One of the most beloved of all British traditions has to be a picnic on a summer’s day. Whether it be the full monty of a gingham blanket with sausage rolls and lemonade or a sandwich on a bench with a view, this pastime is so loved that it even has its own awareness month. That’s right – July is National Picnic Month!
It is also a tradition that is quintessentially Isles of Scilly – when you visit the islands you will often see families on the beach eating beside the sea, or couples huddled on benches with the most delicious fish and chips. No holiday on the islands is complete without a picnic of some form.
So, what is it that makes a perfect island picnic?
Whether you’re visiting the islands for a day trip or longer break, you simply must sample the islands local produce. We’ve pulled together a hampers feast from the islands independent producers for your enjoyment.
Enjoy a picnic on a deserted island
Have an experience you will never forget by enjoying your picnic on a deserted island. One way to do this is to go to Hut 62 on the island of Bryher and hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from its watersports centre. Paddle out to the nearby uninhabited island of Samson with your food, pull up onto the shore, and enjoy a picnic on an island all to yourself!
To truly feel a part of Bryher life, pick up your supplies from Island Fish on Bryher for freshly caught seafood that is not to be missed. The Pender family has been fishing the waters around Scilly for generations, and their catch is also available five days a week at New Grimsby Quay, Tresco, thanks to their regular deliveries.
Craving something sweet? Stop by Veronica Farm Fudge on Bryher. Made with milk, cream and butter from Troytown Farm cows on St Agnes, this iconic, crumbly fudge is available from the honesty stall at the farm gate, as well as at the Vine Café, Hell Bay, the Island Shop on Bryher, and other spots across Scilly.
Picnic on a sand bar at low water
Having a picnic on a sand bar is another experience unlike any other. If you are on the gorgeous island of St Martin’s , take to the waters in a kayak from St Martin’s Watersports, and if the tide is low enough (check tide times before), then you can reach Ganilly sand bar for a picnic that is surrounded by water. Pick up your supplies from the Island Bakery beforehand!
To truly feel a part of St Martin’s life, pick up your supplies from The Island Baker on St Martin’s for fresh bread and pasties. Working from a converted lobster potting shed, Barney McLachlan hand-crafts his bakes using the finest organic flour. Each week he introduces a new guest loaf, and his freshly made pasties are a firm favourite across the islands, the spiced vegetable variety is especially popular.
St Martin’s Vineyard offers a unique coastal wine and drinks experience. Stock changes with the seasons, but you’ll typically find single-variety apple juice, St Martin’s wine, sparkling cider, and beers from their nano-brewery, all produced right on the island.
If you are on St Agnes, there is a sand bar that stretches out to join St Agnes with its neighbouring island of Gugh. Walk along the stretch of sand and find a spot to stop for a bite to eat – here you are on neither island yet can enjoy the views of seeing both!
Fish and chips overlooking St Mary’s harbour
With seafood being a big part of island life, something to tick off your list has got to be enjoying some fish and chips on the Isles of Scilly. Head to The Strand that overlooks the harbour on the island of St Mary’s and enjoy the view of boats passing and the sun setting for a true Isles of Scilly experience.
Lastly, don’t miss the Scillonian Tattie cake’s honesty box on Church Street, St Mary’s. This traditional, potato-based cake was once the staple of workers in the flower fields. Moist, rich, and utterly moreish, the age-old recipe remains a closely guarded secret, but one bite, and you’ll understand why.
The joy of a picnic on the Isles of Scilly
Whichever beach you choose to make your spot, or whatever bench you pause at on a coastal walk, offers an incredible view. Enjoy views of the other islands and soak up the tranquillity of island life by making a picnic on the Isles of Scilly something to add to your bucket list. It is a wonderful thing to do whether you are travelling for the day or staying for the week.
Celebrate National Picnic Month by booking your travel to the Isles of Scilly. Visit for the day on Scillonian III for just £35 return or have more time on the islands by booking Skybus. See more on how to get here by going to our bookings page.