isles of scilly travel transfers

Island Transfers

Scilly’s sole airport transport provider

ISLAND TRANSFERS FOR

We meet every Skybus & Penzance Helicopters arrival at St Mary's Airport

Our friendly and welcoming drivers will be there to help with your luggage, we offer transfers to your accommodation anywhere on the island of st mary's..., ... or can take you to st mary's quay for boats to tresco, st martin's, st agnes & bryher.

The start to your holiday

A proper island welcome.

From the moment you arrive at St Mary’s Airport, we’re there to ensure the last step of your journey is hassle-free. Whether you’re arriving by helicopter or plane; staying on St Mary’s or heading to an off-island, we’ll provide a proper welcome to the Isles of Scilly.

Island Transfers launched in autumn 2022 to provide all airport transfers for the Isles of Scilly. However, we’re far from new to providing airport transfers on the islands.

Owner Delwin Thompson will be a familiar face to most who have arrived on the islands over the last 25 years, from providing heliport transfers in the days of the former helicopter service to exclusive Tresco transfers; Penzance Helicopter transfers from 2020 and now Skybus transfers too since December 2022. 

We’re trusted as the sole airport transfers’ provider on St Mary’s.

One thing has remained consistent over those 25 years: our unfailing commitment to meeting all passengers with a warm welcome, a friendly smile, and a helping hand.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Isles of Scilly!

FOR THE ORGANISED…

Arranging your transfers.

We meet every flight that arrives on St Mary’s, so there’s no need to make a booking in advance. Our clearly uniformed drivers will meet you in Arrivals, direct you to our vehicle, help with your luggage, and whisk you on your way.

When we reach your accommodation, we’ll make the necessary arrangements to collect you in perfect time for your return flight.

 However, we understand sometimes it’s good to know everything’s organised, so you’re welcome to let us know your travel details in advance for peace of mind by clicking below – if you wish.

01720 422126

07789 296218

[email protected]

Comfort & accessibility

We’ve carefully chosen our fleet of minibuses to ensure we can get you where you need to go in comfort, safety and style…

Our fleet is modern and carefully cared for and selected to ensure safety and accessibility. Our vehicles are fully equipped with height-adjustable seat belts for passengers of all ages and are serviced and maintained to the highest standards.

We’re also working on going greener over the coming years. Our new buses are either Electric Vehicles or use the latest low-emissions Diesel engines. As we replace our fleet over the coming years, we’ll be working hard to continue minimising our environmental impact.

Vauxhall Vivaro EV

We have one Vauxhall Vivaro Electric Vehicle, which carries up to six passengers in comfort and style in leather seats with a panoramic sunroof giving a feeling of space and luxury. The sliding doors give ease of access, and the small vehicle size means we can reach all areas of St Mary’s, including through the narrow Garrison archway. We’re proud that this vehicle is 100% electric.

Citroen Relay

Our three Citroen Relay minibuses are our largest vehicles, able to carry up to thirteen passengers with luggage. These vehicles include extra features to enhance accessibility, such as large sliding doors with retractable steps, additional grab handles and enhanced interior lighting. Being brand new, these diesel vehicles meet the latest European emissions standards, helping keep Scilly’s air clean.

SIMPLE & FAIR

Our 2024 prices.

£6.00 Single £12.00 Return

ChildREN (Under 12)

£3.50 Single £6.00 Return

Babies & Toddlers (Under 3)

Find out more, frequently asked questions, do i need to book in advance.

Not for your arrival on St Mary’s – we meet every flight arrival. You will need to book your departure pickup, so we know when and where to collect you. We will arrange this upon arrival and give you a handy reminder card.

Which flights do you meet?

We are the sole transfers provider on St Mary’s for Skybus and Penzance Helicopters and we meet all their flights.

What happens when I arrive at St Mary’s Airport?

Our friendly drivers will meet you in the small Arrivals area (it’s tiny, so you’ll have no problem spotting us!) All our drivers wear uniforms, so they are easy to spot. They will assist you with your luggage to our minibus.

Will you take me right to my St Mary’s accommodation?

Wherever you’re staying on St Mary’s, we’ll take you right to your accommodation (we even have a special small minibus that can get through The Garrison arch!)

