Archaeology Walks on Tresco

Hop across from Bryher and uncover 4,000 years of island history on a guided archaeology walk around neighbouring Tresco.

Archaeologist and Scilly guide Dr Katharine Sawyer leads a series of walks exploring some of Tresco’s most fascinating historic sites – from Bronze Age burial chambers and settlements to ruined castles, hidden landmarks and traces of island life stretching back thousands of years.

Katharine offers two walks each day, departing at 10am and 1.30pm, with a different route for each – so you can join one, or make a day of it and discover even more of Tresco’s past.

2026 Dates

Monday 24th August
Monday 14th September
Monday 28th September

Walks depart from Smith Square beside the Tresco Island Office and last around 1½–2 hours.

£10 per walk, payable in cash directly to Katharine on the day.

Places are limited, so please book in advance with the Tresco Island Office.

The Walks

Depending on the day, your route might take you north across Castle Down to Cromwell’s Castle, King Charles’ Castle and Tregarthen Hill Burial Chamber; through the heart of the island to discover a Bronze Age settlement, the Old Blockhouse and Smuggler’s Cache; or into the Abbey Garden to uncover layers of history hidden among the planting.

Whichever route you take, expect to discover places and stories you might easily have passed without a second glance.

Coming Across from Bryher

Check the daily inter-island boat times to plan your crossing from Bryher to Tresco and allow enough time to reach Smith Square before the walk begins.

The walks cover some steep, rocky and uneven ground, so sturdy footwear and suitable outdoor clothing are recommended.

Afterwards, stay awhile for lunch, explore a little more of Tresco, or simply wander back to New Grimsby for the short boat ride home to Bryher.