Island Hop Through The Isles Of Scilly National Landscape

 July 29, 2025

  Read Time: About 20 minutes

St Agnes

St Agnes. Thomas Tolkien

If you want a Caribbean summer at home, don’t fret. You’re not the only one, but with a road trip to the Isles of Scilly, you’re unlikely to notice the difference. It’s one of those locations that make you feel like you’ve left England for tropical shores with white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Campsites in the Isles of Scilly National Landscape are tranquil and often uncrowded owing to its far-flung location, making it a glorious spot for reconnecting with nature. Escape the British winter and enjoy a taste of France as you rumble past sprawling vineyards, and perhaps take a cheeky tour to sample the local wines. We can’t explain why the weather is enticingly warm all year, and we won’t waste too much time pondering over it, as we have a handy road itinerary to keep you busy all summer. You’ll find plenty of inspiration for campsites in Scilly Isles in our Island Hop Through The Isles Of Scilly National Landscape guide, perfect for planning your trip.

The Isles of Scilly are a national landscape (formerly known as an area of outstanding natural beauty) in the UK, and they are protected due to their unique environment. It may be the UK’s smallest National Landscape, yet it boasts a designated Heritage Coast and also has a designated Heritage Coast and a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Furthermore, much of the land and surrounding waters have various conservation statuses, including Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA), to preserve their biodiversity and natural beauty. We’ll explore the best attractions and drives for a cracking Isles of Scilly below.

National Landscapes and National Scenic Area designations are aimed at conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of a specific area. Recognised for their outstanding scenery, these locations are protected with a focus on preserving the landscape and biodiversity while encouraging sustainable use.

The Isles of Scilly is the ultimate road trip for tropical escapes in the UK. It may sound downright impossible, given the unpredictable weather in the UK. Still, these fantastic islands in the Gulf Stream enjoy a perfect warm climate that creates the ideal environment for tropical plants. Picture a holiday with endless sugary sand beaches, clear teal ocean waters, and a quiet island atmosphere. Locals will smile, say hello, and offer their crafts, products, and produce to enhance your holiday experience. A sense of peace will overcome you as soon as you arrive, and your mainland worries will melt away with the tide.

How Many Inhabited Islands are There on The Isles of Scilly?

The Isles of Scilly consists of over 140 islands of which just 5 are inhabitable, and are St Marys, Tresco, St. Martins, Bryher and St Agnes. It is one of those lovely places you can visit just once, and it will hold a special place in your heart for years to come.

What is The Best Month to Visit Isles of Scilly?

Isles of Scilly

Isles of Scilly. James Stringer

The Isles of Scilly, 28 miles out in the Atlantic Ocean off Land's End in Cornwall, is bathed in sunshine and immersed in gorgeously heavenly hues. The islands are an all-year destination for residents, presenting something new and exciting each season. The islands have an early spring, and it's very rare to have frost in Scilly, with snowfall happening only a handful of times in the last 25 years. The weather is delightful between May and September, and most holidaymakers pick this season to visit the islands. Easter holidays and the October half-term can also be a lovely time to head over for a late or early break. You can also visit in autumn when the island's colours soften, and the migrating birds make their annual trip. Winter is also great for watching the islands draw a breath and huddle down when a storm whistles through, generally in the form of gale-force winds, and visitors get an authentic taste of island life.

Which Isles of Scilly is Best?

The best island to visit will depend entirely on your personal preference. The largest island is St Mary's, the archipelago's central hub with a range of shops and restaurants. It is a stepping stone between the mainland and the other islands. The smaller islands are easily accessible, and you can explore them in a week.

The four smaller islands, St Agnes, Bryher, Tresco and St Martin's, are easy to reach via a ferry from Hugh Town Quay, so your journey from the mainland might take a little longer. However, you will be rewarded with a more individual experience. St Agnes is the smallest of the inhabited islands and rests at the edge of the archipelago, which directly faces the Atlantic. Bryher is the second smallest island and, like St Agnes, has a rugged atmosphere, with divine coastlines around Great Par and Rushy Bay holding a delightful mix of sandy bays, fern-clad hills, and granite carbs. It is closer to Tresco, a 5-minute ferry ride away, close enough for you to pop over for a bite or explore local attractions like Abbey Gardens.