What if I’m staying on an off-island?

If you’re staying on Tresco, Bryher, St Martin’s or St Agnes, we will meet you at St Mary’s Airport and take you to the quay for your onward boat transfer (you’ll usually need to arrange this in advance with the relevant boat service).

Can you carry children? Do you have car seats?

We can carry all passengers, including babies, toddlers and young children. All our vehicles include height-adjustable seat belts.

Do you carry dogs and other pets?

Yes, we welcome dogs and other pets.

What if my flight is delayed?

We’re in regular contact with flight operators and always meet you on arrival, even if your flight is delayed.

On departure from the islands, we’ll still collect you at your pre-arranged departure time even if there are delays, as your flight operator will need you to wait at the airport. We know this can be frustrating, but it’s to allow flights to resume quickly if the weather clears.

If your flight is cancelled, please get in touch with us to let us know, and we’ll arrange to collect you for your new travel arrangements.

How do I pay?

We accept payment by card/contactless and in cash. You’re welcome to pay for a single journey if you wish, but booking a return is slightly cheaper.

Can I book you as a taxi during my stay?

As we’re busy with arrivals and departures throughout the day, we do not operate a general taxi service. There are two great Taxi companies on St Mary’s – Toots Taxi and DJ Cabs .

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Each and every scheduled flight that lands at the Isles of Scilly Airport is met by an airport shuttle bus.

Our friendly drivers will take you and your luggage to wherever you wish to go to on St. Mary’s, including to your accommodation or to the quayside for any onward boat connection to the off-islands.

A small charge is made for this service, and it is an excellent way to familiarise yourself with St. Mary’s on your arrival. Luke, Greg, Andy and Michel will point out key services and if you wish, they will also arrange a pick-up to for your return travel to the airport.

For guests staying on Tresco who booked through Tresco Estate the airport to quay transfer is pre-arranged.  

Alternatively, you can pre-book taxis to meet you from your flight for your onward travel.

Dial-a-Doux - 01720 421011 / 07799 242220

DJ Cabs - 01720 423775 / www.djcabs.co.uk

Toots Taxi - 01720 422142 / 07570 624669

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• Nov 8, 2022

How to get to the Isles of Scilly: By Air

Updated: Jul 3, 2023

There are multiple ways to get to the Isles of Scilly, the most popular being air travel. When travelling to the Scilly Isles via plane, you can fly from Exeter, Newquay or Lands End. The Skybus is a 16-seater plane with a dog box. They allow up to 15kg of luggage per person and a small cabin bag each.

In this article, we tell you how you can get to the Isles of Scilly by plane or helicopter and the pros and cons of each airport.

Lands End Airport is a 20-minute drive from Penzance. This airport is the cheapest way to fly via air to the islands and is perfect for those getting the train to Penzance. The Isles of Scilly Travel company offer bus transfers from Penzance Train Station and car parking at Lands End Airport.

How long is the flight?

The flight is 15 minutes long, so ideal for making the most of your time on the islands.

When can you fly?

Flights are usually each hour Monday-Saturday.

What does it cost?

Flights are from £121.50 for a standard ticket, £91.25 for a child ticket, £27.25 for an infant ticket and £46.75 for a dog ticket. They also offer day trip returns discounted from the usual ticket prices.

Newquay airport is 5 miles outside of Newquay central.

This is the perfect option if you're flying from the top of the country into Newquay and want to go straight to the islands. The Skybus flights line up with a lot of the UK domestic flights. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on flights from Newquay.

Car parking is available at Newquay airport; you can book this directly through the airport.

Please note there is airport security as usual at Newquay airport, so all liquids must be in a sealed clear bag.

The flight is 30 minutes long.

Flights from Newquay are limited, with planes only flying Monday, Friday and Saturday. There are usually 1-2 flights on the days of flying.

Flights range from £171.25 for a standard ticket to £128.50 for a child ticket and £44.00 for an infant ticket.

Exeter Airport is located 6 miles outside of Exeter central.

This airport is perfect if you want to avoid travelling down to Cornwall. Most UK airports fly to Exeter, so it's a great option if you want to fly direct to the UK. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on flights from Exeter.

Car parking is available at Exeter airport, which you can book directly through the airport.

