Isles of Scilly Guided Walking with Sightseeing

Walking with sightseeing in isles of Scilly

6 nights

Apr, May - Oct

Grades 2

100kg CO2

6 nights from

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Members

From

£1,459

 

Non-members

From

£1,489

 

Groups of 10+

or call

020 3974 8865

Little beats the Isles of Scilly for dazzling white sand beaches, translucent turquoise waters, dramatic headlands, and a beautiful interior dotted with prehistoric sites. For those keen to hop from island to island and experience the very best of what each has to offer, this is the perfect introduction to the archipelago. Highlights include Gugh for its Bronze Age monument, St Mary’s for an exploration of the island capital, Hugh Town, St Martin’s for its lovely stretches of sand, and Tresco for Abbey Garden – a botanical paradise with more than 3,000 species of plants and trees.

What You’ll Love

  • Spending time at Tresco Abbey Garden and the Valhalla Museum
  • Exploring the archaeological sites on Gugh 
  • Discovering the charm of St Mary's and St Martin's 
  • Birdwatching and walking on the wild and rugged Bryher 
  • Soaking up stunning views of the sea and the sky 
  • Visiting St Agnes on the archipelago’s south-westerly edge 
  • A more personalised experience thanks to small group sizes (maximum 16 people)

What's Included

  • Comfortable en-suite rooms in our partner accommodation(s) 
  • Cooked or continental breakfast every morning 
  • Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee  
  • Guided walks with an experienced HF Holidays Leader 
  • All transport to and from walks where necessary 

Trip Suitability

This Guided Walking/Hiking Trail is graded 2 with walks/hikes on good paths, though often quite a distance each day. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the relevant fitness required to join this holiday.

Itinerary

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Your HF Holidays Leader will gather the group in the lounge at 6pm, for a warm welcome and quick introduction to the holiday before dinner.

The daily itinerary has to be very flexible as our itinerary, like life on Scilly, is determined by weather and tide. We have provided you an outline of the selection of walks on each of the islands which could be included in the itinerary. There are lots of things to see on each island, so some of the walks are not as lengthy as others. The holiday runs at a relaxing pace so that you get a real flavour of island life.

This is the second largest of the islands. Tresco and its garden are world-renowned and attract many visitors each year. We will see white sand beaches and a panorama of islands from the coastal path and explore the north of the island with its wild heathland, rocky coastlines and 16th and 17th century castles. There will be the chance to visit Abbey Garden (payable locally) and explore the world renowned collection of sub-tropical plants, and also to see the Valhalla museum – housing figureheads salvaged from shipwrecks from around the islands’ shores.

6 miles (9.5km) with 550ft (160m) of ascent.

Surrounded by rocks and reefs, St Agnes is the most south-westerly community in the UK, where the whitewashed lighthouse and traditional stone cottages tumble down to tiny bulb fields, and pocket sized farms. Our circular walk will take us past the old lifeboat station, Troytown Maze, a labyrinth laid out in beach pebbles, and the granite outcrop of the Nag’s Head. From the coastal path we will have impressive views of the treacherous Western Rocks and the famous Bishop Rock lighthouse. A visit to Gugh (pronounced like the name Hugh, but with a G) is determined by the tide. This small island is home to a bounty of archaeological sites.

5 miles (8km) with 500ft (150m) of ascent.

Though the third largest of the islands, St Martin’s is a narrow island only 2 miles long. Easily recognisable from its fine shimmering white sandy beaches, the shores of St Martin’s have the longest stretches of sand in Scilly. Following the coastal path takes us past kelp pits, through scented gorse heathlands, to stone and rope labyrinths. We follow the sandy shore of Little Bay and Great Bay, before turning inland to the flower fields and glasshouses of Higher Town. We also head over the golden gorse heathland of Chapel Down to St Martin’s Head with its chapel, Daymark and ruined Signal Station.

6½ miles (10.5km) with 550ft (170m) of ascent.

Our walk circumnavigates the Islands’ hub of St Mary’s, starting out from our base in Hugh Town. We explore the coastline, passing by the archaeological sites of Bant’s Carn and Innisidgen, the granite tors of Porth Hellick and Peninnis Head, and the one and only set of traffic lights on the islands, at the airport! Before returning to Hugh Town, the coastal path brings us to Old Town– a favourite haunt and now the resting place of the former Prime Minister Harold Wilson.

10 miles (16km) with 900ft (280m) of ascent.