If you’re the hardy type of camper who enjoys extreme isolation and jaw-dropping natural beauty, Troytown Farm Campsite is just the place for you.

The enclosing islands shelter Tresco, and although it has an untamed northern end, the southern section of the isle boasts a stunning stretch of coastline called Pentle Beach, often touted as one of the best in the UK. The famous Abbey Gardens Park is its big hitter, and it can seem busy when holidaymakers head over in ferries or take a helicopter ride from Penzance, A Charming Harbour Town. Even in the swing of summer, you're always close to an empty beach, and it is a fine spot for our readers who enjoy wandering from art galleries and cafes to scenic viewpoints.

St Martin's has two diverse landscapes. The north has a wild, uninhabited coastline of high cliffs and coves, while the south has dunes, beaches, and fields extending down to the water's edge. It is a fine spot for families to adventure on kayaks and for walkers who enjoy tackling long stretches.

Whether you want to relax or explore, there's plenty to explore on a trip to the Isles of Scilly. The island has no typical tourist attractions, and the unspoilt islands do not have theme parks or zoos, enticing visitors with tremendous natural and historic attractions.

Can You Take a Campervan to The Scilly Isles?

Peninnis Head

Peninnis Head. Paul

You cannot take campervans or motorhomes to the Isles of Scilly. Driving is permitted on the Isles of Scilly, however the compact size of the islands and transport between them means that touring vehicles are simply too cumbersome and could cause congestion during the busier months of the year. There are very few vehicles on the largest islands, St Marys, and they belong to residents. The other inhabited islands have no vehicles barring pickup trucks and farm vehicles. For a convenient way to get around, consider hiring a golf buggy, or hop on the community bus service around St Marys during the peak holiday seasons.

The Scillonian ferry departing from Penzance takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to reach St Marys, the largest of the inhabited islands. It is the cheapest route to reach the islands. We recommend that our readers prone to seasickness carry Stugeron tablets, munch on ginger nut biscuits, and sip water on the ferry. At present the fees for a ferry from Penzance to St Mary’s is £76.25 for a standard single ticket for an adult and from £42.75 for a child. You can leave your campervan or motorhome at Scillonian Premier Car Park, which is best for trips over one day. Charges for 1 - 3 days are £36.00, and fees of an additional day is £12.00. Parking must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. Nearby, the Penzance Harbour Long Stay Car Park is also an option with long-stay parking for travellers, and it is an easy stroll from the harbour. Honestly, for anyone considering an island hop through the Isles of Scilly National Landscape, campervan hire Plymouth is a game-changer - you get the freedom to explore Devon and Cornwall on your way down.

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  • Isles of Scilly National Landscape Road Trip Itinerary

    One of the most popular attractions is Tresco Abbey Gardens, home to 20,000 exotic species of plants from all over the planet. Expect an explosion of vibrant colours and scents as you wander through beautiful flora designs, with fantastic ocean and island views from the top terrace. You can also purchase a few succulent seedlings to cultivate in your garden.

    If you want to admire beautiful angles of the island on paper or canvas, explore a delightful collection of art galleries across the islands, where you can see beautiful paintings, pottery and jewellery. History buffs are interested in the densest concentration of historical sites anywhere in the UK. Visit burial chambers dating back an impressive 3,000 years, or one of a whopping 239 monuments sprinkled across the islands. Some of the most intriguing are King Charles' Castle, Long Rock Standing Stone on St Mary's and Cromwell's Castle. If you like guided tours, you can always find a local expert to provide insights into your chosen attractions. We highly recommend the Scilly Walks tour, which offers guided walks and boat trips, introducing visitors to the rich history and archaeology of the Isles.