Please note there is airport security as usual at Exeter airport, so all liquid need to be in a sealed clear bag.

The flight is an hour long.

Flights from Exeter are usually 2-3 times per day, Monday-Saturday.

Flights range from £236.50 for a standard ticket to £117.50 for a child ticket and £69.25 for an infant ticket.

Penzance Helicopter

When travelling to the Isles of Scilly via helicopter, the heliport is located in Penzance.

This mode of travel is the most reliable if fog is around. Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the helicopter. The helicopter is a twin-engine AW139 helicopter that seats up to 12 people and travels directly to St Mary's and Tresco.

There is a car park at the heliport, or they offer a shuttle bus from Penzance train station.

The flight duration is 15 minutes long.

Flights from Penzance heliport are usually every couple of hours, Monday-Saturday.

Flights are from £149.50 for a standard ticket.

Pros and cons of each airport

With all the different modes of transport, there is something to suit everyone. The one thing they all have in common is the undisturbed views of the ocean and islands - you might even see some dolphins!

Once you've confirmed your flights, remember to check out the beautiful accommodation in the Isles of Scilly - there's sure to be something that suits your travel requirements.

We hope that we've provided all you need to know about getting to the Isles of Scilly by air, but if not, please feel free to g et in touch with Scilly Escapes or leave your question in the comments section below.

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Isles of Scilly: discover the abundant joys of island life

Ramble, sail and feast your way around Scilly to experience a region like no other

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Stretches of white sand, clear turquoise blue water, and not another person in sight. That might sound like the blurb in a Caribbean island travel brochure, but save yourself the air miles and jet lag, because it can all be found just a short hop from mainland Cornwall. 

The bewitching landscapes of the Isles of Scilly offer a wonderful feeling of tranquillity and a total sense of escapism for those in the know. That's partly because time takes on a strangely elastic quality here – routines melt away, activities are leisurely, and an amble across an island can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on how willing the walker is to take a less well-trodden path.

That said, certain timings do punctuate the otherwise free-flowing days. Most important are the tides and passenger boat schedules, but there are the joys of meal-time hours to stick to, too – and while a trip to Scilly promises abundant opportunities for those seeking adventure, it also packs a punch for foodies craving a bit of indulgence.

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There's no better way to arrive at Scilly than via a scenic flight with Penzance Helicopters

Island-hopping is the order of the day on Scilly. We'd heard that each of the five inhabited islands has a fairly distinctive character, with something different to offer visitors. Many people we met had their favourite, but still wholeheartedly agreed that traversing the isles was the best way to get a feel for them. 

We didn't have time to make the trip to St Agnes (a very welcome reason for a return visit), but four days spent between St Mary's, Tresco, St Martin's and Bryher certainly provided a variety of scenery and experiences. So, be sure to check the boat times, pack a bag with supplies for both sunny and wet weather, and head to the quay in time to jump aboard a boat and head out to discover each island for yourself.

St Mary's The largest and most populated island, St Mary's is at the heart of much activity on Scilly. Penzance Helicopters zoom in and out of its airport, transporting tourists and residents to and from the mainland, while boats steer their way around the busy harbour, ferrying people back and forth to the other islands. 

St Mary's is much more than a handy launch pad, however. A walk around the Garrison provides views across Hugh Town and the island's plentiful greenery beyond, but it was the surrounding crystal waters that really appealed. 

With a fortuitous forecast on our side, The Sailing Centre soon sent us on our way in a kayak launched from Porthmellon Beach. Undeterred by our evidently novice abilities, Amelia helped us steer a steady course out into the bay, and (as a father-daughter crew primed for both a verbal and literal fall-out), it's safe to say our unscathed state when we returned surpassed everyone's expectations. The team also offers paddleboards, dinghies and sailboats, windsurfing and motor boats for hire, if the skies and your seafaring abilities allow.

Stop by The Sailing Centre to get out and about on the water

Over the road from Porthmellon is Phoenix Craft Studios , a lively hub of activity that's home to six local artists. Our visit fell during the Creative Scilly Festival, a nine-day annual celebration of the Isles of Scilly's abundant artistic talents, so we headed over to an open evening to meet the makers and see their impressive skills on display. We'd see their works crop up again on our travels in the following days – at a maker's market in Tresco, in galleries and even in a number of church windows, in the case of glass artist Oriel Hicks.

