Family Fun

When was the last time you did something for the first time?

Scilly is a haven for children, a young explorer's paradise and the treasure is everlasting magical memories.

The islands are a playground for those who just want to have a fun adventure. There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained with gorgeous sandy beaches, huge rockpools, and even a menagerie of unusual animals. There are daily boat trips, and if you ask the skipper he will usually let you come and help with the navigation!

On St. Mary's there is a play park on the Garrison and a skate park at Carn Gwaval, there are summer holiday clubs, especially good if you want to ditch the parents! There are miles of walking paths and cycle routes, horse riding, kayaking and most things in between, and in the evening why not hire a DVD and stay in with a good family film.

So back to the question, when did you find your last cowrie shell, have a beach BBQ, spot seals and puffins? Go catching shrimps at low water? Discover a message in a bottle? If you can't recall its time to do it!

Many of our hotels and guest houses are family friendly with special rates available, and the majority of self catering cottages and flats will provide cots and high chairs for your little ones. Every island has somewhere to take the children for lunch or dinner when they need refuelling for more fun.

On St.Marys and Tresco you can hire bikes for all the family or have a child seat attached for the younger members.

Children can enjoy lots of adventures at St. Marys Playpark on the giant pirate ship and for younger children there are swings and seat rides. On wet days, when the delights of the beach are limited, St.Marys has a childrens play club where your youngsters can mix with both local and visiting children. There is also a toy libraryand childcare equipment scheme where you can hire strollers and buggies as well as other essentials. For more information on the holiday playscheme and toy library contact the Early Years and Youth office on 01720 423680 or email them at earlyyears@scilly.gov.uk.

Watch a real family enjoy a holiday packed with interesting things to do with this link to BBC's Gimme A Break (BBC filmed the episode this summer).