Herm Island, Channel Islands

Herm is a tiny island, just one and a half miles long, and is often described as 'The Jewel in the Channel Islands' Crown'. Imagine an island with glorious white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise sea, gentle rolling countryside dotted with a few farm buildings, and no cars, and you have a pretty accurate picture of Herm . . .

The Scilly Isles are a small group of islands lying 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall comprising St Mary's, St Martin's, St Agnes, Bryher, Tresco and several uninhabited smaller isles. We feature hotels on the beautiful island of St Mary's. Inter-island boat ferries make day trips between the islands an enjoyable part of your stay in the Scillies. Travel to the islands is by ferry from Penzance to St Mary's, by helicopter from Penzance to St Mary's or Tresco or by air to St Mary's from Southampton, Bournemouth, Bristol, Exeter, Newquay and Lands End. Further travel details on the island pages.

St Mary's

St Mary’s is the largest island in the Scillies and for centuries, has been the hub of daily life on ‘The Fortunate Isles’. The Scillonian ferry travels on weekdays to St Mary's, and Saturdays in the summer season, and from here boat trips can be taken to the other islands. Nine miles of narrow roads link St Mary’s offering easy walking and cycling, while off the beaten track, numerous nature trails and coastal paths take you through woodlands, heaths, wetlands, rocky headlands and sand-dunes thick with marram grasses and wild agapanthus flowers from Africa. The beautiful curve of Old Town Bay with its sheltered beach, village shop, pub and cafes encompasses the tiny Old Church, still lit only by candles for its services. Hugh Town is the centre of island life and offers banks, shops, pubs, a museum and a variety of places to eat, as well as shops and galleries selling contemporary and traditional arts and crafts.

Jersey, Channel Islands

The island of Jersey is the most southerly point in the British Isles. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, its unique climate gives rise to a wonderful variety of flora and fauna more commonly found in the Mediterranean. A coastline of golden beaches and crystal clear seas, complemented by beautiful countryside and plenty of sunshine, makes Jersey an attractive destination, particularly for families seeking a traditional seaside holiday. Short flights and fast ferries from the mainland bring the island within easy reach.