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Island Hopping on the Isles of Scilly – 7 days

Prices from £2,310 pp

Single Supplement £380

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Join us on a very special pilgrimage to the Isles of Scilly, a place of striking natural beauty, gentle rhythms and deep spiritual resonance. Scattered like precious jewels off the Cornish coast, the
islands have long drawn those in search of peace, simplicity and a closer walk with God. Here, where the sea and sky meet in ever-changing light, pilgrims find space to breathe, reflect and be renewed.

Our journey begins on the mainland in Penzance before we sail across to this enchanting archipelago. Each island offers its own distinct, charm - from the flower-filled lanes of St Martin’s and the tranquil beaches of Bryher, to Tresco’s subtropical gardens and St Mary’s historic heart. With local archaeologist and guide Katharine Sawyer, we will explore the sacred and historic sites that reveal the islands’ long Christian story: ancient chapels hidden in the dunes, Celtic crosses weathered by time, and churches that continue to be places of welcome and worship.

Along the way, we’ll share in times of prayer and reflection, moments of fellowship and gentle walks amid stunning coastal scenery. There will be opportunities to learn from the islands’ unique
ecology and culture, to meet local residents, and to pause in quiet contemplation beside the sea.

This pilgrimage offers a rare chance to slow down - to open heart and mind to God’s presence in the natural world and to one another. Whether gathered in worship, walking ancient paths, or simply sitting in stillness as the tide ebbs and flows, we will discover together the timeless beauty and spiritual depth of these remarkable islands.

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Itinerary

  1. Independent travel to Penzance

    Make your own way to Penzance with check-in from 3pm onwards at Hotel Penzance. This evening meet your fellow pilgrims and tour leader for for a welcome drink followed by dinner.

  2. Ferry to the Isles of Scilly; afternoon walking tour

    This morning we board our coach and drive to the ferry port at Penzance and catch our ferry to the Isles of Scilly. We’ll meet our guide for the trip, Katharine Sawyer, and have a light lunch at a cafe close by. We then begin our afternoon with a gentle walk to Lower Moors, a tranquil wetland reserve rich in birdlife and natural beauty. From here, we follow the nature trail towards Old Town, the island’s original settlement and a place of quiet reflection. We pause to view the remains of Ennor Castle, once a Norman stronghold and the only medieval castle on the Isles of Scilly. Continuing on, we visit Old Town Church, where Harold Wilson, former Prime Minister and friend of the islands, is buried in the churchyard. Then we ascend Buzza Hill, where sweeping views reward our climb. Here, we see the restored Windmill and visit the ancient Bronze Age Burial Chamber. Then we check in to the Bell Rock Hotel in Hugh Town, where we’ll be based for the next four nights.

  3. Travel to Tresco

    This morning we take the boat from St. Mary’s to the beautiful island of Tresco. Our first stop is the Tresco Abbey Garden, a stunning sub-tropical haven filled with rare and exotic plants from around the world. Explore at your own pace, or if you prefer, join a guided tour with a local expert. After lunch (at own cost) we continue to St. Nicholas Church, where we pause for a short reflection. From here, we explore the Old Blockhouse, a 16th century fort that once guarded the channel between Tresco and Bryher. We then enjoy a gentle walk along the east coast, taking in views of white sand beaches, clear waters and dramatic rock formations - an inspiring reminder of the raw beauty and stillness of island life. We return by boat to St. Mary’s in the late afternoon, with time to rest and reflect before dinner at the Bell Rock Hotel.

  4. St Martin’s and Teän

    This morning we sail to the beautiful island of St Martin’s, known for its white-sand beaches and vibrant community spirit. Our first stop is the Island
    Church, where we’ll pause for a short visit. We then enjoy a fascinating talk on seaweed and its many health benefits, discovering how this humble plant plays a vital role in island life. Afterwards, we visit the charming Churchtown Flower Farm for a guided tour among the colourful blooms that have made St Martin’s famous. After lunch (not included), we take a short boat ride to the neighbouring uninhabited island of Teän. Here we explore the ruins of the chapel of St Theona and its ancient cemetery, set against breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. We end our afternoon with a quiet time of reflection and meditation on the beach, before returning by boat to St Mary’ for dinner at the Bell Rock Hotel.

  5. Visit Bryher Island

    This morning we travel by boat to the peaceful island of Bryher, the smallest of the inhabited Isles of Scilly. Our day begins at All Saints’ Church, where we join the local congregation for Sunday Eucharist. After the service, we share coffee and conversation with some of the island’s residents, enjoying a glimpse into daily life on this close-knit island community. We then continue to the Hell Bay Hotel, beautifully set overlooking the Atlantic, for a relaxing lunch with a view. After lunch (not included), we take a scenic walk along the southern shoreline, passing Rushy Bay’s golden sands, with an optional climb up Samson Hill for panoramic views across the archipelago. We return by boat to St Mary’s in the late afternoon for dinner at the Bell Rock Hotel.

