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Who says you need to travel half-way around the world to find paradise? The Isles of Scilly have it all and idyllic beaches, abundant sea-life, tropical gardens and warm climates are all just a hop, skip and a jump from mainland UK. Being a Penzance girl, the Isles of Scilly have always been on my…

We’ve enjoyed another wonderful season sailing daily from Penzance to the Isles of Scilly, spotting an array of spectacular wildlife along the way. Dolphins, porpoises and sunfish to name just a few have made regular sightings. We’ve seen some outstanding sunrises, sunsets and sun filled days; the islands have had a wonderful season with some…

As the Autumn season begins to wind down, like us, you’ll be looking towards Christmas and presents for friends and family. We’ve got some truly special gifts that’ll make memories last a lifetime. Perhaps you know a relative that already has everything or a friend with a passion for exploring? Or perhaps you just want…

Set sail from Penzance and arrive to the Isles of Scilly by lunchtime. On your way, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy a stunning seaside view of Cornwall’s quaint fishing villages, the famous open air Minack Theatre and the Land’s End Peninsula. We’ve pulled together our top five-day trip experiences to be had on…

Our own team voted this the islands’ best way to spend a rainy day. The museum is full of curiosities, pictures and finds from shipwrecks, giving you a glimpse of daily life on Scilly from Roman times to the present day. It’s open all year round. Church Street, Hugh Town, St. Mary’s 01720 422337

Nestling in the middle of the island, St. Mary’s own vineyard and winery opens its doors from April until September for tours, lobster lunches… and wine tasting, of course. It’s a good idea to book in advance. Holy Vale, St. Mary’s 01720 420317

If walking and cycling seem a bit energetic, a golf buggy is a fun, easy way to explore the island in comfort. It’s something out of the ordinary for the whole family – and up to eight can ride – but be aware there are age limits on who can drive. The Scilly Cart Co,…

Parents with young children need no introduction to soft play as an all-weather lifesaver. In Old Town, Kings of the Castle is suitable for children up to eight, with a multi-level play frame, ball pool, baby and toddler area and café. Old Town, St. Mary’s 07981 133210

In just 75 minutes, the Island Rover will introduce you to the highlights of St. Mary’s – with a full commentary, giving you a local’s perspective. There’s no booking necessary; just meet at Holgate’s Green at 10:15 am or 1:30 pm, from Monday to Saturday. Holgate’s Green, St. Mary’s 01720 422131 Note: the tour is…

Every visitor to Scilly finds their own favourite island – and exploring them couldn’t be easier. Look out for the chalk boards on the quayside with the sailing times to another island, or book a round trip to see the sights and wildlife. St. Mary’s Boatmen’s Association 01720 423999

Every weekday afternoon, the popular Phoenix craft studios give you a chance to try your hand at a craft – it might be stained glass painting, lino printing, jewellery making or painting. The workshops are very popular with children, but everyone’s welcome; call to book a day in advance. Porthmellon Business Park, St. Mary’s 01720…

St. Mary’s golf course, at the Isles of Scilly Golf Club, is a challenging, 5,942-yard beauty. But be warned, the panoramic sea views across to other islands could well distract you from your swing. There are drinks and home-cooked food at the clubhouse, too. Carn Morval, St. Mary’s 01720 422692

With largely traffic-free roads and gentle slopes, the Isles of Scilly are perfect for exploring under pedal power. Even on the larger islands, it’s quick and easy to take a leisurely ride around. There’s a choice of bikes for hire – and they can be delivered to other islands for longer bookings. St. Mary’s Bike…

St. Mary’s is criss-crossed by 30 miles of nature trails, paths and other walking routes. Local experts offer guided tours of the island’s abundant nature, archaeology and bird life – while the Tourist Information Centre on Porthcressa Beach can give you maps, guides and friendly advice. Ornithologist and naturalist: Will Wagstaff 01720 422212 (March-October) Archaeologist…

Clear waters and sheltered bays make Scilly an ideal place to learn to sail, windsurf or stand-up paddle board. The Isles of Scilly Sailing Centre provides tuition and taster sessions – as well as hire, if you’re more experienced, or simply want to kayak across to a deserted island of your own. Porthmellon, St. Mary’s…

