May is National Walking Month, and what better way to embrace the spirit of the month than by exploring the stunning Isles of Scilly on foot? Walking is good for the mind, body, and soul, and there’s no better place to experience all the benefits than on the Isles of Scilly.

The islands really are a walker’s dream. With a network of well-marked paths, miles of coastal trails, and scenic nature walks, the islands are perfectly suited for those who want to get outdoors and just explore.

Take a leisurely stroll along the coast paths, where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking sea views at every turn with an abundance of wildlife, wildflowers, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Encounter charming local shops, honesty stalls offering homemade goodies, and scenic picnic spots that invite you to stop, relax, and enjoy the moment. And with so many photo-worthy views, you’ll have plenty of chances to capture the beauty of Scilly.

One of the joys of walking on the Isles of Scilly is that there’s no need to follow a set route. The islands are small and easy to navigate, so you can simply set off and let your feet carry you. However, if you’re looking for some top spots to add to your walk, here are a few points of interest we recommend stopping by as you explore these beautiful islands on foot. From stunning coastal views to historic landmarks, these highlights are not to be missed!

 

St Mary’s: The hub of the islands

St Mary’s, the largest and most populated island, is packed with scenic coastal paths and historic landmarks. For walkers, it offers a mix of rugged landscapes and peaceful trails.

Key spots include:

Garrison Walls: Follow the curtain wall and bastions that formed one of the most impressive coastal defence systems in England and stunning views over the islands and surrounding coastline. A perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

Hugh Town: Stroll along the cobbles of the bustling heart of St Mary’s, Hugh Town. Wander the narrow streets lined with local shops, galleries, and cafes, where you can pause for a coffee or pick up some handmade island crafts.

Buzza Tower: The perfect place to stop for a moment to soak in the views from Buzza Hill, with sheltered seating overlooking Porthcressa and St Mary’s Harbour. The three-storey tower was built in 1821 as a windmill and later restored as a memorial tower to commemorate a visit by King Edward VII.

Halangy Down Ancient Village: If you’re venturing to the north-west end of St Mary’s, Halangy Down is a highlight not to be missed. As you walk through the landscape, you’ll come across the well-preserved remains of a Bronze Age settlement, with ancient stone walls marking where huts and enclosures once stood. From here, you can also enjoy sweeping views over the surrounding hills and coastline.

Innisidgen Lower and Upper Burial Chambers: If you’re planning to stop by the Halangy Down Ancient Village, you’re just 30 minutes on foot from Innisidgen Hill, home to two Bronze Age burial chambers with views across to the Eastern Isles.  Another must-see spot for a walk back in time.

Scenic Beaches: All of the islands offer stunning beaches any plenty to choose from, but venturing a little further from the hub of the islands often offers the quieter more secluded coves.  Bar Point promises the whitest sand and views of St Martin’s and Tresco on the horizon – and you may even catch Scillonian III sailing by. Or plan your walk past Pelistry Bay, almost always one of the quietest spots, and just a short walk to the lovely little garden café, Carn Vean.

 

Tresco: Exclusivity and sophistication

Tresco, the Isles of Scilly’s exclusive privately-owned island, offers a unique blend of sophistication and natural beauty. Its elegant cafés, art gallery, and spa add a touch of luxury, while for walkers, the island is a paradise with world-renowned gardens, historic landmarks, and breathtaking coastal views.

Don’t miss:

Tresco Abbey Garden: Wander through its lush paths and discover rare species in this beautifully curated space. This world-renowned garden is a must-see for any nature lover. With over 20,000 plants from around the globe, it’s an oasis of exotic flora set against the stunning backdrop of the island’s landscape.

Great Pool: For those looking to experience a more serene side of the island, the peaceful Great Pool nature reserve is ideal. A tranquil walk around the freshwater lake offers a chance to enjoy the peaceful environment and observe the local wildlife.

Castles, ruins and views: History buffs will appreciate the opportunity to explore Tresco’s historic sites, including Cromwell’s Castle, King Charles Castle, and the Old Blockhouse. These fortifications date back to the 17th century and offer a glimpse into the island’s military past, while all providing the most amazing viewpoints from both the east side of the island (Old Blockhouse) and across the channel neighbouring island Bryher (King Charles Castle and Cromwell’s Castle).

Tristan’s (Secret) Treehouse: Visiting with kids? Take a scenic walk along the coastal path on Appletree Road, and make your way past the monument to discover Tristan’s hidden treehouse nestled in the woods. It’s the perfect spot to pause, climb up, and let the little ones enjoy a moment of play in this magical, secluded corner of the island.

If you’re arriving by boat for the day, note that drop-off and pick-up may be from different quays. These two locations are about a 15-minute walk apart, so be sure to ask the boat crew where your return pick-up will be. 

 

St Martin’s: Perfect beaches and peaceful paths

St Martin’s is known for its beautiful beaches and charming atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for walkers seeking tranquillity. Before setting off, we recommend stopping by the island’s bakery for fresh sandwiches to take away and enjoy on your favourite beach.

If you’re arriving by boat for the day, note that drop-off and pick-up may be from Higher Town Quay or Lower Town Quay. These two locations are about a 30-minute walk apart, so be sure to ask the boat crew where your return pick-up will be.