Tresco The second largest island, Tresco feels a world away from the hubbub of St Mary's. It's car-free, and with walkers, cyclists and the odd electric cart having free rein over the roads, the otherworldly low-level of background noise was a healing balm that this city-dweller didn't realise she so desperately needed. 

Hire bikes from the shed neighbouring Tresco Stores (provider of essential provisions and a post office) to explore the island's paved paths, switching to the sandier ones if you prefer more secluded bays for sun and sea bathing. It's a pleasant zip around the island, with places to park up should you fancy lunch, a shop or a swim. Things are so relaxed here, you won't even need a bike lock. 

Leave a few hours to get lost in the paths of Tresco Abbey Garden

The island's star attraction, Tresco Abbey Garden , can't be missed. Give yourself a few hours to explore these enchanting grounds, home to more than 2,000 exotic species from across the world and a number of red squirrels. A team of eight gardeners tend this subtropical oasis, which was first brought to life in the 19th century. Stop by the Valhalla Museum on your way out, too. It showcases 30 figureheads recovered from ships wrecked around Scilly – a display quite unlike anything I'd seen before.

St Martin's Visitors might find their time on Scilly a peaceful change of pace, but that's a stark contrast to the tireless energies of the thriving communities that are the islands' lifeblood. On St Martin's we chatted to several small business owners who showed us that island life isn't just days at the beach – though we were assured there's a fair bit of that too. 

First established in 1996, husband and wife team Holly and James are breathing fresh life into St Martin's Vineyard since taking it over four years ago. The pair have put sustainability at the heart of this impressive operation; it's run without fossil fuels and artificial chemicals – compost and seaweed do the heavy lifting instead. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the fields and an al fresco wine tasting in the charming garden. There's also beer, cider and liqueurs too, so leave space in your rucksack for a bottle or two to take home with you.

Stop at Fay Page's studio before heading over to St Martin's Vineyard to sample local wines

We walked along the so-called spine of the island to Lower Town, where Scilly superfans return to Fay Page jewellery year after year. Some add a new, beautifully crafted ornament to their signature charm bracelets, while others invest in an heirloom piece, or simply stop by to catch up with the team. Fay, her husband Rob, and the five silversmiths they have trained make the brand's products from their St Martin's workshop and the family's home, a converted former farmhouse and barn perched on a photogenic corner. It's also just by the Seven Stones Inn, a great pitstop for lunch. 

Up the road to Churchtown Farm, the Scilly Flowers team are busy producing and posting the islands' sweet pinks and narcissi across the UK. Scilly's flower growing industry began in the 19th century, and flourished thanks to the region's unique climate. It's a tradition continued today by growers and partners across the islands – we were told the oldest picker they work with is 98 years old – and gives visitors a way to share the magic of Scilly with friends and family at home, simply through a quick online order.

Bryher It probably took longer to board the Firethorn's passengers than for the boat to make the journey from Tresco to Bryher; the islands are so close that you can walk from one to the other at low tide. Runners who are up for a challenge can sign up to the Scilly 60 Tide Race this August, a half marathon between Tresco, Merrick and Bryher, with the added pressure of not getting cut off by the tides.

Bryher's dramatic landscape is a great source of inspiration for writers and painters alike

If Tresco feels calm, Byrher is serene. Home to fewer than 100 people, it's an island of rugged beauty, with wildflowers, toughened greenery and almost entirely deserted coves. Children's author Michael Morpurgo has visited the island each year for more than 45 years, he told the i news site in 2019, and has set several books here. It's easy to see where he gets his inspiration.  

Following the procession of visitors up from the quay, we headed for a foggy ramble around Samson Hill, and were rewarded with views across the island's dramatic landscape. Along the rocky island's edges and wild paths, we got a real sense of the contrasting terrain. And, just when we'd been totally absorbed and lost all sense of time and place, we'd stumble on a small business or artist's studio, a welcome reminder of the uniquely Scillonian spirit of those who live on the islands. 

