Top 6 Castles in Isles Of Scilly Aonb

Star Castle, built in 1593, is an impressive fortress shaped like an eight-pointed star. It forms the core of the larger Garrison fortification system on St Mary's. Today, it operates as a hotel, but visitors can still walk along the Garrison walls, which date from the 16th to 18th centuries, and enjoy breathtaking views. Its unique design and role in defending against Spanish invasion make it historically significant. You can learn more about this site at Star Castle.

Cromwell's Castle, overlooking New Grimsby harbour on Tresco, is a rare surviving Cromwellian fortification. Built between 1651 and 1652, it features a tall, circular gun tower with walls almost 13 feet thick. Visitors can explore the round tower, ascend a spiral staircase to the roof for panoramic views, and see the large 18th-century gun platform. It offers a tangible link to the English Civil War. More details are available at Cromwell's Castle.

Yes, King Charles's Castle on Tresco is a notable ruined artillery fort. Built between 1548 and 1551, it was superseded by Star Castle due to its poor siting. Despite being a ruin, its original layout, including an arched doorway and a large hall with fireplaces, is still discernible. It provides an interesting contrast to Cromwell's Castle and offers excellent vantage points over New Grimsby Sound. You can find more information about this site at King Charles's Castle.

Harry's Walls on St Mary's are the remains of an ambitious, but ultimately unfinished, artillery fort begun in 1551. Intended to defend Hugh Town harbour, it incorporated advanced Italianate-style bastions. The project was never completed, likely due to funding issues. It represents an early attempt at modern fortification on the islands and provides insight into Tudor military planning and the challenges of island defense. The complex is free to visit. Learn more at Harry's Walls.

The Garrison Walls on St Mary's are an extensive defensive system encircling the headland beside Hugh Town. Fortification began in the 1590s with Star Castle and was significantly upgraded over centuries. Visitors can walk much of their length, enjoying preserved fortifications and understanding their strategic role in various conflicts. These walls are a testament to the Isles of Scilly's historical importance.

The Isles of Scilly AONB offers numerous outdoor activities near its historical sites. You can find many hiking and cycling routes. For example, on St Mary's, you can explore the Garrison Walls Trail or the St Mary's loop for cycling. Tresco also has a Tresco cycling loop. These routes often pass by or offer views of the castles and other historical landmarks.

Harry's Walls on St Mary's is considered family-friendly, offering an open space to explore the ruins of an unfinished fortress. The walks along the Garrison Walls, which lead to Star Castle, are also generally accessible and enjoyable for families, providing historical context and scenic views.

The Isles of Scilly generally enjoy a mild climate. The best time to visit for exploring castles and enjoying outdoor walks is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the weather is warmer and more stable. This period is ideal for walking the coastal paths and exploring the islands' historical sites.

Inter-island ferries are the primary mode of transport between the islands of Scilly. These services connect St Mary's to Tresco, St Agnes, Bryher, and St Martin's, allowing visitors to easily access castles like Cromwell's Castle and King Charles's Castle on Tresco, or Star Castle and Harry's Walls on St Mary's.

Yes, beyond the castles, the Isles of Scilly AONB also features ancient sites like the Innisidgen Burial Chamber. This prehistoric ritual site from the Iron or Bronze Age offers another fascinating glimpse into the islands' long history, complementing the later military fortifications.

Many of the castles and fortifications in the Isles of Scilly AONB offer spectacular panoramic views. From the Garrison Walls and Star Castle on St Mary's, you can see across the Atlantic and to the surrounding islands. Cromwell's Castle and King Charles's Castle on Tresco provide excellent vantage points over New Grimsby Sound.

Visitors frequently highlight the combination of rich history and stunning natural beauty. They enjoy walking the ancient walls, exploring the unique architecture, and taking in the breathtaking coastal views. The sense of being in the middle of the Atlantic, surrounded by lively ferry traffic and picturesque bays, adds to the overall experience.