading, we’ve pulled together our top five beaches across the islands. Great Bay, St.…

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A picture of the past

For more than 100 years, Gibson family photographers have documented life on Scilly, as well as recording the steady growth of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company. We caught up with Sandra Kyne, daughter of Frank Gibson, to find out more about how the Group’s rich history has formed a key part of the Gibson…

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The perfect day trip to the Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are waiting to be discovered right on your doorstep – so grab your camera and come aboard for a day trip like no other. Make the most of every moment… Sailing to the Isles of Scilly takes just under three hours and is a fantastic way to escape the every day.…

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Island life

On your marks, get set, GIG!

Isles of Scilly Travel have been proud sponsors of the World Pilot Gig Championships for 28 years. It’s time for the 28th World Pilot Gig Championships – one of the biggest events here on the Isles of Scilly – and as the official sponsors we couldn’t be more excited. Across three days, around 130 teams…

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All aboard!

It’s been another winter of hard work for the Scillonian III team, preparing our iconic ship for her 40th year of service. Every year at the end of the season (November) Scillonian goes into the Dry Dock, Penzance, for her annual maintenance. You may think the Scillonian crew get to have the winter off but…

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Step into Spring

Shake off the winter as Spring is on the way! Over on the Isles of Scilly, the famous scented Narcissi are in full bloom, the yellow flowering gorse fills the air with its heady coconut scent, and the migrating seabirds have started to return -Puffins, Petrels and Shearwaters appear around the islands. Here in Penzance,…

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One-day escape or a longer break?

There are lots of events to look forward to this year on the Isles of Scilly. Aside from the picturesque beaches, sweeping green hills and stunning skies, there’s lots to do on the Isles of Scilly. With foodie feasts, world championship qualifiers, folk festivals and walking festivals; there’s plenty to entertain the whole family. We’ve…

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Discover the destination on your doorstep

The Isles of Scilly may feel like a world away from anywhere else in England but it’s so easy to discover this incredible destination with Skybus flights from Exeter Airport taking less than an hour to reach Cornwall’s Caribbean. The journey is all part of the adventure when you visit the Isles of Scilly, a…

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Discover an island paradise just 28 miles off the Cornish Coast

Book with Isles of Scilly Travel to visit the island paradise off the Cornish Coast in 2017… With Skybus flights from Exeter, Newquay and Land’s End Airports reaching the Isles of Scilly in under an hour, it’s tantalisingly easy to discover everything this magical cluster of islands has to offer. Fly to Scilly, or opt…

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Island Paradise

“You’ll discover largely deserted stretches of fine white sand beaches and sparkling crystal-clear azure waters reminiscent of the Caribbean…” Discover the destination on your doorstep this year and fly to the Isles of Scilly with Skybus in less than an hour. Flights leave from Exeter, Newquay and Land’s End Airport to reach this breathtakingly beautiful…

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Skybus: The fastest way to reach the Isles of Scilly

Flying with Skybus is a truly unique experience, whether it’s the personal welcome from your pilot as you are greeted before you board or the awe-inspiring views of the Devon and Cornwall coastline from the window; it’s the only plane journey you’ll be wishing took longer. Skybus operates all year round from Land’s End and…

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Island life

Soak up the sight of the Isles of Scilly

From take-off to landing, there’s always a view to remember on offer through the window of a Skybus plane or from the deck of the Scillonian passenger ferry. Travel by air or sea with Isles of Scilly Travel, and you’ll gain a whole new perspective of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Sail from Penzance…

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My Isles of Scilly

Planes, boats and trains- a peek behind the scenes at Isles of Scilly Travel

Native Scillonian Ken Simpson grew up dreaming of a job in transport. Now he has been part the St. Mary’s airport team longer than anyone else, he tells us what’s changed over the years. “I was born in St. Mary’s at the end of the war- I still remember rationing and taking the ration book…

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A look back at the 2016 Scillonian sailing season

We’ve enjoyed another wonderful season sailing daily from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly, spotting an array of spectacular wildlife along the way. Dolphins, porpoises and sunfish to name just a few have made regular sightings. We’ve seen some outstanding sunrises, sunsets and sun filled days; the islands have had a wonderful season with some…

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Activity guides

Autumn day trips to the Isles of Scilly

Set sail from Penzance and arrive to the Isles of Scilly by lunchtime. On your way, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy a stunning seaside view of Cornwall’s quaint fishing villages, the famous open air Minack Theatre and the Land’s End Peninsula. We’ve pulled together our top five-day trip experiences to be had on…