Where to stay 

As Scilly first-timers, we found St Mary's an ideal starting point – and there's surely no better place to begin such a trip than Star Castle Hotel . Built on Garrison Hill in 1593, today's guests have a perfect vantage point across the isles and surrounding sea; sunset was a true treat. The hotel has 38 elegantly designed rooms, and guests can choose to stay in the gardens or in the castle itself, which is where we found ourselves. Our room was fantastically characterful, with a huge original fireplace, window seating with harbour views, and a sizeable en suite. It's safe to say I'd happily have not checked out had that been an option. 

Star Castle Hotel offers an unrivalled vantage point across Scilly

Dining at Star Castle is a must. Depending on room location, guests are served a hearty breakfast either in the conservatory restaurant or the castle dining room, with hot and cold dishes to set you up for the day. 

As we headed out, the team asked if we would like a lobster for dinner. I really had no choice but to say yes – and what a delight when dinner came around. Caught fresh each day by the hotel’s owner, Robert, and served as a starter or main, it's a showstopper. With a glass of champagne to accompany it, and a delicious duck breast to follow, I thought things couldn't get better. But they did: the evening was topped off with a locally distilled gin and tonic served in the dungeon bar – a far more welcoming watering hole now than it was for prisoners some 400 years ago.  

We jumped forward in time somewhat when we headed over to stay at The New Inn on Tresco. Its 16 rooms have recently been refurbished, and beautifully so. With a sea view from ours, decorated in calming blues, pinks and neutrals, it was a charming place to tuck ourselves away and refresh after a day of exploring, before we wined and dined the evenings away. 

Look forward to a luxurious level of comfort at Tresco's The New Inn

Luckily, we didn't need to wander too far for that. The New Inn is the island's local, with space for everyone that lives and stays on Tresco, it seems. That's not to say the space is crowded – rather, it's testament to the thoughtful design of the restaurant and bar areas. Guests can enjoy a drink over a board game, newspaper or book in the lounge area (which quickly became my favourite nook), while the terrace is perfect for a sundowner. 

We enjoyed dinners in the airy pavilion restaurant and the more traditional snug. In both, the food and service were impeccable. The menu had all the seafood classics you'd hope for; a sumptuous chowder, crispy Cornish cider-battered fish and chips and, of course, lobster, caught with traditional pots by local fisherman Jof Hicks. We loved the small plates and bites too: confit pork belly rillettes, haddock fritters and grilled goats cheese were moreish and perfectly portioned. And just when you think there can't be room for more, a gorgeous sticky toffee pudding is served, and there's no going back. That's until breakfast the next day, at least, when there's somehow still room for a full Scillonian. 

Curl up with a book or board game in The New Inn's Sleeper's Lounge

Where else to eat on the islands 

The food does not stop there. On The Quay on St Mary's is, you guessed it, right on the harbour, with an impressive menu that covers a range of tasty solo and sharing dishes. My pan-fried hake with mussels and bisque was deliciously balanced, even if somewhat upstaged by other tables' impressive skewers of seafood and sizeable mezze platters. It’s a light and airy space with great views and a warm atmosphere in an unbeatable location. 

Lunch at Tresco's Ruin Beach Cafe is a must. A big outdoor table, freezing cold lagers, and crispy thin pizzas overlooking a white sand beach with not a single person on it – what more could you want? It's a truly idyllic setting and we enjoyed it so much we came back the next day to while away a few more hours over coffee and mezzes. And though we stopped by a little too early in the day for cocktails, they would certainly be on my to-try list on a return visit. Mine'll be a sea samphire margarita or a Trescotini. 

The Ruin Beach Cafe dishes up delicious local fare in a beachside location

And after a stomp across Bryher, our appetites happily returned by the time we reached the award-winning Hell Bay Hotel , Scilly's highest-rated restaurant. We enjoyed lunch soaking up the midday sun on the terrace – and while larger plates like bouillabaisse, the signature beef burger and a cauliflower flatbread sounded fantastic, it was the sandwich menu that caught my attention. The Cornish crab sarnie came as a doorstep wedge with almost double the crab to bread ratio – just as it should be, and completely sumptuous.  

It probably goes without saying at this point, but you truly won't struggle to find a fantastic meal on Scilly. Everywhere we ate had daily specials as well as seasonal, regularly changing menus. Portions are generous, produce is more often than not locally sourced. And, as something of a caffeine snob, I'm pleased to report we didn't have a single bad coffee on Scilly.

