Hugh Town, a quaint jewel nestled on St. Mary’s Island within the Isles of Scilly, offers a plethora of enchanting dog walking opportunities. The intertwining paths and coastal vistas provide not only a sanctuary for furry companions but also an idyllic escape for their human counterparts. Each walk presents a tapestry of natural beauty, rich with captivating landscapes and invigorating sea breezes. Herein lies a list of ten remarkable dog walks, each with its own unique charm, coaxing both you and your canine to explore the unspoiled wilderness together.
1. The Garrison and The Old Town
Address: The Garrison, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 422 031
Website: www.scillytoday.com
Winding gracefully through the remnants of a historic fortress, this trail offers a scenic promenade filled with awe-inspiring sea views. Your dog will delight in the myriad of scents wafting through the air, while you savour the remnants of the past amidst wildflowers and windblown grasses.
2. Porthcressa Beach
Address: Porthcressa Beach, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 420 180
Website: www.cornwall.gov.uk
Porthcressa Beach is a veritable paradise for dogs. The soft sand is an inviting canvas for playful romps, where your dog can traipse through the surf or chase fleeting shadows cast by seagulls above. As the sun dips below the horizon, the glowing sky paints a breathtaking backdrop to an unforgettable walk.
3. The Coastal Path to Garrison Green
Address: Coastal Path, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 422 000
Website: www.english-nature.org.uk
This dog walk leads you along the precipice of rugged cliffs, where the wild sea ebbs and flows, revealing a world teeming with life. Spot seabirds diving into the depths while your canine companion bounds joyfully ahead. This rugged terrain elicits adventure, with every step a revelation of nature’s raw beauty.
4. St. Mary’s Island Loop
Address: St. Mary’s Island, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 423 444
Website: www.scilly.gov.uk
The St. Mary’s Island Loop is a gentle path that meanders through diverse landscapes, from vibrant heathland to serene woodlands. It’s a place where both energetic escapades and quiet contemplation coexist in harmony. This stroll invites your dog to explore its bounds, while you reflect on the serene surroundings.
5. Cargo Beach
Address: Cargo Beach, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 422 564
Website: www.beachfinders.co.uk
Cargo Beach, often less frequented, provides a tranquil retreat for canines and their handlers. With a smattering of rocks and gentle tides, it’s an ideal locale for exploration. Relish the whispers of the waves and indulge your senses in this secluded haven.
6. Higher Town to Lower Town Walk
Address: Between Higher and Lower Town, St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 427 320
Website: www.scillywalking.com
This lovely, undulating trail links the charming hamlets of Higher Town and Lower Town, inviting discovery at every turn. Rich with character and adorned with picturesque cottages, the trail presents a perfect medley of history and nature that will enchant both you and your four-legged friend.
7. Porth Mellon
Address: Porth Mellon, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 422 337
Website: www.theroadtoscillies.com
Porth Mellon is a hidden gem, a crescent of sand flanked by lush greenery. It beckons dogs to frolic and plunge into its crystal-clear waters. The beach’s uncrowded nature allows for a delightful outing where you both can unwind and enjoy the rhythmic sounds of nature.
8. Churchtown
Address: Churchtown, St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 421 951
Website: www.scilly.gov.uk/churchtown
The Churchtown path is a blend of artistry and nature; it leads you through quaint gardens and patches of vibrant flora. Each step taken reveals new wonders, making it a delightful exploration for your dog on a mission to sniff out adventure.
9. The Horticultural Centre
Address: Glandore, Hugh Town, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 423 353
Website: www.horticulturalcentre.scilly.com
This meandering route leads you to the heart of Scilly’s horticultural wonders. As you walk amongst flowering plants and unique greenery, your curious canine companion can discover a myriad of fragrances in an ever-changing landscape, invoking a celebration of nature’s marvels.
10. St. Martin’s to St. Mary’s Walk
Address: Between St. Martin’s and St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly, TR21
Contact: 01720 422 399
Website: www.scillybeachcombing.com
This captivating ferry route brings you over to the neighbouring Isle of St. Martin’s, where undulating landscapes and pristine beaches await. This walk beckons with tales of adventure and promises invigorating views, perfect for a day of exploration with your dog by your side.
In conclusion, Hugh Town and its surrounding neighbourhoods transform each dog walk into a delightful odyssey where the mundane becomes extraordinary. Every trail, every beach, whispers stories of nature’s artistry, waiting patiently to be discovered. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the coast or a more vigorous jaunt through the rugged terrain, these ten walks provide an invitation to experience the beautiful confluence of adventure and tranquillity, perfect for you and your beloved canine companion.