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The Isles of Scilly Museum

Our own team voted this the islands’ best way to spend a rainy day. The museum is full of curiosities, pictures and finds from shipwrecks, giving you a glimpse of daily life on Scilly from Roman times to the present day. It’s open all year round. Church Street, Hugh Town, St. Mary’s 01720 422337

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Holy Vale Vineyard tour

Nestling in the middle of the island, St. Mary’s own vineyard and winery opens its doors from April until September for tours, lobster lunches… and wine tasting, of course. It’s a good idea to book in advance. Holy Vale, St. Mary’s 01720 420317

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Hire a golf buggy

If walking and cycling seem a bit energetic, a golf buggy is a fun, easy way to explore the island in comfort. It’s something out of the ordinary for the whole family – and up to eight can ride – but be aware there are age limits on who can drive. The Scilly Cart Co,…

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Kings of the castle

Parents with young children need no introduction to soft play as an all-weather lifesaver. In Old Town, Kings of the Castle is suitable for children up to eight, with a multi-level play frame, ball pool, baby and toddler area and café. Old Town, St. Mary’s 07981 133210

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The Island Rover guided bus tour

In just 75 minutes, the Island Rover will introduce you to the highlights of St. Mary’s – with a full commentary, giving you a local’s perspective. There’s no booking necessary; just meet at Holgate’s Green at 10:15 am or 1:30 pm, from Monday to Saturday. Holgate’s Green, St. Mary’s 01720 422131 Note: the tour is…

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Go island hopping

Every visitor to Scilly finds their own favourite island – and exploring them couldn’t be easier. Look out for the chalk boards on the quayside with the sailing times to another island, or book a round trip to see the sights and wildlife. St. Mary’s Boatmen’s Association 01720 423999

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Phoenix craft workshops

Every weekday afternoon, the popular Phoenix craft studios give you a chance to try your hand at a craft – it might be stained glass painting, lino printing, jewellery making or painting. The workshops are very popular with children, but everyone’s welcome; call to book a day in advance. Porthmellon Business Park, St. Mary’s 01720…

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Play the most south-westerly course

St. Mary’s golf course, at the Isles of Scilly Golf Club, is a challenging, 5,942-yard beauty. But be warned, the panoramic sea views across to other islands could well distract you from your swing. There are drinks and home-cooked food at the clubhouse, too. Carn Morval, St. Mary’s 01720 422692

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Take a ride around the island

With largely traffic-free roads and gentle slopes, the Isles of Scilly are perfect for exploring under pedal power. Even on the larger islands, it’s quick and easy to take a leisurely ride around. There’s a choice of bikes for hire – and they can be delivered to other islands for longer bookings. St. Mary’s Bike…

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Tour St. Mary’s on foot

St. Mary’s is criss-crossed by 30 miles of nature trails, paths and other walking routes. Local experts offer guided tours of the island’s abundant nature, archaeology and bird life – while the Tourist Information Centre on Porthcressa Beach can give you maps, guides and friendly advice. Ornithologist and naturalist: Will Wagstaff 01720 422212 (March-October) Archaeologist…

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Sailing, kayaking, windsurfing and more

Clear waters and sheltered bays make Scilly an ideal place to learn to sail, windsurf or stand-up paddle board. The Isles of Scilly Sailing Centre provides tuition and taster sessions – as well as hire, if you’re more experienced, or simply want to kayak across to a deserted island of your own. Porthmellon, St. Mary’s…

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Head out on horseback

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding across a white, island beach, this is your chance. St. Mary’s Riding Centre is approved by the British Horse Society, with friendly instructors and horses to suit beginners and experienced equestrians alike. Maypole, St. Mary’s 01720 423855 claire@horsesonscilly.co.uk

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Activity guides

Top 10 things to do and see on your #IslandEscape

The Isles of Scilly are famous for their white sandy beaches and azure blue sea’s but relaxing on the beach isn’t the only thing to do on your island escape. We’ve pulled together a list of a whole host of activities waiting to be explored… 01: ISLAND HOPPING. There aren’t many destinations in the world…

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Island life

A portrait of island life

Every year visitors return to the Isles of Scilly, something about the pace of life and welcoming community keeps drawing them to return to the islands year after year.

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Island life

Your wildlife checklist

  We’ve pulled together a wildlife checklist- how many can you spot during your holiday? Kittiwake: The Kittiwake, sometimes referred to as the true seagull due to the fact they only ever come in land to breed. They nest in colonies on cliff tops and rock ledges from February-August. Manx Shearwater: Manx shearwaters spend most…

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