The Isles of Scilly - Once seen never forgotten

The Isles of Scilly lie some 28 miles southwest of Land's End and everyone visiting Cornwall should make a point of visiting at least one of them. There are 8 large islands (the 5 biggest are inhabited) and over 100 smaller isles and rocks. What constitutes an island and what a rock is a matter of debate. Most people agree that there are about 40 actual islands, the remainder more properly called rocks. I will attempt to describe some of the better known islands that collectively make up the Isles of Scilly. They are, in order of size, St. Mary's; Tresco; St. Martin's; St. Agnes & The Gugh; Bryher and Gweal;Samson and Annet. The smaller islands include St. Helen's; White Island; Teän (pronounced tee-ann); Great Ganilly; Great & Little Arthur; Guther's Island; Menawethan; Puffin Island; Rosevear; Gorregan; Round Island and Great & Little Gannick. Other islands are little more than rocks, a few of the best known being:- Bishop's Rock; Men-a-Vaur; Nornour; Mincarlo; Illiswilgig and Hard Lewis. Two excellent guides to the islands are the Friendly Map & Guide to exploring the Isles of Scilly and Walking in the Isles of Scilly by Paddy Dillon.

The Scillonian III docked at Rat Island, St. Mary's

A Scillonian Garden near The Garrison, St. Mary's

The islands have a mild climate as they are bathed by the 'Gulf Stream' running across the Atlantic Ocean up from the Gulf of Mexico. Tresco is home to the world famous 'Tresco Abbey Gardens' - you must visit. Their rugged scenery and myriad of small islands along with the chance to see rare seabirds and seals make the Isles of Scilly one of my favourite destinations.