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Location

The Star Castle Hotel is one of the most distinctive places to stay in the Isles of Scilly, sitting high on the Garrison overlooking Hugh Town harbour on St Mary’s. From its elevated position, the hotel enjoys sweeping views across the water, with boats coming and going throughout the day and the neighbouring islands visible on the horizon. It feels both secluded and central at the same time — just a short walk from the town below, yet wonderfully peaceful once inside the Garrison walls.

About

Built in 1593 during the reign of Elizabeth I, the Star Castle was originally constructed as part of the island’s coastal defences to protect against invasion. Its star-shaped design is both unusual and strategic, allowing defenders to cover all angles of approach. Today, this remarkable fortress has been carefully converted into a luxury hotel, while retaining much of its original character and historic atmosphere.

Set within the historic Garrison and closely linked to the wider Isles of Scilly estate heritage, staying here feels less like checking into a typical hotel and more like stepping into a living piece of history.

Getting there

We travelled to the Isles of Scilly by air, flying from Cornwall Airport Newquay to St Mary’s Airport, a journey that takes just under an hour but feels like a true escape as the mainland drops away and the scattered islands come into view below. The approach was particularly memorable, with turquoise waters, sandy bays and rocky islets appearing one by one as we’ve descended towards St Mary’s.

On arrival at St Mary’s Airport, the hotel had arranged transfers, with luggage taken ahead for us while we made the short journey into Hugh Town. From there, it is a gentle drive (or walk for those who prefer it) up to the Garrison, where the Star Castle Hotel sits behind its historic stone walls.

Arrival and Check-In

Passing through the Garrison walls, the atmosphere immediately changes. The bustle of Hugh Town faded away as we were surrounded by thick stone ramparts, open skies and sweeping sea views. Check-in at the hotel was warm and relaxed, with a friendly welcome that set the tone for the stay. Our luggage had already been delivered to the room, allowing us to settle in straight away and take in the surroundings at our own pace.

Our Harbour View Garden Suite

Our harbour view garden suite was located in the newer part of the hotel grounds and was beautifully styled with tasteful seaside décor that felt both elegant and relaxed, perfectly in keeping with the coastal setting. The suite was generously proportioned and felt more like a private retreat than a hotel room, with its own separate lounge offering double-aspect views and patio doors opening directly onto a large, secluded garden.

The bedroom was a good size, furnished attractively with views overlooking the garden. Both the bedroom and lounge featured televisions and with ample storage space throughout, we had plenty of room to store our belongings. Thoughtful touches such as high-quality bathrobes, an iron and ironing board, and a hairdryer provided in the wardrobe added to the convenience.

The bathroom was well equipped with a bath and overhead shower, a heated towel rail, large fluffy towels and H2K Harrogate fragrant toiletries which are one of my favourites. Just outside the main living area, the entrance porch contained tea and coffee-making facilities, an under-counter fridge, basket weave chair and useful coat hooks—ideal for returning after a day out exploring the islands.

The highlight was undoubtedly the private garden. Spacious, quiet, and completely secluded, it offered uninterrupted views that were impossible to beat.

Two garden chairs on the patio provided the perfect spot for morning coffee or a peaceful evening drink, while at the far end of the garden a twin bench offered another place to sit and unwind. After full days of sightseeing across St Mary’s and the surrounding islands, it was a delight to return here to enjoy the idyllic setting.

Dining

Dining at Star Castle was another highlight of our stay, with each evening offering a different setting and atmosphere. We enjoyed dinner one night in the Castle Restaurant, where stone walls, candlelight and elegant service created a refined and intimate dining experience. On another evening, we dined in the Vine Restaurant located in the hotel’s conservatory which provided a beautiful contrast.

Both restaurants offered a unique experience, combining fine dining, fresh locally sourced seafood, and attentive service that made our evenings feel special. The emphasis on quality ingredients from the surrounding waters really stood out, with menus that reflected the best of what the Isles of Scilly has to offer.

Breakfast was equally enjoyable, served at a relaxed pace and setting us up perfectly for days spent exploring the islands.

Facilities

The hotel offers a range of facilities that make it easy to unwind and enjoy the setting. This includes a heated indoor swimming pool, comfortable lounge areas and beautifully maintained gardens and terraces with sweeping views across the islands.

The Dungeon Bar & Terrace provides one of the most atmospheric spots in the hotel, set within the historic stone walls and accessed down a short flight of stone steps. This was our go to place for pre-dinner drinks.

Additional facilities include a tennis court, and for golf enthusiasts, a complimentary round can be arranged at St Mary’s Golf Club through the hotel, making it easy to enjoy a game in one of the most scenic settings in the UK.

Out and About

One of the best things about staying at Star Castle is its location within easy reach of everything on St Mary’s. From the hotel, it was a short walk into Hugh Town, or along coastal paths towards Peninnis Head and other scenic viewpoints.

We spent our days exploring the island, visiting nearby beaches, walking coastal routes and taking inter-island boats to Tresco and St Martin’s. Returning each evening to the quiet of the Garrison felt like the icing on the cake after our splendid days out.

Overall

Our stay at the Star Castle Hotel was truly memorable. It combined historic character, stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere in a way few places can match. While the hotel offers all the comforts of a quality hotel, it is the sense of history and setting that really make it stand out.

Waking up inside a 16th-century fortress, overlooking the harbour and surrounding islands was an experience that will stay with us forever.

Details:

Star Castle Hotel, The Garrison, St.Mary’s, Isles of Scilly.

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We were guests of Isles of Scilly Travel and the Star Castle Hotel and as always, all views and opinions are entirely my own.