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding across a white, island beach, this is your chance. St. Mary’s Riding Centre is approved by the British Horse Society, with friendly instructors and horses to suit beginners and experienced equestrians alike. Maypole, St. Mary’s 01720 423855 claire@horsesonscilly.co.uk

Overlooking New Grimsby harbour, Tresco’s gallery is deceptively large; it’s easy to enjoy an hour lost among works of art from and inspired by the islands and nearby Cornwall. The gallery is open all year round, but it’s wise to call and confirm times. New Grimsby, Tresco 01720 424925

As well as its world-famous plant collection, the Abbey Garden’s walled network of pathways and sculptures means there’s a surprise around every corner. You don’t have to be an avid gardener yourself – or even a grown-up – to appreciate the sheer variety of sights, textures and aromas. There’s even a museum of shipwrecked figureheads.…

Many of Tresco’s historic monuments hint at the islands’ strategic importance. Some date to the English Civil War – with forts named for both Cromwell and King Charles – and earlier still, with 16th century defences against potential French and Spanish invasion. More recently, a sea plane base at New Grimsby protected First World War…

Tresco is the perfect gateway to many of the Isles of Scilly’s uninhabited islands and deserted coves. Hire a boat or kayak from the Sailing Centre beside Ruin Beach Café, and with luck you could have Teän or St. Helen’s – arguably Scilly’s finest panoramic view – completely to yourself. You may even find yourself…

If you really want to get to know Tresco intimately, it’s perfectly possible to walk all the way around the island’s coast in a few hours. Or, if you’d like a guide, there are a great selection of organised wildlife walks and local experts who can offer a guided tour, pointing out local nature and…

For some, walking feels a little slow. That’s no problem: bicycles are available to hire on the island, giving you a much faster way to explore Tresco, in a virtually traffic-free environment. Or if that seems a touch strenuous, opt for one of the island’s golf buggies; it’s great fun. Contact the Flying boat club,…

The rugged Eastern Isles – with their puffins and seals – are only a short paddle away, as are the deserted beaches of uninhabited islands like Samson. Or perhaps you prefer to stay close to St. Martin’s, and explore the islands’ own coves and inlets. Contact: 07925 762856

The clear waters around Scilly present some of the finest diving in the world – with an abundance of sea life and historic wrecks. The dive school on St. Martin’s offer charters, beginners’ taster dives – and, uniquely, an award-winning experience, snorkelling with wild seals. Be sure to book in good time. Higher Town, St.…

Fay’s distinctive jewellery is inspired by Scilly – and, sometimes, even modelled on finds from the islands’ beaches; each piece has its own story. Her studio is open to visitors, from Monday to Saturday, and is a fascinating visit – but be prepared to want something… Ashvale, St. Martin’s 01720 423017

Artists from the Isles of Scilly may share a common inspiration, but it’s expressed in all kinds of ways – and there’s nowhere that’s clearer than at North Farm Gallery. In this converted barn, which showcases Scillonian art, you’ll find more styles and media than you’d think possible. Higher Town, St. Martin’s 01720 423028

The unique microclimate on the Isles of Scilly make the south-facing slopes of St. Martin’s a promising place to cultivate grapes. Visit on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday – guided tours are at 11 am – or stop by the shop, for a real taste of the island. Higher Town, St. Martin’s 01720 423418

As Scilly’s smallest inhabited island, walking around Bryher is easy enough for most people. But to really understand the island’s highlights, you might like a guided tour from local resident Chris Potterton. Contact 01720 423467

Bryher his home to some of the Isles of Scilly’s most sought-after eating experiences – like Veronica Farm fudge, local Tattie Cake, and Jamie Oliver’s favourite seaside fish & chips. Meanwhile, the Crab Shack at the Hell Bay Hotel only serves crab, mussels and scallops: it’s fun, informal, and enjoyably messy… not to mention popular:…

Richard Pearce paints world-renowned art from his Golden Eagle studio: a converted gig shed, overlooking Great Bay. You can view dozens of paintings and prints of all sizes, or try your own hand, at craft workshops run by Richard’s wife Caroline. Great Bay, Bryher 01720 423665 (open Monday-Saturday 9 am – 5 pm , and…