How to get there

Ease into a less hurried and more luxurious travel mode before you even arrive at the Isles of Scilly by taking the Great Western Railway's Night Riviera Sleeper from London Paddington to Penzance. 

With first-class lounges at both stations where you can enjoy complimentary refreshments before your journey and freshen up with a shower afterwards, and with an on-board lounge serving snacks and drinks, it's a relaxing and unique way to make the journey down to the southwest. Compact and comfortable cabins can accommodate one or two passengers, with a sink, wardrobe and plenty of luggage storage. Train staff are on hand to welcome first-time sleeper passengers, and will brighten your wake-up call with a warm breakfast too. 

Start your trip in style with an overnight journey on the Night Riviera Sleeper 

St Mary's and Tresco are just a short hop from Penzance, and there really is no better way to arrive than with Penzance Helicopters . Passengers get a generous luggage allowance of 20kg, and the welcoming crew ran us through everything we needed to know before the short and spectacular flight. 

Not a single passenger was able to keep their phone camera in their pocket as we flew into St Mary's. And even after four days of photographing the islands, the same was true on our return from Tresco, with the added bonus of spotting some iconic Cornish sights like the Minack Theatre and Mousehole harbour too.

For those who prefer to stick to the water, the boat from Penzance takes just under three hours, with regular crossings throughout the day. 

The verdict

Several people we met told us that they make an annual pilgrimage to Scilly. For some, it was the continuation of a childhood tradition that brought fond memories. Others described discovering the islands later in life, and how they quickly became a much-treasured destination. 

At the start of our trip, that sounded like a lovely prospect. By the end, it was one I had come to completely understand. Scilly, and the remarkable people that strike up a life like no other there, really is a place like no other. Just be prepared for the inevitable pull to go back.

Julia O'Driscoll's trip was facilitated by Visit Isles of Scilly . She was a guest of Star Castle Hotel , where rooms start from £229 per night B&B, and Tresco's The New Inn , where rooms start from £221 per night B&B. Flights to and from the islands were facilitated by Penzance Helicopters ; adult tickets are £144.50 and children's £108. 

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Julia O'Driscoll is the engagement editor. She covers UK and world news, as well as writing lifestyle and travel features. She regularly appears on “The Week Unwrapped” podcast, and hosted The Week's short-form documentary podcast, “The Overview”. Julia was previously the content and social media editor at sustainability consultancy Eco-Age, where she interviewed prominent voices in sustainable fashion and climate movements. She has a master's in liberal arts from Bristol University, and spent a year studying at Charles University in Prague.

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Own a piece of this unique island, with 40 years of holidays on Tresco as more than just a visitor. Discover Islandshares for sale...

From seasonal escapes to wellness and creative breaks and last-minute offers, discover our latest offers & breaks on Tresco Island

• Eat overview
• The New Inn
• The Ruin Beach Café
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• The Garden Café
• Hell Bay Hotel & The Crab Shack
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• Place a Pre-Arrival Grocery Order

From beachfront dining to our cosy inn, get a taste for island-inspired dining with a Tresco twist

Place a pre-arrival grocery order and we'll deliver to your accommodation on your arrival

• Enjoy overview
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• Tresco Abbey Garden
• On the water
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Day Trips to Tresco

Events & Experiences

From the Low Tide Event to live music, Abbey Garden Theatre and more, discover extraordinary events on the Isles of Scilly

Whether you're coming from elsewhere on Scilly, or further afield in Devon or Cornwall, a day trip to Tresco is the perfect day out

Sail to the Isles of Scilly aboard Scillonian III from Penzance Harbour. From your arrival on St Mary's, it's just a short boat transfer to Tresco.

The crossing from Penzance to St. Mary’s take around 2hrs and 45 minutes, giving you a unique perspective of some of Cornwall’s most iconic coastline. The Scillonian operates from March to November, sailing daily in peak season and on a slightly reduced timetable in the early spring and late autumn.

The Scillonian is a passenger ferry only and cars cannot be brought to the islands. You can leave your car in the secure car park with Scilly Parking or Isles of Scilly Parking and use their convenient shuttle services to and from the quay.

