The Isles of Scilly
The Isles of Scilly are the most westerly part of Britain. An archipelago of 140 islands, with nothing between them and the USA, they are blessed with a benign climate, despite recieving gale force winds during winter. There are five main inhabited islands; St Mary’s beingthe most developed. Clement weather produces early flowers, and flower growing remains a considerable industry. The Scillies were designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1975. Photo by: JC Richardson
Tresco, the second largest island, is also much visited, thanks in large part to the fabulous Abbey Gardens. St Martin‘s, the third largest island, is very unspoilt. Here you can find Bronze Age burial chambers and the remains of a 5th century chapel. Daffodils and Amaryllis Belladonna are grown commercially. but it’s the gorgeous beaches and crystal waters that most people come for. Photo by: khanrizzi
St Agnes, the most southwesterly island, is popular with its lovely coastline, white sand beaches, coves and rock pools. Photo by: Adam and Debbie Purser of Classic Sailing
Small and quiet, Bryher is peppered with pre-historic sites. Covered in a blaze of grose and wild flowers in spring and summer, it’s another paradise. Bryher makes a perfect gateway from the stresses of modern life, its coastal path offering fabuluos views of the rocky shoreline and across the water to Tresco. The Scilly Isles offer something for everyone.
When to go: Anytime but best between April to November. Population: 2,153. How to get there: By plane, helicopter or boat from the mainland. Photo by: Swiv
