You be Scilly to miss these little gems (Bryher in general)

Member Name: gothicchucky69

Product:	Bryher in general
Date:	23/05/09 (58 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Just so beautiful, dominated by the sea

Disadvantages: Having to leave! It can be a little expensive if self catering

I have written a review on th Isles of Scilly in general however, it was Bryher that we stayed on about a month ago.

I love cornwall as I Think it is certainly the most beautiful part of the UK and Bryher is certainly no exception.

28 miles of the coast of lands end lies over 100 islands which are known as they Isles of Scilly. Only five of these islands are inhabited; St Mary's which is the largest of the five, Tresco which is the most tropical island, St Agnes, St Martins and Bryher which is the smallest of the the five.

With only about 80 permanent residents, one road, One pub, Shop, post office and one hotel this island remains unspoilt and has kept away from that touristy atmosphere. It is a haven for Bird watchers, walkers and sunbathers.

Being the smallest Island it is dominated by the see. The Island is half a mile wide and a mile and a half in length so everywhere is within walking distance.

Acommodation ranges from B&B's to a luxury hotel infact they even have a campsite. The only traffic on the Island is the odd 4x4 or tractor but they are few and far between. The island is so peaceful, in fact we were at the very end of the island and could here a door close a quarter of a mile away. The island is surrounded by beautiful white beaches which are covered with shells. There is no litter anywhere on the island, no vandalism, theft or any type of crime really and thats what makes this place so special. There are many stalls on the side of the road which sell things like home made fudge, plants, fresh local produce, art, etc. which are unattended all day and night. You just place your money in the tub take the correct change and pick the desired item. I couldn't believe it. It is a rare sight to see these days.

I would suggest going in April before the bank holiday as it is still relatively quiet and you pretty much get the beaches to yourself. The water is so calm it is perfect for a swim or splash about. Or you could just relax and soak up the sun as the weather really is a lot milder than on the main land.

Whereever you go you can see the beautiful green sea and white sandy beaches. From Bryher you can see directly over to tresco which is 1km away. You can get boats out to all the other islands most days. The times are written on several boards around the island so you can easily check this. Fishing trips are available most days or hire your own boat and take your own tour.

The Fraggle Rock Bar is a lovely little place offering dinner time and evening meals. A good variey of alcohol and soft drinks as well as free use of the internet which can be handy when you are miles away from anywhere.

You will find yourself going for many walks to discover the whole island and to take in the amazing views. A community centre is being built which may offer a little more entertainment on rainy days.

Unfortunately we did not manage to eat at the hotel restaurant which is open to non-residents as it get booked up quite quickly so make sure you book in on the day you arrive if you wish to eat there. There is a fantastic restaurant on Tresco where I had the best fish and chips i have ever had in my life!

If you are going self catering be warned that the shop on Bryher is only a small grocery shop and Post office which can get very expensive. It is recommended that you shop on one of the larger islands.

I will definately be returning to Bryher as it is the most natural island out of the five.

If you have not discovered the Isles of Scilly yet you really should take a gander, even if it is just for the day as you can take day trips from Penzance and Lands end.

It takes 2 hrs 40 mins by the boat and 15 mins by helicopter or the skybus. We stayed in a three bedroomed chalet, which was absolutely beautiful and very spacious, wonderful sea views from the garden. It cost us roughly £1150 between four of us for 7 nights, oh and the island is very pet friendly as is the boat and skybus and helicopter, but I have heard dogs tend to be more nervous on the helicopter due to the noise.

The local people are extremely friendly and you soon get to know a few of them due to the fact the island is so small.

Well worth visiting, and if you saw the Martin Clunes documentary done on the Islands around the coast of the UK, he really did not do the Isles of Scilly justice!

Summary: Bryher is certainly my favourite island