    There are several walking routes ideal for all levels of walkers, winding past historic sites, serene landscapes and quiet beaches. The Garrison Walk on St. Mary’s is a 2-mile circular walk around the landmark Garrison on St. Mary’s. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding islands, including Tresco, Samson, and St. Agnes. Head out for Coastal Walk on St. Martin’s, strolling along breathtaking white sandy beaches like Great Bay and Par Beach. Explore St. Martin’s Daymark, a prominent 17th-century navigational aid offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The walk takes you past dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, where you can stop for a swim in the crystal-clear waters. The Tresco Abbey Gardens and Coastal Trail, a 4-mile route, winds through the world-famous Tresco Abbey Gardens and snakes past picturesque beaches like Pentle Bay and ancient landmarks such as Cromwell’s Castle. Marvel at the contrast between lush gardens and the rugged coastline, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife such as seals and seabirds. These are just some of the walks that offer a range of experiences, from historic exploration to tranquil seaside paths, making the Isles of Scilly a paradise for walkers. The islands are also ideal for cycling, with handy bike rental options available to explore the island at your pace. Cycle through charming villages, coastlines and nature trails. After all this walking and cycling, you'll definitely want to plan your island hop through the Isles of Scilly National Landscape properly - We always recommend the campsites in Plymouth as a launching pad since they're close to the ferry terminal and have decent shower facilities.

    Explore the wealth of beaches, all a ferry ride from one another, and find yourself falling in love with the varied natural beauty of the UK. More than 35 fantastic beaches are spread out across the archipelago, and it is particularly enticing for readers who enjoy private, secluded stretches of coastline. Pentle Bay on Tresco is incredibly romantic, with vast, unspoiled shorelines, while PorthLoo Beach on St. Mary's is great for families and nature lovers to explore rock pools. Great Par on Bryher is another fab space for family days out, while Great Bay on St. Martin's holds often deserted beaches with soft sands and glittering waters. Porthcressa Beach on St Mary's is ideal for swimming and picnicking, while Town Beach on the same island is ideal for beachcombing. Boat watchers can head over to the Bar, which divides St. Agnes and Gugh at low tide, which is a fantastic spot for watching tripper boats come in.

    Wildlife enthusiasts can observe grey seals, one of Europe's most important breeding populations. Head over to St Martins for an unforgettable experience snorkelling with seals on a 2.5-hour trip, which includes a lovely 10-minute boat trip out to the colony and a 10-minute ride back. The islands are home to rare seabirds and unique flora like Scilly Shrew and Elm Grove, which only grow on the islands, creating a delightful playground for aspiring botanists. The islands are great for boat excursions, especially if you want to see puffins, seals, dolphins and more. At night, beautifully unpolluted night skies offer some of the best sightseeing in the country, and plenty of adventures, like bat walks, make exploring an exciting experience on an ancient landscape. Take a boat trip to the uninhabited islands like Samson and Tean, to walk along deserted beaches, and feel completely removed from the rest of the world.

    The Isles of Scilly offer a blend of relaxation, adventure and natural beauty, perfect for exploring at your pace.

    Best Isles of Scilly National Landscape Campsites

    The beautiful settings of the remote Isles of Scilly are best experienced by sitting back and enjoying the scenery around the clock. Why rush to hop on the ferry back to the mainland when there’s so much to discover, literal islands to explore, and many beaches that rival the Caribbean? Please look at our recommended campsites on the Isles of Scilly National Landscape and find a quiet spot to pitch a tent or enjoy the luxuries of a glamping abode. The three campsites below, Bryher Campsite, Garrison Campsite, and St Martins Campsite, rest on three different islands to enjoy a different view and atmosphere every night of your stay. We’ll detail the facilities and features below.

