Made up of England, Scotland, and Wales, the coastline of Great Britain is surrounded by some outstanding and interesting islands. From those that are really popular holiday destinations to those that are fairly remote and see fewer visitors, you are sure to find an island that appeals to your interests. See some amazing natural areas, beaches, and charming island villages as you discover the fantastic British Islands.
Some of the islands must be reached by boat, some are connected to the mainland by bridge, and others can be accessed by foot at low tide.
Some amazing British Islands include:
Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight has been a very popular summer destination for many years. The island is ringed with many pretty seaside towns, each with a good selection of accommodation options, cafes, restaurants, and bars. It lies a little away from the Hampshire Coast. Some popular attractions on the Isle of Wight include The Needles, Carisbrooke Castle, Blackgang Chine amusement park, Steephill Cove, and a previous royal summer retreat that was used by Queen Victoria. Of the island’s beaches, Alum Bay is particularly beautiful – it features different coloured sands that dazzle in contrast in the sunshine.
Anglesey
Off the coast of North Wales, Anglesey packs a lot into a small space. There are some very pleasant beaches, ideal for summer holidays and long weekends by the seaside, wild and rugged landscapes, historic sights galore, traditional pubs, fine restaurants, and pockets of exciting nightlife. At Holyhead there is another smaller island, Holy Island, where there is an old lighthouse. There is also a bird sanctuary in the area, South Stacks.
Anglesey is home to the longest place name in the UK, as well as one of the longest in the world. It is a veritable tongue twister: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch! You can visit the small village and take photos of the sign at the local train station. Other attractions on the island include the impressive Beaumaris Castle, Anglesey Sea Zoo, Pili Palace Butterfly Farm, the ancient burial sites at Din LLigwy, Anglesey Model Village, and Plas Newydd.
St Mary’s
St Mary’s is the largest island of the Scilly Islands; an archipelago that is found off the coast of Cornwall. The Scilly Islands actually comprise five main islands, along with a large number of other islands, islets, and rocks. To find out more about the islands and their history you should visit the interesting Isles of Scilly Museum. Boat trips from St Mary’s around other islands are really popular, and you can visit Cromwell’s Castle on the island of Tresco and the fantastic botanic gardens. There is lots of gorgeous scenery to enjoy, and the islands are especially popular with keen bird watchers.
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye lies of the coast of Scotland and it is the biggest island in the Inner Hebrides. Beautiful and picturesque, it is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors. There are lots of opportunities for walking and hiking, and exploring the Cuillins is often high on the list of things to do. Other things to do and see on the island include the historic Clan Donald Centre, the atmospheric Dunvegan Castle, the Old Man of Storr, Loch Coruisk, and Kilt Rock and Waterfall. This remarkable and scenic island is sure to create a long-lasting impression!
Other terrific British Islands to visit include Lundy, Burgh Island, Brownsea, and Lindisfarne, although there are many, many more too!
