THE INHABITED ISLANDS

There are four inhabited islands besides St Mary’s, with Tresco being the second largest at 1.15 sq miles. It boasts numerous Civil War sites, including King Charles’ Castle, a 16th century fort. Tresco is perhaps best known for its Abbey Gardens, a sub-tropical paradise, home to species from Brazil to New Zealand. St Martin’s is the northernmost of the archipelago and splits its population of just 136 between the settlements of Higher Town, Middle Town and Lower Town. It offers visitors quiet coastal walks, two quays, and a vineyard to explore. Bryher’s population is smaller still, with only 84 residents and a maximum width of just 0.62 miles. From here, walkers can cross to the neighbouring uninhabited island of Samson at low tide. The southerly island of St Agnes is the least populous, with only 82 residents. It has a historic lighthouse and a pebble maze, believed to date to medieval times.