    Bryher Campsite in Bryher

    Bryher Campsite in Bryher

    Bryher Campsite, Bryher

    Bryher Campsite on Bryher Island is a small, tranquil, scenic camping site surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Isles of Scilly. Nestled near the shores of Bryher Island, the smallest of the beautiful Scilly Isles, the site is excellent for enjoying a traditional camping escape with gorgeous views over the Atlantic and a fab location mere minutes from a sandy beach. Sandwiched between two hills, the site is within walking distance of a pub, shop, and local produce stalls. Pitch a tent on spacious pitches with breathtaking sea views, or sit back and enjoy the comforts of a bell tent.

    Garrison Campsite in St. Mary's

    Garrison Campsite in St. Mary's

    Garrison Campsite, St. Mary's

    Garrison Campsite on St. Mary's Island is a scenic and peaceful location surrounded by stunning coastal views. Nestled within the historic Garrison walls, the campsite provides easy access to the Garrison Walk and nearby beaches. Guests can opt to stay in the self-catering cottage or enjoy a glamping escape in roomy, family-sized readi-tents with all the essentials for a comfortable stay. The site is perfect for those who love nature, offering spacious pitches for tents amidst grassy surroundings. Its proximity to Hugh Town and various walking trails makes it ideal for exploring the Isles of Scilly.

    St Martins Campsite in St. Martins

    St Martins Campsite in St. Martins

    St Martins Campsite, St. Martins

    Camping on St. Martin's Campsite on St. Martin's Island is perfect for campers who enjoy an off-the-beaten-path experience surrounded by stunning beaches and clear waters. The campsite has a tent camping area, protected from the elements by sturdy hedges and a cosy timber chalet in a quiet corner of the site. Nearby, you'll find local shops, cafes, and a bakery for essentials. St. Martin's is known for its incredible beaches like Great Bay and Par Beach, and the campsite boasts effortless access to these pristine spots. Visit our campsites page for more UK campsites.

    How to Get to The Isles of Scilly National Landscape in a Campervan

    While everyone is off on holiday, perhaps uploading pictures of a summer break in a tropical location, you’re likely sighing at home, staring glumly through the window of a grey city. If you can’t afford a holiday to a balmy island, you needn’t fret as there’s a fantastic set of islands right at home with a wonderfully temperate climate, flora from all parts of the globe, and powdery white beaches with gorgeously hued oceans waiting to be explored. This section of our blog provides readers with two accessible routes to get you away from the concrete jungles of London, Newcastle upon Tyne, Manchester, Birmingham, and Southampton. Take the scenic route if you have no worries or deadlines, or whizz down on the quickest route there if time is of the essence. We’ll throw in a list of campervan hire locations in and around each town, so you’ve half the hard work done in one short section of our blog. Reignite your sense of adventure, and treat yourself to a cost-effective holiday that feels like you’ve left the shores of the UK without stepping on a plane. Our homepage has everything you need to know about campervan hire across the UK.

    How to Get to The Isles of Scilly National Landscape From London

    St Agnes

    The National Trust Coast Path From White Cliffs to Towanroath, Near St Agnes In Cornwall

    Are you languishing in London on a summer break? Break the monotony with a campervan hire from London and an unforgettable holiday on the Isles of Scilly. With its pristine, often secluded and empty beaches, exceptional experiences like snorkelling with seals, and unique flora, this archipelago is one surefire way to melt away the complexities of modern life. If you’re rushing over on a much-needed bank holiday or summer break, set off from the city via the M4, drive past lush fields to Exeter, and pop onto the A30, which will take you through the beautiful heart of Cornwall to Penzance Harbour in 337 minutes. This is the quickest route to the ferry, and it covers approximately 306 miles. If you’re in no rush, avoid the busy roads, opting to wander southwest on the A303, skirting Salisbury Plain, perhaps stopping to admire Dartmoor’s wilderness before driving into Cornwall’s coastal roads, which lead to the ferry terminal. This route will take around 7 hours but may vary depending on detours. Our campervan hire locations in London include campervans for hire in Southwark.

    Price Per Day: £120 in June, £120 in July, £130 in August.