Bryher is wild, windswept and unkempt, and has a very individual feel to it. Fewer than 100 people live here. There is only one road, and the locals quote the definition of a traffic jam as being “when two tractors meet”! The island has a magnificent variety of scenery, from the wild and rugged Hell Bay in the north, to the peaceful bays and secluded beaches of the south. Our walk will take us across heather moorland, past prehistoric cairns and boulder walls and along sandy coastal paths to see these different sides of Bryher.

5 miles (8km) with 600ft (180m) of ascent.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before check-out at 9:30am.

Daily Walk Options

Grade 2

Easier Walks

Good paths but walks are a bit longer. Some walks, particularly in mountain areas, may have sections over rough or steeper terrain.

Accommodation

Bell Rock Hotel, St Mary's - Isles of Scilly

You will be staying at the Bell Rock Hotel on St Mary’s, the largest of the islands stretching to two-and-a-half miles by one-and-three-quarters. Mid-way between the two beaches of Porthcressa and Town Beach, it is situated on a quiet street, minutes from the shops, and a short stroll from the harbour. The hotel has a small heated indoor swimming pool and good WiFi. Rooms have a hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and a boot tray. Please note, there is no lift in the hotel. The holiday is half board with the opportunity to eat in pubs and cafes at lunchtime, experiencing the local produce, rather than buying a packed lunch.

Food & drink

Our holidays on the Isles of Scilly are half-board, with breakfast and evening meal provided.

Dietary requirements

Our partner hotels can cater for most dietary requirements, but it is important you advise us of any allergies and dietary restrictions you have at the time of booking.

More Information

Walks may be changed for safety reasons and are subject to a maximum and minimum number of guests.

Leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole, and may need to alter or curtail the walk if the conditions dictate. Your leader may refuse to accept a guest where clothing, equipment or behaviour is unsuitable. In the event of a problem all leaders carry a mobile phone, first aid kit, group shelter, spare maps and a compass.

Please note: If you choose to leave the group your leader is no longer responsible for you.

If you have a particular health condition or disability please put this on your guest registration form. This information will be confidential to your leaders and the house manager, but leaders do need to take account of any issues when planning walks. Please carry a copy of these trip notes with you, or note down the contact phone number for your accommodation (details in the travel section) should you need them in case of emergency.

The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next.  To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip  
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket 
  • Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)  
  • Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
  • Waterproof overtrousers  
  • Gloves and a warm hat  
  • Rucksack with waterproof liner 
  • Flask for hot drinks   
  • Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)  
  • Sunscreen  
  • UV sunglasses  

For holidays operating October through to the end of March, please also bring the following on your walks:

  • spare warm clothing
  • spare high energy food
  • head torch and spare batteries
  • please note for the October to March season your waterproof jacket needs to offer a high level of waterproofing and wind resistance, and a hood. Look for a waterproof jacket with sealed/taped seams and a minimum HH (hyrodstatic head - this is the rating given on waterproof jackets) of 10,000mm+

Recommended  

  • Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)  
  • Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters  
  • First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent 
  • Sit mat   
  • Waterproof pouch for valuables  
  • Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)  
  • Wallet/purse  
  • Camera
  • Walking poles
Carbon Footprint

Carbon Footprint - 100kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

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Dates & Prices

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Back to dates

Tue 21 Apr – Mon 27 Apr 2026

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Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 8 May – Thu 14 May 2026

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 22 May – Thu 28 May 2026

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Single Price - Land Only

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Single Supplement

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020 3974 8865

Non-members

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 19 Jun – Thu 25 Jun 2026

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 3 Jul – Thu 9 Jul 2026

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 17 Jul – Thu 23 Jul 2026

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Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 31 Jul – Thu 6 Aug 2026

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 14 Aug – Thu 20 Aug 2026

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 28 Aug – Thu 3 Sep 2026

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 18 Sep – Thu 24 Sep 2026

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Single Supplement

Members

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020 3974 8865

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020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

Fri 2 Oct – Thu 8 Oct 2026

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Members

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Non-members

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020 3974 8865

Single Price - Land Only

Members

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020 3974 8865

Non-members

Call to Enquire

020 3974 8865

Single Supplement

Members

Call to Enquire

020 3974 8865

Non-members

Call to Enquire

020 3974 8865

Itinerary: 6 Nights - Island Hopping

Trip Type: Walking with sightseeing

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.

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Book with confidence

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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Travel with confidence

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

Image

Book with confidence

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

Image

Travel with confidence

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

Image

HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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