18 Sep |
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 Well, I’ve just got back from discovering a little corner of the United Kingdom that definitely deserves more of our attention. Lying 28 miles or so off Land’s End in Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly are further from the English coast than France is from Dover, and it certainly feels like another country. Like Scotland, perhaps… only, with sunshine. Rugged islands, pastoral fields, tiny lanes between the hedgerows, waterside pubs, quaint cottages... There’s little you won’t like about the Scillies I reckon. It could also be one of the best options for a family holiday in England. There’s lots to do (most of it outdoors, so PlayStation kids; stay home rather) and the islands have outstanding beaches (deserted) with clear water (think Maldives clear) brilliant for swimming. When it’s warm enough, of course. That said, the Scillies get more sunshine than anywhere else in the UK. They also lie close to the tendrils of the warm Gulf Stream, so the climate is almost sub-tropical for most of the year. You either fly in (helicopter or plane, each takes about 15-20 minutes) or grab the Scillonian ferry from Penzance. Once you’re there it’s walking, taxis and boats to get around… you can’t hire cars on any of the islands, but they’re all small enough to explore on foot or bicycle. Visit http://www.simplyscilly.co.uk to find out more. And that pic? It’s of the Abbey Gardens on the island of Tresco… not bad for the UK, eh? Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites            |