Tresco Island - Isles of Scilly

Measuring just two and half miles long and a mile wide, Tresco is one of the five inhabited island of the Isles of Scilly.

Situated less than 30 miles off the Cornish coast, Tresco is a beautiful, family-owned island boasting unspoilt sandy beaches, clear azure waters, tropical gardens and world class accommodation. It’s a safe, peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The island has a wide selection of accommodation for guests wanting to stay a few days – or even a few weeks. With convenient air and sea links, Tresco also welcomes day visitors from the mainland and nearby islands.

You'll be spoilt for choice for places to eat out, with The New Inn, Boathouse Bar and Restaurant and the Ruin Beach Café all serving varied menus featuring the finest local produce. There is also a wide selection of delicious fare at the Tresco Stores & Delicatessen. During the summer months regular popup food events take place across the island, including the unique “Low Tide Event” mid-channel between Tresco and the neighbouring island of Bryher. In fact, Tresco has an extensive events programme throughout the year, ranging from live music to open air theatre, a triathlon to ale festivals.

The island is best known for the exceptional Abbey Garden, featuring plants from more than 80 countries, many of which would not survive on the mainland but thrive in Tresco’s temperate climate. It is commonly known as ‘Kew without a roof’ and is open every day, all-year round. Visitors to the garden can also see the Valahalla collection of figureheads from ships wrecked off the Scillies over the past 200 years.

Tresco is a car-free island and visitors get about either on foot or by hiring bikes. Tresco is criss-crossed by footpaths and paved roadways, so every part of the island is easily accessible. Despite its size, it offers extraordinary natural variety. There are arcs of white sand on its shore, whilst inland there is heathland, lush greenery, woodland and even a seventeenth century castle and other historic buildings to explore.

Naturally water sports are a popular pastime for visitors and locals alike. Hire a sailing dinghy, kayak or SUP board from the sailing school or hop aboard a spectator boat for the weekly gig races. Fishing is also popular off the beaches and shores, with fishing trips are available in summer.

Located in the most enviable of positions on New Grimsby shoreline, Gallery Tresco is a haven for art lovers. Some of Cornwall’s finest art can be found on the walls of this light and airy converted boatshed, which has been open for over 20 years. In addition, Tresco’s extensive art collection is housed across the island, in holiday cottages, restaurants and even in the Abbey Garden.