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About St Mary’s

The largest island of the Scilly archipelago and home to 1,800 Scillonians this is the beating heart of Scilly and the gateway to the other islands. Its wonderful beaches, local food, charming lanes, music and culture are a celebration of what these enchanted isles are all about. Hugh Town is the main centre with its cluster of shops, banks, post office, pubs, restaurants and cafes as well as the only supermarket on the archipelago.

It has three lovely beaches and The Quay, where the daily Scillonian III arrives from Penzance and the inter-island ferries depart. The impressive fortification of The Garrison dominates the south-west peninsula, whilst the island’s north coast is a string of deserted sandy beaches, incredible ancient sites and stunning seascapes.

There are also 5 small islands off St Mary’s that can be accessed at low tide. The island has every type of accommodation to suit a range of budgets from coastal self-catering cottages, luxury hotels and inns to glamping and camping. Sampling St Mary’s delicious food is an island highlight.

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Highlights of St Mary’s

• Walking the St Mary’s coast path – find out how here
• Scilly isles sunsets
• Swim in secluded sandy bays – see out top spots here
• Coasteering
• Island hopping

How to get to the Isles of Scilly 

The Isles of Scilly ferry, the Scillonian III, leaves from Penzance daily (March to November). You can also fly to Scilly from Lands End, Newquay and Exeter airports. Baggage transfers are easily arranged from the ferry or airport to your accommodation on any island; there is a minibus service from St Mary’s airport to your accommodation or The Quay.

Best time to go to the Isles of Scilly 

You can travel to the Isle of Scilly anytime of the year. Most visitors go between May to September, but Easter and October half terms can also be great often with good weather and fewer visitors. Spring time in Scilly is the best time to see the scented narcissi. The best time for birdwatching on Scilly is during the spring and autumn, with the large number of passing migrants

Getting around St Mary’s 

There are over 50 km of public footpaths on the island, and km’s of quiet lanes for cycling. There are a few taxi companies including Toot’s Taxis 

Is St Mary’s dog friendly 

Yes, except the main Hugh Town beaches of Town Beach, Porth Cressa and Port Mellon which have restrictions April to October. There is also plenty of dog-friendly accommodation throughout St Mary’s and Scilly.

Food and drink on St Mary’s 

Hugh Town has several pubs, cafes and restaurants with others scattered throughout the island. There is a Co-op in town, the only supermarket on the archipelago.

Accommodation on St Mary’s 

There is a wide range of pub accommodation, self-catering and B&B’s; a luxury hotel; and a campsite. Here are some top choices:

• Star Castle Hotel – Historic luxury inside Garrison walls Book here
• Tregarthen’s Hotel – Views of the harbour and off-islands Book here
• Old Town Inn – Quieter, near a great beach
• The Atlantic – Seafront inn, close to ferry Book here
• St Mary’s Hall Hotel – friendly, great food & gardens Book here

Contacts

Visit Isles of Scilly https://www.visitislesofscilly.com/about/practical-info/tourist-information-centre ; info@visitislesofscilly.com; +44 (0)1720 620600

Gig Racing, St Agnes to St Mary’s