Transfers to Tresco

Be sure to label every piece of luggage with a blue Tresco luggage label at Penzance Quay. Don't forget to also label your luggage with your name and accommodation details.

Shortly before arrival at St Mary's, listen out for the time of the next boat to Tresco. This is usually aboard Firethorn of Bryher and usually departs around 30 minutes after the Scillonian docks (£6.50 pp single - payable onboard). If you used blue Tresco luggage labels, your bags will be transferred automatically. On arrival on Tresco, our complimentary electric shuttle will take you to your accommodation. Please note: You must let us know your travel itinerary using the link below - we don't get these details from your travel provider and won't be there to meet you without them.

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From Further Afield

Our handy guide on getting to Tresco from across the UK and Europe, whether by car, train or plane.

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Tresco Times

Our annual intimate look at island life. Our views are clear...

Stay on Tresco

Winter and Festive breaks are not always available to book online - for cottage stays or New Inn breaks over the winter months please go to Winter on Tresco or call 01720 422849.

Or call +44 (0)1720 422 849

The UK island with tropical plants, silvery sands where cars are banned

T resco, the second-largest of the Isles of Scilly, is a haven for tropical plants and silvery sands, with no cars in sight. The island is renowned within the archipelago for its rich history and stunning gardens.

The globally recognised Abbey Garden, which surrounds the ruins of a Benedictine Abbey, is open to the public who can explore over 2,000 plant species from the southern hemisphere and subtropics. Visitors can wander along garden paths lined with succulents, towering palms, and striking, lipstick-red flame trees. Each season brings a new experience, with spring flowers blooming and autumnal hues appearing later in the year.

Entry to the garden is priced at £18 for adults and £5 for under 16s. Tresco's extensive history includes connections with monks, war, and absentee landlords. One historical point of interest is Cromwell's Castle, built on the site of a former Tudor Blockhouse using stone from King Charles' Castle, reports the Mirror .

The castle served as a defence against invading fleets. For dining, the Ruin Beach Café is a standout choice. Located on the oceanfront, this quaint café centres its menu around a wood-fired oven.

Its name derives from the ruined smuggler's cottage that forms part of its terrace, offering views over Raven's Porth. After indulging in a sharing platter or a cuppa with a view, visitors can take a stroll along the shimmering sandy beach.

Tresco Island hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including yoga retreats, wildlife spotting and boat trips. A new addition for 2024 is The Ocean Scilly Festival, which celebrates everything related to water.

Running from August 23 to September 1, the festival offers watersports, marine life experiences, maritime heritage exploration and Swimrun adventures.

For food enthusiasts, the Taste of Scilly Festival from September 11-22 offers ten days of tantalising food and drink experiences, showcasing local produce and island delicacies. Highlights of the festival include vineyard tours and evening supper safaris.

To reach the island, visitors can take the Scillonian III ferry from Penzance to St Mary's, followed by a short boat transfer to Tresco. The ferry journey takes approximately two hours and 45 minutes.

Alternatively, a helicopter service is available directly to Tresco from Penzance. However, it's worth noting that Tresco is a car-free island, so any vehicles will need to be left on the mainland. The entire island can be explored on foot or by bicycle.

For those planning to stay on the island, there are numerous beach houses and holiday cottages available for rent. For a more luxurious experience, the nearby Karma St Martin's hotel offers 30 rooms and suites in a coastal manor style, complete with a spa.

The hotel also boasts a selection of wines from St Martin's Vineyard on the neighbouring island.

New Isles of Scilly ferry service delayed until mid-July

• West Country
• Isles of Scilly
• Friday 21 June 2024 at 10:46am

Charlotte Gay

Reporter, ITV West Country

A new ferry service for the Isles of Scilly has delayed its launch date for a second time, as it undergoes final regulatory approvals.

Scilly Ferries had started taking bookings from the beginning of May to coincide with the World Pilot Gigs Championships and has been providing customers with alternative crossings.

The Atlantic Wolff ferry is currently on the water in Portsmouth where, after rebranding, has been through a series of tests but it is unlikely to be operational until early to mid July.

In a statement to customers Harland and Wolff CEO John Wood said "We know that this is disappointing, but we will do our utmost to transfer your bookings under the same terms where at all."