    Age: 23-75

    Travel: Uk and Europe

    Gearbox: Manual

    Frederick is a beautifully converted, super reliable, incredibly spacious, modern VW Crafter. This van boasts ceilings high enough for the longest humans at foot inches.

    How to Get to The Isles of Scilly National Landscape From Newcastle upon Tyne

    Book a campervan in Newcastle upon Tyne, rumble down to the beautiful Isles of Scilly, and spend balmy days strolling under exotic trees, basking in white-sand beaches, and completely forgetting the complexities of the modern world. Hop on the main roads and head south on the A1, merging onto the M1 past Leeds before driving down M5 and A30, guiding you down to Penzance Harbour in around 480 minutes. The drive covers 484 miles and is perfect for our camping sorts who want to throw off their worries, don swimming attire, and lounge on glorious beaches. If you have more time at hand, make a trip of it by winding your way through the North Pennines and Yorkshire Dales, then follow quiet country roads down to the Cotswolds, and rumble through Dartmoor’s rolling hills, and on to Cornwall. This relaxed route takes around 10 hours to complete and blends pure countryside magic with some of the best beaches in the UK. With a drive time of 8 plus hours, we recommend heading to the archipelago on holidays with plenty of time to spare. Take a peek at 46 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Newcastle upon Tyne.

    Price Per Day: £165 in June, £165 in July, £90 in August.

    Age: 25-75

    Travel: Uk and Europe

    Gearbox: Manual

    Earl is a sleek Volkswagen Transporter T6, fully-converted into a 4 berth camper van in March 2020. No expense spared on this camper van conversion.

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  • How to Get to The Isles of Scilly National Landscape From Manchester

    St Mary's

    St Mary's. Alistair Young

    There’s no need to mope in Manchester when you can hop in a camper and be on sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waters in no time. Book a campervan in Manchester, hop on the M60, then the M6 south. Make your way past rolling hills and then take the M5 towards Exeter, merging with the A30 west. This route is the fastest and guides you across Cornwall’s Moors to the quaint streets of Penzance and down to its harbour. This quickest route takes 382 minutes to complete around 350 miles. As always, we include scenic options for our readers in the mood for relaxed drives. Depart Manchester and follow the A49 south, weaving through picturesque villages. Drive along the A38 past the gentle Cotswolds, then hop on the A39 for wild Atlantic views. Finally, join the A394, where coastal scenery snakes down to the dreamy shores of Penzance Harbour, reaching your destination in approximately 8.5 hours. The hardy drivers can attempt this trip on a bank holiday, however, we feel it would be best to set aside a week or so. We list 68 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Manchester. Our Manchester campervan hire locations include campervans for hire in Rochdale, campervans for hire in Garstang, campervans for hire in Winmarleigh, campervans for hire in Great Eccleston, campervans for hire in Goosnargh, campervans for hire in Forton, campervans for hire in Heywood and campervans for hire in Ingleton.

    Price Per Day: £70 in June, £105 in July, £90 in August.

    Age: 25-70

    Travel: N/A

    Gearbox: Automatic

    Our beautiful VW DSG van for hire comes with everything you need to start your adventure. Look forward to comforts such as bedding.

    How to Get to The Isles of Scilly National Landscape From Birmingham

    If you find yourself bored in Birmingham, why not treat yourself to a lovely vacation where the weather is almost always sunny, the beaches uncrowded, and the seal friendly enough to swim alongside? Hire a campervan in Birmingham and take a 284-minute drive down to Penzance Harbour, where you can board the ferry for the stunning Scilly Islands. Rumble down the M5, merge onto the A30 West, and let the miles melt into Cornwall’s dramatic scenery, covering 279 miles before reaching the ferry terminal. If you want to head down on the Easter holidays or midterms, make a trip of it, heading south on A38, passing through charming villages and rolling hills. Drift onto the A379 and A39, rumbling along the coastline of past Majestic Dartmoor and Cornwall. This drive takes around 6.5 hours to complete. Browse 149 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Birmingham.