  6. Morning service then ferry back to Penzance

    This morning, we gather for a farewell service at the Methodist Chapel, followed by some free time to enjoy Hugh Town one last time. In the afternoon, we walk to the harbour for our return journey to Penzance. After collecting our luggage, we transfer by coach to our hotel for our final night. Dinner at Hotel Penzance.

  7. Check out

    After breakfast we say our farewells and head home.

Essential Information

The cost for this seven day tour is £2,310 per person. The cost is based on sharing a double or twin-bedded room and doesn’t include your travel to and from Penzance. Single rooms for this trip are available at a supplement of £380.

This tour includes:
• Two nights in Hotel Penzance
• Four nights in the Bell Rock Hotel in St. Marys
• Six breakfasts, one lunch and six dinners are included
• Entrance fees as per itinerary
• All transfers are included as per the itinerary
• Gratuities are included and will be disbursed locally

Special requests
Any special requirements, such as dietary needs, mobility requests, and any other requests should be noted at the time of booking.

Payments
A £500 per person non-refundable deposit is payable on confirmation. After which, an instalment payment amounting to 50% of the total cost of your trip is due 26 weeks prior to departure with the final balance due twelve weeks prior to departure.

Final travel documents
These will be emailed to you two weeks before departure.

Travel insurance
Travel insurance is essential. We require all travellers to have adequate cancellation and medical coverage for their journey. We are partnered with Holiday Extras who offer a comprehensive policy as well as yearly policies that also cover short UK overnight stays.

Mobility
The Isles of Scilly are outstandingly beautiful and unspoilt. Consequently, you will find that the destination does not offer the same facilities as on the mainland and guests will need a level of mobility to access the ferries and enjoy the islands. Guests will encounter gradients and rough terrain. We encourage you to consider your personal health and comfort when planning your adventure, and we’re happy to help if you have any specific concerns or questions about the suitability of a tour for your needs.

Bell Rock Hotel
The most southerly hotel in England, the Bell Rock Hotel is located just a short walk from Porthcressa Beach and the harbour. This is an
historical building which has been welcoming guests for over 100 years and is renowned for its caring staff. The licensed hotel is in a quiet and central position and beaches are only about 100 yards away. The hotel boasts an indoor swimming pool and has a residents lounge.

Please note that there are no lifts at both hotels and there are steps leading into the entrance of the Bell Rock Hotel.

Practical information

About McCabe Pilgrimages
McCabe has been arranging journeys of faith, culture and spirituality for over 40 years with an unwavering focus on attention to detail and service. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and aspirations of Christian travellers, McCabe strive to make every trip a memorable and meaningful experience. McCabe Travel Ltd. trades as McCabe Pilgrimages.

McCabe Travel Ltd. is registered in England and Wales. Registered No. 2125334. VAT No: 318527355. Registered office address: McCabe Travel, The
Square, Basing View, Basingstoke, RG21 4EB.

The McCabe Educational Trust
The McCabe Educational Trust is an independent registered charity which was set up in 1991 to support Christian communities. To date the Trust has distributed more than £4 million in grants. McCabe Pilgrimages supports the Trust directly by contributing to the administrative and running costs, thus ensuring all pilgrim donations are able to go directly to the important projects supported by the MET. In 2026 McCabe Pilgrimages will once again invite all pilgrims to make a voluntary donation of £20. In addition, McCabe will also donate £20 for every pilgrim who travels with us - regardless of whether they choose to donate - effectively doubling the impact when you do.

Please note: This scheme is voluntary and confidential. No pilgrim is under pressure to participate.

Financial security
All monies paid are fully protected through McCabe’s membership of the ABTOT bonding scheme. In addition, McCabe are also members of the Association of Independent Tour Operators and abide by the Association’s code of conduct.

Holiday insurance
Ensuring that your holidays are appropriately protected is one of our main priorities. That’s why we have partnered with Holiday Extras so you can get a travel insurance quote to protect you before and whilst you are travelling.

Holiday Extras Cover Ltd is authorised and, regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and has been independently rated 5-stars by Defaqto.

For more information or to obtain a quote, please go to their website at www.holidayextras.com/travel-insurance or call them on 0800 083 3551
to speak to a friendly advisor.

Please quote AG628 when you call for a 10% discount.

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