The Scilly archipelago, in the southwest of England, is a real jewel. It includes more than 140 islands and islets, 5 of which are inhabited: St Agnes, St Mary's, Tresco, St Martin's and Bryher. Among them, the anchorages of Tresco are a must.
Anchoring in the West in New Grimbsy
Sailing boats can easily anchor in New Grimsby, between Tresco and Bryher, on the buoys. However, it costs between 20 and 30 pounds per night and, if you anchor around the buoys, it will cost you 5 pounds. Few services are available. However, near the pier, you will find public toilets and a water tap.
In the village, the New Inn, bar hotel restaurant, has a special rate for the crews of the boats at anchor. You will be able to take a shower, or even a bath, if you wish. A grocery store and other small shops will allow you to get supplies at the price of the islands. You will also find, just about everywhere, very practical containers for garbage and recycling!
Anchor east in Old Grimsby
On the east side of the island, in Old Grimsby, anchoring can be done either on a paying buoy or on an anchor a little further from the village, but within reach of a dinghy. The sandy bottom is excellent and accessible even with a good draft.
There are few shops on this side of Tresco. However, you can have a drink or a meal with your feet in the sand at the Ruin Beach Cafe. Also, if you want to go to the grocery store, it only takes about 12 minutes to cross the island.
Visit the island of Tresco
Ideally, even if one day is enough, it is better to plan two days to go around the island. Indeed, in the southern half of the island you will admire the abbey gardens, a true marvel of subtropical vegetation, absolutely amazing under Anglo-Saxon skies! You can also watch birds from the three observation points near the pond. These beautiful walks will take you through lovely little paths lined with fields and hedgerows.
In the northern half you will climb to the top of Cromwell's Castle and enjoy the view from King Charles' Castle before walking across the moor where many rabbits frolic. You can then reach the Old Blockhouse, a tower of arms dating from the first half of the 16th century, before going to St Nicholas' Church.
Don't forget the countless beaches of Tresco, each one more beautiful than the next, and its pretty cottages full of charm. The lucky ones will also be able to see seals during dinghy transfers and maybe even dolphins.
However, beware of bad weather. The islands of the archipelago being relatively low and the islets and rocks very numerous, it is not good to stay there when the weather is too bad. In this case, it is better to go back to Cornwall. Also, it is difficult to find an anchorage which is not rolling when the swell is really big.