    Price Per Day: £115 in June, £115 in July, £115 in August.

    Age: 25-75

    Travel: UK Only

    Gearbox: Manual

    Shona is a VW T6 2.0 Euro 6 TDi Highline, 5 speed manual, short wheelbase campervan with pop top. She is well maintained, fully insured, includes breakdown cover, and is well equipped for your travels.

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  • How to Get to The Isles of Scilly National Landscape From Southampton

    Tresco gardens

    Tresco gardens. Helen@littlethorpe

    There’s no need to sulk in Southampton when you can be sunbathing on the Scilly Isles, a gorgeous collection of islands that make you feel like you’re abroad. If you fancy sipping on wine from beautiful vineyards, exploring a mostly car free archipelago on horseback, and fancy some of the quietest nights with sparkling starry skies, book a campervan in Southampton and whizz down to the Penzance Harbour, pronto! Southampton is quite close to the ferry terminal, making it ideal for weekend breaks, bank holidays, easter vacations and more. If you're in a rush, head west on the M27, merging into the A31, through the lush New Forest. Connect onto the A35, sweeping past Dorset’s verdant hills, before the A30 leads you across Cornwall to the ferry. This route covers 242 miles in approximately 281 minutes. For more stops and relaxing drives, get on the A32 and A30, winding through the heart of Hampshire and Wiltshire’s villages, then onto the A39 along the North Cornish coast, meeting the ocean as you descend into Penzance, taking around 6.5 hours to get there. We offer 120 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Southampton.

    Price Per Day: £70 in June, £120 in July, £90 in August.

    Age: 25-70

    Travel: UK Only

    Gearbox: Manual

    VW T4 Campervan in Woking for hire.Poppy is a VW T4 LWB long wheel base Transporter, newly professionally converted, completed in 2022.She has a Rock and Roll bed sleeps 2, pop top roof sleeps 2 and the cab hammock sleeps 1 child.

    Your Campervan Guide to Visiting The Isles of Scilly National Landscape

    We’re not done with our Isles of Scilly National Landscape just yet. In this part of our blog, we will answer more of your frequently asked questions, like can you wild camp on the Isles of Scilly and can you stay overnight in the Isles of Scilly. A well-informed reader can plan an itinerary that saves time and covers the top attractions to suit personal tastes. Read on as we answer your queries, and provide more insight into an road trip to the Isles of Scilly. Take peak at here for explore more campervans for hire in Isles of Scilly National Landscape.

    Can You Wild Camp on The Isles of Scilly?

    Wild camping on the Isles of Scilly is generally not allowed, as the islands have strict conservation and environmental protection rules. Most land is privately owned, and there are specific areas designated for camping, such as licensed campsites (check out our Isles of Scilly campsites above). It’s always best to stay in official camping areas to ensure the environment is respected and preserved.

    If you're looking for a remote or natural camping experience, consider St. Agnes or Bryher, where campsites offer more of an "off-the-grid" feel while still following the rules.

    Can You Stay Overnight in The Isles of Scilly?

    Yes, you can stay overnight on the Isles of Scilly! Several accommodation options are available, including campsites (the best, in our opinion), self-catering cottages for a more home-like experience, and hostels and bunkhouses for travellers looking for a budget-friendly stay. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment in the peak seasons.

    Hopping on The Ferry Back to The Mainland

    Our Isles of Scilly guide has helped our readers better understand these beautiful islands. We’ve created a flexible itinerary with camping locations on three of the five inhabitable islands, a wealth of attractions to explore, the finest beaches, and the quickest routes from the most significant cities to the archipelago. Leave your campervan or motorhome behind at one of our recommended car parks and head out for a holiday with delightful warm weather, glorious beaches, and wildlife at every turn.

    If you enjoyed this itinerary and want to read more about the stunning National Landscapes peppered across the UK, look at our National Landscape Guide, which includes National Scenic Areas. Next,we explore the Norfolk Coast National Landscape, so stay tuned.

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