Isles of Scilly

Most places to stay on the Isles of Scilly sit on St Mary's, and Hugh Town is the natural base, putting you within walking distance of the quay, shops and the boats out to the smaller islands. Options here range from harbourside rooms at The Atlantic and Tregarthens Hotel to the more characterful Star Castle Hotel, set within a 16th-century fort just above the town.

Beyond the harbour, Appletree and St Marys Hall Hotel offer a quieter alternative while still being an easy walk from Hugh Town's restaurants and ferries. As accommodation is limited across the archipelago, booking ahead matters, particularly in summer when the off-island boats are busiest.

The Isles of Scilly reward slow days more than a checklist of sights. Beaches double as the main attraction here, from Pentle Bay's white sand on Tresco to the open Atlantic views along The Bar and Cove Vean near St Mary's, and Bryher's shoreline facing out towards the smaller isles.

With no cars to speak of and everything reached on foot, by boat or golf buggy, days out tend to be built around walking between coves and headlands rather than driving to a single spot. Families with children will find St Mary's Play Park a useful base for a shorter outing, while the beaches suit anyone happy to spend a whole afternoon in one place, watching boats move between the islands.

Eating out on Scilly follows the boats and the tides, with most restaurants, pubs and cafes concentrated on St Mary's around Hugh Town and its quays. Expect fresh seafood, simple daytime cafes and a handful of proper dining rooms, from the harbourside informality of the Gig Shed Cafe to sit-down meals at Clubhouse Bistro and Olivias Kitchen At The Vine.

Beyond the main town, places like Juliet's Garden and Carn Vean Tearooms make the most of their island views, while Polreath Tea Room And Guest House and Kavorna Cafe suit a slower lunch or afternoon tea. For a quick bite between boat trips, Adams Fish & Chips and Horton's Takeaway are reliable choices.

Given the islands' small size, it's worth checking opening days and times before setting out, as many places work around ferry and inter-island launch schedules rather than staying open all day.