Overview

The Star Castle Hotel is one of the most captivating locations in the Isles of Scilly. The hotel is in a star-shaped former fortress, the centre of a garrison, built on a hill above Hugh Town on the island of St. Mary’s in 1593. The site has views of the sea and the other islands—ideal for spotting invaders. Today, it’s the perfect place for families who want to watch the sunset and explore the stunning beaches and little towns of the Scilly Isles.

Activities

The hotel has a fab indoor heated pool, providing the perfect place for you and the kids to relax and unwind after a busy day of Island hopping. It’s 13m x 3m, and beach towels are provided, so there’s no need to bring those along. The pool also has a newly refurbished sun deck area just outside, with lounge style furniture allowing you to soak up the sun whilst enjoying the water. An excellent tennis court is also a short stroll away, and rackets and balls are available to pick up from reception.

Food

Guests can choose from two award-winning restaurants featuring fresh, locally caught sea food, local produce, and vegetables from the hotel’s kitchen garden. The Conservatory restaurant is light and airy, open during summer, and adorned by a magnificent vine. It has the same lovely atmosphere as the Castle restaurant but specialises in seafood and offers a delightfully alternative dining experience.

Breakfast and dinner are available at both. Children can eat earlier, at 5:30 pm, with a high tea in the Conservatory, which is particularly helpful for the younger ones. There’s a wide choice on the kid’s menu, including pizza, locally caught fish and chips, sausages, nuggets, jacket potatoes and pasta options. There are also some great side choices and puddings to choose from too.

Accommodation

The Star Hotel has a great choice of rooms and suites. Although many of the Castle rooms are smaller, the Garden rooms and suites offer more space for families. Some have beautiful garden views with doors leading out, and some even have breathtaking sea views and stunning verandas. All are bright and airy with country cottage styling.

The Garden room and Garden, and the Garden Suites have room for extra beds and cots. All come with tea and coffee making facilities, TV’s, hairdryers, dressing gowns, ironing boards and irons (on request) and white fluffy bath and hand towels.

Nearby

Boating is a big part of island life. Tim the Boatman will see you at breakfast daily to help plan your day on the water, offering his ever popular three Island Trip aboard the Calypso II. The Sea Safari offers an exhilarating two hour trip taking in shipwrecks, seals and seabirds, reception can also assist in planning each of your days activities.

If the kids are into horses, St Mary’s Riding Centre is just a few minutes from Pelistry Beach, a 30-minute stroll from the hotel. Relax and enjoy breathtaking, panoramic views of the Islands as you explore the coast of St Mary’s on horse-back.

The Scilly Cart Co provides electric vehicles for use across St. Mary’s. With flexible hiring options and easy-to-use carts, it’s a great way to discover the island’s many varied and beautiful places. It’s also ideal for people with reduced mobility or children with little legs who wish to explore more.

St Mary’s is perfect for families with children because of its safe bathing, beautiful beaches, nature trails, and little town. But if you want to venture off the island, you have Bryher, St Martin’s, St Agnes and Tresco to choose from, famed for their natural beauty, exotic gardens, peace and tranquillity.

Summary

The Star Castle Hotel is an excellent place for families to stay and enjoy the peace and beauty of St Mary’s. You’ll never want to leave with a large indoor swimming pool and tennis courts in the hotel and endless beautiful beaches, boat trips and outdoor adventures right on your doorstep!