St Mary's

With its air and sea links to the mainland, St Mary’s is likely to be your first stop on Scilly. It is the biggest and most populated island and, with its shops, school and hospital, it is the hub of Scillonian life.

Yet outside the hustle and bustle of Hugh Town, with its cluster of shops, galleries, pubs and cafés, St Mary’s still has its fair share of dreamy white-sand beaches, dramatic coves, tranquil waters, amazing archaeological sites and stunning seascapes. So, whether you are just passing through or making your base here, St Mary’s offers a tantalising glimpse of island life and a great deal in terms of adventure.                      

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk more than 30 miles of coastal path and nature trails
• Cycle the island’s nine miles of road
• Enjoy a horse ride to lesser known spots
• Shop for locally made arts and crafts, and island memories
• View the off-islands from the Garrison
• Snorkel at Porthcressa Beach
• Explore the rock-pools at Porthlow
• Learn to sail at Porthmellon
• Treat yourself to an ice-cream at Holgate’s Green
• Connect with your ancestors at Bant’s Carn burial chamber and Halangy Down Bronze Age village
• Watch a gig race
• Observe rare birdlife
• Let your children captain the Garrison’s “Pirate Ship”
• Enjoy a drink on the terrace of the Atlantic Inn
• Dine outdoors at Juliet’s Garden
• Stroll along Porthcressa’s new promenade
• Watch the sun go down at Spero’s
• Take a sea safari and explore shipwrecks, seals and seabirds
• Experience wonderful solitude at Pelistry Bay
• Beachcomb at Bar

WHERE TO STAY

- Hotels

- Self-catering cottages

- Guest houses

- Campsites

Click to view all accommodation on St Mary’s.

GETTING AROUND

There are regular boat services from St Mary’s to the other islands. More information from the St Mary’s Boatmen’s Association – www.scillyboating.co.uk.