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The most south-westerly of the Islands, St Agnes is enchanting and tranquil, where the silence is disturbed only by birdsong and the murmur of the sea.Here you’ll find secluded sandy coves, weathered granite tors, a 17th Century lighthouse, and impressive views across the Western Rocks.
Flower farming and fishing are the traditional occupations and visitors can enjoy a stress-free holiday with the silence only broken by the natural sounds of sea or birds. A footpath follows the deeply indented coastline, revealing beautiful sandy coves, rugged granite outcrops, heath, downland, meadow and a freshwater pool.
This habitat attracts butterflies and moths and is often the first landfall for American vagrants or migrating birds. There is a profusion of wild flowers and lichens, testament to the unpolluted atmosphere and the brilliance of the night stars can be enjoyed on safe and solitary strolls.
There are guest houses, self-catering cottages and a campsite, a store and sub-post office, two cafes and a pub.
Getting There and Away
FOR VISITORS STAYING ON ST. AGNES
If you are travelling to St. Agnes, please check with your accommodation that your transfer has been arranged for the launch to meet you and your luggage when you arrive at St. Mary’s. Usual departure time 12.30, but please confirm the time before arrival.
St. Agnes Boating also organise daily trips from St. Agnes to other islands and also weekly trips to the Western Rocks to see the birds and seals or special visits on request to the uninhabited islands such as Tean and St. Helen's
ST AGNES BOATING
David and John Peacock: "Spirit of St.Agnes"
Contact: 01720 422704 / 07836 722359 / 07771 550652.
Website: www.st-agnes-boating.co.uk
DAYTRIPS TO ST. AGNES
Direct trips to St. Agnes are operated by St. Mary's Boatmen's Association (www.scillyboating.co.uk) and depart from St. Mary's Quay at 10.15 and 14.00. Returning at 14.30, 15.45 and 16.45.
If you are visitng onboard Scillonian III St. Agnes Boating operate a launch to St. Agnes departing St. MAry's Quay at 12.30 and return in time for the ship's depature at 16.30. For more details contact St. Agnes Boating (details above).
Things to Do
WALKING
Walking is relatively easy going around St. Agnes but is a little uneven on the coastal paths. Follow marked tracks out to Beady Pool to search for Dutch terracotta and glass beads, or discover the Maze, just past the Nags Head granite outcrop. Alternative visit Gugh on a low tide and really feel lik you have an island to yourself!
ACTIVITIES
Birdwatching is an interesting past time on St. Agnes, with local seabirds such as Oystercatchers, Gannets, Terns, Ringed Plovers.
There are also boat trips to Annet and the Western Rocks where seals and sea birds can be spotted. Puffins with their multicoloured beaks and unusual gait can be seen from April to July.
The local sport is gig racing, and races are held each week throughout the season.
Fishing Trips can be arranged through St. Agnes Boating. These trips are normally of two hours duration and cater for all levels of experience.
REFRESHMENTS
Enjoy a well earned break and a delicious locally made snack at either COASTGUARDS CAFE, COVEAN CAFE, or ROSE COTTAGE CAFE, alternatively you can soak up the view with liquid refreshments optional at the UK's most southwesterly pub: THE TURKS HEAD.
Places to Stay
There is a variety of accommodation, in guest houses, self-catering cottages or on the campsite, with its outstanding views to the Bishop Rock Lighthouse and the Western Isles.
ST. AGNES CAMPSITE
Contact: Mrs S. Hicks. (01720) 422360
Website: www.troytown.co.uk
HALF BOARD / BED & BREAKFAST
COVEAN COTTAGE - Mr and Mrs M. Sedgman (01720) 422620
HELLWEATHERS - Mr and Mrs M. Crompton (01720) 422430
SELF-CATERING ACCOMMODATION
LOWER TOWN BARN - Mrs H. Page (01483) 273805
PERIGLIS CABIN - Mr J. Paget-Brown (01720) 422366
COVEAN LITTLE HOUSE - Mrs H.Sewell (01720) 422620
SMUGGLERS - Mrs N. Burns (01720) 423677
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