Excursion St mary' garrison walk tour at Isle of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are an archipelago of five inhabited islands and other small rocky islets situated 28 miles from Lands End, the most South Westerly point of the British Isles. With a total population of just over two thousand, an exceptionally mild climate, beautiful flowers and countless white sandy beaches, they are also known for their friendliness, birds, clear turquoise sea and ancient sites and monuments. The Isles of Scilly are a beautiful haven of peace and tranquility loved by visitors and locals alike.

Be met by your local guide at St Mary's quay and enjoy a short introductory talk about the history of the Isles. Traces of human life on Scilly stretch back at least 8,000 years, when the islands were one large land-mass that was home to nomadic hunter-gatherers. Their flint tools still sometimes turn up today, on beaches and in fields.

Star Castle Garrison

Venture off by foot to enjoy a scenic tour of the Garrison on the isle of St Mary's and look across to Bryher and Tresco, marveling that even though you can walk between them, they are so utterly different. Marvel at the beautiful views before ending up in Star Castle to enjoy a tea or coffee in the 16th Century Castle Dungeon Bar. Star Castle is now a hotel, but it was built as an impregnable fortress back in 1593 and gets its name from the shape of its eight-sided central keep, curtain wall and dry moat. Just to the right of the castle you'll see a campsite and just right of this a footpath branches right and takes you down to Steval Point Battery, which marks the island's most westerly point. On a clear day there are fabulous views over to St Agnes and distant, lonely Bishop's Rock Light house.

Hugh Town

Hugh Town is the central hub with its cluster of shops, banks, churches, post office, cafés, galleries, restaurants and pubs as well as the wonderful museum. It has three lovely beaches in very close proximity - Porthcressa with a children's play area close by; Town Beach, a perfect spot to watch the comings and goings on the Quay; and Porthmellon which also hosts the Sailing Centre.

Stay in Hugh Town for more sightseeing and shopping and return to the Quay at your leisure or walk back with your guide after refreshments at Star Castle.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Star Castle, Hugh Town, beautiful views across the other islands

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1, 24 mile (about 2 kilometres), at times over gravel surfaces and inclines. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable sportswear in layers with sturdy, flat, and closed-toe walking or hiking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket from the ship. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair.