The Sensational Isles of Scilly

At London Paddington, we meet at the First-Class lounge ahead of our overnight sleeper rail journey to Penzance.

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. After we dock at St Mary's, the largest of the Isles of Scilly, we travel to our hotel where we'll spend the next seven nights. The rest of your day is free to start exploring the delightful surroundings. Maybe 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

We enjoy a guided walking tour, taking in the sights of the Old Town. We see the church - the final resting place of Sir Harold Wilson, who summered here every year with his family, the unfinished fort of Harry's Walls, and follow the Lower Moors nature trail.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Travelling by boat, 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 array of sub-tropical plants. The warmer climate of the Scillies allows flowers from Brazil, Myanmar, South Africa, and New Zealand to flourish. 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.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today, enjoy some free time to continue relaxing. 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 this little island's 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.

• 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

We journey to the friendly island of 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 and even snorkel with the seals, or simply take a 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 is another free day, giving you a chance to enjoy any activities you haven't had time for yet. Enjoy a final drink in your new favourite pub, collect the perfect shell souvenir on the beach, or visit another one of the surrounding islands.

• Breakfast

We say goodbye to St Mary's as we board a flight to Lands' End. We enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before our rail journey home.

• Breakfast, Lunch