ISLES OF SCILLY

 The archipelago of the Scilly Isles, 28 miles west of Land's End, numbers around 150 islands, but only five are inhabited by people; many others are home to colonies of seals and seabirds. These share a mild yet windbeaten climate, lovely white beaches, clean, yet chilly seas, much birdlife and a profusion of flowers, both wild and commercially grown daffodils and narcissi. Otherwise, they are distinctively individual.

Porthcressa Bay, St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly

 

Most people live on St. Mary's at up to 3 miles wide the largest island. Passenger launches depart for the other island from the little capital, Hugh Town. Star Castle was built in Tudor times against the Spanish and can be explored. Paths allow to follow the bays and headlands of the beautiful coastline - Peninnis Head is the most dramatic feature - and to search out the many prehistoric burial chambers in the interior.

LAND'S END

Land’s End, the westernmost tip of Britain, known for its savage land- and seascapes and panoramic views. Each year over one million visitors journey to Land's End, mainland Britain's south-west tip. Come at sunset or in clear weather, when you can spot the offshore lighthouses or maybe even the Isles of Scilly, 28 miles out to sea. Don't worry about the crowds or the insensitivity of a theme park being sited here: you can leave them all behind on a short walk along the cliffs. The scenic grandeur of Land’s End remains undiminished.

Received from Thomas Goatherd