Top UK Islands to Explore
Discovering Britain's Hidden Gems: A Guide to Island Getaways
Embark on a journey to some of Britain's most enchanting islands, each offering unique experiences for nature-lovers, history buffs, and camping enthusiasts.
The Isle of Man
Ideal for birdwatchers, the Isle of Man hosts reserves such as Elmley, rich in rare species and sweeping marshland views. Enjoy scenic steam train rides, coastal hikes, and wildlife spotting, or visit historical sites like Peel Castle and the Manx Museum. The island's Big Five species - seals, otters, red deer, golden eagles, and red squirrels - can be spotted along the Arran Coastal Way.
The Shetland Islands
This archipelago off Scotland's north coast offers fantastic walking at the Cliffs of Eshaness and Muckle Flugga, wildlife at Noss National Nature Reserve, and in winter, the chance to see the Northern Lights. History-lovers can explore Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement, while the Shetland Pony Experience offers a chance to meet these iconic ponies.
Orkney Islands
Brilliant walks over heather moors, pristine beaches, and some of the finest prehistoric sites in Europe, such as Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar, await visitors to the Orkney Islands. Don't miss the Italian Chapel, a remarkable transformation of two Nissen huts into a beautiful chapel by Domenico Chiocchetti and fellow Italian POWs.
Channel Islands
Recommended for campervan tourism, the Channel Islands offer scenic spots and good campsites. Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm each have their unique attractions, with St Peter’s Hideaway Motorhome Stopover (Jersey), Camp de Rêves (Guernsey), and Seagull Camp (Herm Island) offering family-friendly facilities and proximity to beaches.
Islay
Famous for its peaty whiskies, Islay also offers nature-lovers the chance to encounter corncrakes, hen harriers, ospreys, eagles, and geese migrations at Loch Gruinart. Superb beaches and coastal walks can be found at Machir Bay and Port Ellen and Kintra.
Rathlin Island
Off Northern Ireland's coast, Rathlin Island is a gem, perfect for nature-lovers. Rathlin's harbours offer the chance to go seal spotting at Mill Harbour and Church Harbour, while the RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre offers puffin nesting and fine views of the Irish Sea.
Isle of Sheppey
The Isle of Sheppey, off Kent's north coast, offers a mix of seaside charm, wildlife, and history. Enjoy sandy beaches, coastal walks, and family-friendly fun at Leysdown, or visit the Blue Town Heritage Centre for an insight into the island's history.
Each of these islands offers a unique experience, making them perfect destinations for a getaway. Whether you're a campervan enthusiast, a history buff, or a nature-lover, there's an island waiting for you to discover.
To reach these islands, CalMac operates ferries from Kennacraig, on Kintyre, to Port Ellen (2 hours 20 minutes) or to Port Askaig (1 hour 55 minutes) to reach Islay. NorthLink Ferries operates routes from Aberdeen to Lerwick (12 hours) and from Kirkwall on Orkney (7 hours 45 minutes) to Lerwick in the Shetland Islands. Pentland Ferries sails from Gills Bay to St Margaret's Hope (1 hour 10 mins) and Heysham, Liverpool or Cairnryan for the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company ferry to reach the Isle of Man.
