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As the owner  #scillybeds.com on St. Mary’s, I’m often asked by our guests about the best walking routes across our magnificent archipelago.
Being born a Scillonian and after 40 odd years of exploring these islands on foot, I’m delighted to share some of my favourite walking coastal paths that showcase the natural beauty of the Isles of Scilly:

1 ## St. Mary’s Garrison Walk
**Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Duration: 1-2 hours | Distance: 1.5 – 2 miles
** Starting just a 10-minute stroll from @scillybeds, this circular walk around the Garrison offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in the entire archipelago. Star Castle at the top is a 16th-century fortification providing a fascinating historical view as you walk up to the Garrison and its walls. On clear days, you can see across to the Western Rocks, Bishop Rock Lighthouse (the biggest lighthouse in UK), and the neighbouring islands of St Agnes, Bryher, Tresco and St Martin’s. The path takes you past several pristine beaches, including Porthcressa and Town Beach, perfect for a mid-walk paddle. Keep your eyes peeled for seals basking on the rocks below, rare seabirds soaring overhead and the infamous Porthcressa ducks.

2 ## St Mary’s Penninis Walk

**Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 1-2 hours | Distance: 1.5 – 2 miles
**Starting just a 5 minute stroll from @scillybeds, this circular walk around Penninis Headland offers stunning views over Hugh Town (the isthmus) on the west side leading to the Penninis Lighthouse and then on to the east side taking the rugged stroll to picturesque Old Town Bay  (or take the easier path along the headland top back to Hugh Town and @scillybeds).

3 ## Tresco Abbey Gardens to King Charles’s Castle via Cromwells Castle
**Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 3-4 hours | Distance: 2-3 mile
** A short boat trip from St. Mary’s brings you to the private island of Tresco, home to the world-famous Abbey Gardens. This circular route combines subtropical gardens with rugged coastal paths and historical sites. The northern part of the island offers dramatic views across to Bryher and the Atlantic beyond. Passing spectacular Cromwell’s Castle on the coastal path  you climb the short hill to King Charles’s Castle which provides an excellent vantage point for spotting sea and airborne wildlife. (there is an easier walk along the top of the north end of Tresco).

4 ## St. Martin’s Coast-to-Coast

**Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 2 hours | Distance: 4 miles

** St. Martin’s boasts some of the finest white sand beaches in Britain. This gentle walk takes you from Higher Town to Lower Town, via/passing by the iconic red and white daymark navigation shipping aid. First you head right to the Daymark on an easier path or the more challenging coastal path, then head back on the easier path or again rugged coastal path heading west. Spot of lunch when you reach Higher town or picnic on Great Bay or wait and nip in the Seven Stones pub or Hotel at Lower Town. The crystal-clear waters and powder-soft sand of Great Bay make it an ideal spot for a picnic lunch or seashell hunting. For a shorter walk give the Daymark a miss and take the easier direct 2 mile road walk to Lower Town. @scillybeds can offer advice on other walks here and best lunch spots for your needs or you can buy a packed lunch, prior to you setting off for the day, in Hugh town on St Mary’s.

5 ## Bryher’s Wild Side
**Difficulty: Challenging | Duration: 3 hours | Distance: 3 miles** For those seeking a more adventurous hike, Bryher’s western coast offers an exhilarating walking experience. Watch Atlantic waves crash against Hell Bay’s rocky headlands and enjoy the solitude of Rushy Bay’s sandy shores. This walk is particularly spectacular during winter storms or on windy days, though we recommend checking weather conditions before departing from St. Mary’s. Puffins may be spotted in season (April to July).

## Tips for Walking the Isles of Scilly – Check boat times in advance – we’re happy to help you find the boat times online for your inter-island transport @scillybeds – Bring layers – Scillonian weather can be changeable – Apply sunscreen – Carry water and snacks – island shops may have limited opening hours especially in the shoulder seasonal periods – Wear appropriate footwear – most paths are well-maintained but can be uneven – Take a camera – the light and landscapes are a photographer’s dream – Consider tides when planning beach walks

## Where to Stay @scillybeds on St. Mary’s, with beautiful sea views, close to Hugh Town and coastal walks. We specialise in local knowledge to walking enthusiasts. Our comfortable studio rooms provide the perfect base for exploring the islands, and we offer comfortable seating for those restful days: – Breakfast taken at your leisure particularly suitable for dawn walkers – Local walking maps and guides – Expert advice on routes and boat times – Comfortable king beds for tired bodies!

Whether you’re planning a dedicated walking holiday or simply want to explore the islands at your own pace, the Isles of Scilly offer an unparalleled walking experience. From subtropical gardens to windswept headlands, each island has its own distinct character waiting to be discovered on foot.

Book your stay at #scillybeds 0778 9961499 and start planning your Scillonian walking adventure today. Contact us for recommend seasonal times to visit for the best walking experience and the latest Island coastal path updates.

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