The Sensational Isles of Scilly

Our holiday begins this evening as we meet in the First-Class lounge at London Paddington. After a welcome from our Tour Manager and saying hello to our group, we settle into the Night Riviera Sleeper train for our overnight journey to Penzance.

After breakfast on the train this morning, we journey to the magnificent Isles of Scilly by ferry. Sailing past Cornwall's iconic coastline, you'll see wonderful views of the quaint villages and the Land's End peninsula.

We dock at St Mary's, the largest of the Isles of Scilly, and travel to our hotel where we spend the next seven nights. The rest of your day is at leisure before dinner this evening, giving you chance to start exploring our delightful surroundings.

You could get to know Hugh Town, with its independent shops, quaint churches, and friendly pubs, as well as the Isles of Scilly Museum. There are also three pretty beaches to discover - Porthcressa, Town Beach and Porthmellon Beach.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today we enjoy a full-day guided tour of St Mary's, wandering the small, yet breathtakingly beautiful island. Exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Town, a delightful part of the island which is a treasure trove of old-world charm, we pass quaint cottages and a mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture.

Along the way, we see the historic church where the beloved Sir Harold Wilson rests in peace, having spent many summers with his family on this very island. We also discover the fascinating story behind the unfinished fort of Harry's Walls and uncover the secrets of the Lower Moors nature trail.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Travelling on a short boat ride this morning, we visit Tresco's famous Abbey Garden. The gardens were built in the 19th century around a ruined Benedictine Abbey and are filled with a stunning mix of sub-tropical plants. The warmer climate of the Scillies allows flowers from Brazil, Myanmar, South Africa, and New Zealand to flourish. Take some time to wander through winding paths among flowers of every colour.

Abbey Garden isn't limited to floral beauty, either. There's a wealth of other hidden gems to be found such as red squirrels, golden pheasants, magnificent sculptures, and the enchanting Valhalla Figurehead Museum - a collection of intricate and beautifully preserved ship figureheads, each with its own unique story and history.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today, enjoy some time to continue relaxing at your own pace. You could visit one of the Isles of Scilly's smaller islands, such as Bryher. Home to around 80 people, this little island gives you a local sense of Scilly. Unwind on the sandy beaches, explore rocky coves, or climb the small granite hills to discover fantastic views.

If you prefer to stay in St Mary's, there's plenty to experience. Meander around the shops, churches, cafés, galleries, restaurants, and pubs in Hugh Town or relax on one of the lovely beaches.

• Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we sail to St Agnes, the most south-westerly island. Unspoilt beaches and wild landscapes are on offer while next door, the uninhabited island of Annet is a dedicated bird sanctuary. Rare sea birds like European storm petrels and Manx shearwaters make their home here.

If you're looking for a touch of culture, you could stop off at the Pot Buoys Gallery. Showcasing the work of artists across the Scilly Isles, you'll find pieces inspired by local scenery. There are some charming cafés and pubs to visit too.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today, we explore another incredible island, sailing to St Martin's. Here your day can be as busy as you want it to be, with plenty of activities or peaceful places to sit and soak up the scenery. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal blue sea, or simply stroll along the luscious sands.

St Martin's also has a great arts and crafts scene, with independent shops and galleries for you to browse. If you're feeling peckish, then a local lobster supper, delicious cream tea or simple pasty are all on offer.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today marks our final day in stunning St Mary's, and it's a day for you to enjoy as you please. Before we return to our daily routine, take some time to unwind in the peaceful surroundings where nature flourishes and time seems to slow down. With plenty of space to do as much or as little as you like, the pace of life here is much gentler.

Enjoy a final leisurely stroll along one of the island's picturesque beaches, such as Porthcressa or Old Town Bay. You could also take a boat trip around the island to spot some of the fascinating marine life that calls this area home, including seals and dolphins. This serene island offers endless possibilities.

• Breakfast, Dinner

We say goodbye to St Mary's this morning as we board a flight to Lands' End. Here, we enjoy lunch at the Cape Cornwall Club restaurant. Perched on a rugged cliff overlooking the wild Atlantic, the Cape Cornwall restaurant is a hidden gem. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with rustic wooden furnishings and breathtaking views of the sea, cliffs, and sky.

After a wonderful lunch experience, it's time to board our train home. Arriving in London, our holiday comes to an end and we say goodbye to new friends and fellow travellers.

• Breakfast, Lunch