Arriving, the Harbour and Island Hopping

Most visitors arrive in Hugh Town. By the water, there are cafés and welcoming pubs, along with views across the harbour. You can combine your arrival with a break by the water or a first look at the harbour.

The Isles of Scilly Tourist Information Centre is an easy walk from St. Mary's Quay through Hugh Town. After Hugh Street Café, take the right-hand fork at the junction towards Porthcressa Beach. Ahead is the Schiller Shelter, with its green roof and public toilets below. There you can find maps, local information and tips on things to do on the Scilly Isles. You can also get tickets for boats between the islands and advice on island hopping. As local access information can change, check the latest guidance before your visit. During the summer months, the St. Mary's Community Bus runs from Hugh Town several times a day. Check the latest seasonal timetable before travelling.

A Hotel with Architectural History

Star Castle Hotel dates from 1593 and shows alterations from the late 17th century. These two dates show that its architectural history spans more than one phase.

Architecture and Island History

The Pier in Hugh Town is a listed quay with a breakwater and a Grade II designation. The Town Hall was built in 1889 by J. Goodfellow. The Post Office also has an unusual, almost Alpine style. Together, these buildings show different facets of the townscape: a quay, the Town Hall and the distinctive architectural character of the Post Office.

On St. Mary's, the defensive walls of Garrison Walls have a 350-year history. The Powder House at Garrison Walls houses an exhibition about the history of the garrison. Hugh House adds to this historical story: it was built in 1792 as the officers' mess for the garrison and later became the first home of Augustus Smith, the Lord Proprietor of the islands.

Another cultural destination is Tamarisk in the centre of Hugh Town. It showcases fused glasswork, paintings, ceramics, feltwork and jewellery by artists from Scilly and Cornwall. The artists involved may change.

Beaches for Different Activities

Porthcressa is one of the most easily accessible beaches from Hugh Town. You can sunbathe, try stand-up paddleboarding or go wild swimming there; sea conditions vary. Town Beach by the quay offers a different focus: you can beachcomb and watch the activity around you. So, if you're choosing between the two beaches, the activity you're looking for can help you decide.

Discover more destinations: Tresco, St. Mary’s.

Return to the main travel overview: Scilly Isles.