Key walking points include:

The Flats: If you start at Lower Town, you’re just a stone’s throw from this wide, open stretch with breathtaking sea views, which is even more spectacular at low tide.

Beaches: St Martin’s boasts some of the finest sands in Scilly. A full island walk will take you past Lawrence’s Bay, Par Beach, Great Bay, Little Bay and Lower Town Beach – all offering pristine coastal beauty.

Lower Town and Higher Town: Both areas are home to a handful of charming craft shops and local produce stands, perfect for a leisurely stroll and browse.

Day Mark: The path that leads to this iconic, striking red-and-white navigation aid provides some of the best panoramic views across the island and Eastern Isles along the way. When you reach the Day Mark on Chapel Down, standing on one of the highest points of the Isles of Scilly, don’t forget to get out your camera for a memorable photo opportunity.

 

Bryher: A quiet haven

Bryher offers dramatic landscapes, rocky coves, and peaceful walks. It’s ideal for those looking to explore the unspoiled beauty of Scilly.

Whether you’re drawn to the crashing waves of Hell Bay or the calm of Rushy Bay, Bryher’s landscape invites slow exploration and quiet moments.

Before heading out, consider stopping by one of the island’s food spots, such as the island shop or the honesty stalls dotted around the lanes — great for picking up homemade cakes, local produce, or snacks for a beach picnic.

If you’re visiting Bryher for the day by boat, landings typically take place at Bar Quay or Church Quay, depending on tide and weather conditions. These are around a 20-minute walk apart, so it’s a good idea to check with your boat crew where the return pick-up will be.

Key highlights include:

Hell Bay: The walk to Hell Bay takes you to Bryher’s wilder west side, where the Atlantic meets the island. The path here follows the rugged coastline, with sweeping views, crashing waves, and gorse-covered slopes – a striking contrast to Scilly’s gentler beaches. It’s a favourite route for those who enjoy a raw, elemental kind of beauty.

Shipman Head: On the opposite northern tip of the island, the trail towards Shipman Head offers a scenic hilltop walk with incredible views over the island and its surrounding waters, and even several neighbouring islands on a clear day.

Views across the Tresco Channel: One of Bryher’s most rewarding walks follows the coastline that faces Tresco, offering stunning views across the channel. Take the trail up to Watch Hill for a spot with sweeping vistas where you can gaze over to Tresco and an alternative perspective of Cromwell’s Castle perched on it’s shores.

Gweal Hill: a must-see spot on the west side of the island, looking over the smaller neighbouring uninhabited ‘Gweal’ the largest of the seven Norrard Rocks – a haven for seabirds and seals. Turn and face inland and the view is just as special, giving a unique perspective of both the north and south of the island with the Pool of Bryher in the middle – the only true brackish lagoon on Scilly.

A uniquely Scilly artist studio: As you explore the walking trails of Bryher, be sure to make a stop at Richard Pearce’s Artist Studio – a true Scilly gem tucked right on the beach in a former gig shed. Reached by foot along Bryher’s coastline, this small but inspiring space offers the perfect pause on your walk, where you can see the island through the eyes of a local artist. It’s not hard to see why Richard and so many others are drawn to paint here.

 

St Agnes and Gugh: Two Small Islands in One

St Agnes is a walker’s paradise for lovers of wild landscapes and quiet beaches.  It’s a rugged island full of character, rich history, and unspoiled natural beauty – and, the southernmost inhabited island in the UK!

The most unique feature of this small island is its connection to the even smaller island of Gugh, joined at low tide by a natural sandbar known as The Bar.  This tidal causeway opens up a completely different walking experience and chance to explore two islands in one.

Don’t miss:

Beady Pool treasure hunt: On St Agnes, there’s Beady Pool beach on the southern shores.  400 years ago a ship was wrecked on the rocks, sending its cargo of Venetian glass and ceramic beads to the bottom of the sea. Ever since, these tiny treasures have been washing up on the shore of Beady Pool and are on every visitor’s treasure trove list.

Troytown Maze: Further along the southern coast is Troytown Maze, made up of a spiral of stones arranged on a grassy mound and is said to have been there since 1729.

St Agnes Lighthouse: Heading inland, towards the centre of the island, you’ll find St Agnes Lighthouse, passing the island’s famous Troytown Farm Ice Cream shop and cozy Coastguards Lookout Café – both great spots to stop for a refreshment.

Wingletang Down: Follow the path from the lighthouse down past the most south-westerly shop and Post Office in the UK, and on towards Wingtang Down – with impressive towering granite rock formations.

The Bar: Heading back along the way you came, before following the paths to the east side of the island, you’ll find, connecting the islands of St Agnes to Gugh, a sandy tombolo, known as ‘The Bar’.  During low tide, you can walk the sandy bar across to the smaller, inhabited island, Gugh.  Make sure you check the tide times, as the sandbar can be covered at higher tides leaving the foot crossing between the islands inaccessible.

Gugh: If you make it across, this quiet and isolated spot has some stunning views and historic landmarks.  You’ll find Obadiah’s Barrow and a nine-foot granite menhir called Old Man Gugh, that has been standing there since the stone age!