The company which is the rival of the 104-year-old Isles of Scilly Steamship Company (IOSSC) has been a topic of conversation for many months. Opinions have been divided on how successful it will be.

Janice Nightingale from the Bourdeaux shop said "it's certainly shaken things up a bit.

"You always think that it's good to have a bit of competition so and it gives you choices.

"I don't know that there's going to be enough business or sufficient business to keep both of them going."

As well as moving people on and off the islands, the ferries are vital for getting freight to the Isles of Scilly.

Phil Moon, managing director of the restaurant and cafe On the Quay, says the bulk of their supplies come from the mainland three times a week.

"With the competition that's coming in, and the differences that that might do, it's interesting, but also very worrying, because we just don't know what the future holds."

"There's positives and negatives. Obviously we need a service full stop. If there's no service here, there's no Isles of Scilly in my eyes."

Meanwhile the long-serving ferry, 47-year-old Scillonian 3, is on its way out with the new Mark 4 vessel is starting to be built in Vietnam at the end of June. The IOSSC expects it to be in action by 2026. It has not all been smooth sailing for the long standing Steamship Company with some controversy over the changes in finances with it being privately funded instead of receiving £48 million pounds of levelling up money . Stuart Reid, chief pperations denied there was any trust issues with islanders saying: "Everything we do is around ensuring that there's maximum benefit for both the community and the company at the same time.

"That goes with the new vessel project as well. We did a huge amount of consultation during the design process.

"We've been out several times to the islands, right the way through that four year project, which allowed the community to feed back into those plans, but will the two services."

Cllr Steve Simms, the Isles of Scilly lead for transport, has been closed following the actions of each company.

Cllr Simms said: "It's like a Greek tragedy...leaving the islands in a state of flux.

"I do not know what the travel situation will be here in 12 months because of what's happening.

"And also, on the other side in Whitehall, we see absolute chaos and we can't move on until we get another government."

Isles of Scilly's new ship embarks on first journey

Two new vessels will also enter service in 2026

• 11:08, 21 JUN 2024

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A new ship that will serve the Isles of Scilly has embarked on its first journey. The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s (ISSG) new freight vessel, Gugh, left Penzance on Thursday, June 20, on its inaugural trip to the islands, carrying its first load of freight including building supplies and a boat.

The 22m vessel is an echo of the group’s former freight vessel of the same name, which served as the inter-island launch between 1961 and 1991. Gugh allows freight to be transported directly to shore almost anywhere on any island.

It was built in Exeter by UK shipbuilder Coastal Workboats, to the specifications of renowned international shipbuilder, Damen. Gugh is the fourth freight-specific vessel in ISSG’s fleet, working alongside its main cargo vessel Gry Maritha, which operates on the Penzance to Scilly route, as well as the Lyonesse Lady and Swift Lady, which service the off-islands.

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It will be moored in St Mary’s, is equipped with two cranes and has the ability to carry 50 tonnes of freight when fully loaded. The vessel will have the capacity to carry up to 12 passengers, the same as Gry Maritha.

Stuart Reid, CEO of ISSG said: “We are delighted to welcome Gugh into service. It not only gives us additional flexibility, with direct-to-shore delivery, but will also increase freight capacity on the Penzance to Scilly route. Gugh will ensure that we can continue to provide an outstanding service to our customers.”

The addition of the Gugh is part of the Steamship Group’s new vessel replacement project. Earlier this year the group also signed contracts for the construction of two new vessels which will enter service in 2026.

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Skybus Weather Advisory for Thursday 13th June 2024

12th June 2024

The weather forecast for Thursday 13th June 2024 is indicating the likelihood of strong winds, heavy rain and reduced visibility at Land’s End, St Mary’s and Newquay airports, which may cause disruption to Skybus flights.

At this time, no flights have been cancelled. For Skybus passengers booked to travel on Thursday, you may transfer to a flight on a different date without paying an amendment fee and where space allows.

Passengers are advised to contact Skybus Operations on 01736 785233, 01736 785249 or 01736 785252 to discuss their options.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your patience and understanding.

Please keep an eye out for updates via email, our text alerts and on our Twitter travel updates page and website.

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