Walk Scilly Festival

Step into Another World:

The Isles of Scilly and Walk Scilly Festival.

 

There’s an archipelago just 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall where life slows down, where the air smells of salt and sea thrift, and where the only traffic jams involve a few curious seals. Welcome to the Isles of Scilly - an unspoiled paradise that feels a world away from mainland Britain. This April, the islands came alive with the annual Walk Scilly Festival, a celebration of nature, history, and adventure on foot.

Environmental documentary filmmaker and Blundstone Ambassador Ted Simpson pulled on his boots and explored Scilly during the festival. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for an unforgettable escape, Walk Scilly is a chance to experience a wilder side of Britain.

A Hidden Gem on England’s Coastline

Scilly is made up of five inhabited islands - St. Mary’s, Tresco, St. Martin’s, St. Agnes, and Bryher - plus countless smaller islets. Each island has its own distinct personality, from the subtropical gardens of Tresco to the wild, rugged coastline of Bryher. With Isles of Scilly Travel, the journey itself is part of the magic, whether you arrive by water in the Scillonian III passenger ferry from Penzance or a flight from Exeter, Newquay, or Land’s End.

Walk Scilly: The Ultimate Island Experience

For one week every spring, Walk Scilly brings together adventurers, nature lovers, and history buffs for a programme of guided walks across the islands. This was no ordinary hiking festival - imagine traversing deserted beaches at low tide, following ancient smugglers’ routes, or learning about Scilly’s unique wildlife from expert guides.

The festival offers something for all abilities, from gentle coastal strolls to more challenging hikes over rocky headlands. Along the way, walkers discover Bronze Age burial sites, tales of shipwrecks, and explore islands guided by locals. And in true Scillonian style, each day often ends in a cosy pub with a local ale in hand.

An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream

For those who love the outdoors, the Isles of Scilly offer year-round adventure. Crystal-clear waters make for incredible kayaking and paddleboarding, while white sand beaches rival the Caribbean. Wildlife lovers spot puffins, dolphins, and even basking sharks. And for the truly daring, sea swimming in the Atlantic is as refreshing as it is exhilarating.

Join Visit Isles of Scilly for a very special Walk Scilly in 2026 as they celebrate the festival’s 20th anniversary from 10th - 19th April - a week of unforgettable island adventures, expert-led walks, and breathtaking scenery.

Win an Unforgettable Isles of Scilly Getaway.

Enjoy an amazing opportunity to experience the Isles of Scilly. Enter the competition now for your chance to experience a wilder side of Britain.

The prize package includes:

Two adult return tickets aboard Scillonian III passenger ferry with two nights’ accommodation for two at Mincarlo, two pairs of Blundstone boots and more!

Competition closes midnight, Saturday 31 May 2025.

To enter this incredible competition follow the Enter Competition link below. Full T&C’s can be found at visitislesofscilly.com website competition page.

ENTER COMPETITION

Follow in Ted’s Footsteps

• Travel to the islands with Isles of Scilly Travel

• Stay at Mincarlo on St Mary’s and bask in glorious coastal views in the Sauna with Adventure Scilly.

To learn more about the Isles of Scilly check out www.visitislesofscilly.com.

To learn more about Ted Simpson's stories from the wild edges check out www.scout-studio.co.uk