Attractions and places to see around St Martin'S, one of the Isles of Scilly, offer a unique blend of natural beauty and historical sites. This island destination features subtropical gardens, historic fortifications, and picturesque quays. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from lush plant collections to coastal beaches and ancient castles. The region provides opportunities for exploring unique island life and maritime history.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Popular around St Martin'S
A wonderful collection of tropical plants in a perfectly landscaped park. Easily accessible by bike from the pier via the paved road along the coast, it's a must-see for day trips.
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Original and unusual crossing of the runway head, regulated by traffic lights and horn 🛫
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Pay attention to the acoustic warning signalling aircraft take-off and do not walk on the runway
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A beautiful island with a campsite
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The Firethorn transports visitors from St Mary's to Bryher and neighbouring Tresco. Boats run every day, but tides and weather alter the timing, so check the timetable for your travel days, this is posted at the pier the day before. There is always a boat from St Mary's to Bryher about half an hour after the Scillonian arrives from Penzance. Boats land at either the low water quay here or the high-water quay a bit further south on the same coast. The timetable boards will tell you which one to expect.
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There is a hotel in the Star Castle. But you can climb the ring of walls and admire the view.
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Beautiful ancient gardens laid out by Augustus Smith, Lord Proprietor of the Scillys, next to his stately home in the 19th century. Today the garden is home to over 2000 species of tropical and subtropical plants.
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Beautiful castle overlooking the water. In general, it's nice to walk across the island, the sailing boats in the bays, the lively ferry traffic, the harbor lies like a beehive, the awareness of being here in the middle of the Atlantic. A dream.
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Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Tresco Abbey Garden is a popular choice with its extensive plant collections and red squirrels. Additionally, the quays like Bryher Low Water Quay and Higher Town Quay serve as transport hubs and offer access to beautiful island settings, ideal for leisurely family outings.
You can delve into history at Tresco Abbey Garden, which was created in the 19th century and houses the Walhalla Museum with shipwrecked figureheads. Another significant historical site is Star Castle, an old fort with a colorful history offering panoramic views and opportunities to walk along its Garrison walls.
The region boasts unique natural beauty. Tresco Abbey Garden is a natural monument featuring over 20,000 plant species. For a more adventurous natural experience, Piper's Hole Cave presents a challenging exploration opportunity at sea level, surrounded by myths and legends.
There are several easy walking routes available. You can explore options like the 'St Mary's Prehistoric loop via Bant's Carn & Innisidgen Burial Chamber' or the 'Cromwell's Castle – Gallery Tresco loop from Tresco'. For more details and other easy routes, refer to the Easy hikes around St Martin'S guide.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Piper's Hole Cave is a natural monument described as challenging, accessible only by climbing on rocks at sea level. It's important to exercise caution and inform someone before attempting to explore it.
Beyond exploring attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with routes ranging from easy to moderate. There are also dedicated running trails. For more information on routes and their difficulties, check out the Hiking around St Martin'S guide and Running Trails around St Martin'S guide.
Visitors frequently praise the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The subtropical gardens of Tresco Abbey Garden are a highlight, as are the panoramic views and historical insights offered by Star Castle. The picturesque quays like Bryher Low Water Quay are also appreciated for their beauty and role in island transport.
Yes, Higher Town Quay is listed as wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for those with mobility needs to enjoy the coastal views and island atmosphere. It serves as a landing point for inter-island boats.
Absolutely. Star Castle is a prominent viewpoint, offering beautiful panoramic views overlooking the water, sailing boats, and lively ferry traffic. It provides a fantastic perspective of the surrounding islands and the Atlantic.
Inter-island boats are the primary mode of transport. Quays like Bryher Low Water Quay and Higher Town Quay are landing points. Boat timings are adjusted for tides and weather, so it's advisable to check the timetable posted at the pier the day before your travel.
Hiking trails around St Martin'S vary in difficulty. You can find easy routes like the 'Lower Town Quay – View of St Martin’s Flats loop' and moderate options such as the 'Lower Town, St Martin's Head & Higher Town loop'. For a comprehensive overview of routes and their difficulty grades, consult the Hiking around St Martin'S guide.
Yes, Tresco Abbey Garden is a truly unique destination. This 19th-century subtropical garden, located 48 km off the coast of Cornwall, features an astounding 20,000 plants from various Mediterranean climate zones, with over 300 species often in bloom even during winter.


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