Three Of The Best UK Islands For a Holiday Escape

*This is a collaborative post on some of the best UK islands to visit

If you’re looking to feel like you’re getting away from it all on your next holiday then maybe an island is what you’re looking for. Around the shores of the UK there are a bounty of islands that make for excellent holiday escapes, cut off from the mainland so that they feel that little bit further away from home.

Between rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and incredible wildlife a trip to one of these islands is set to take your breath away. Holidays to Isle of Wight or any of our other picks are a great resolution for the stresses of everyday life. So, think hard about which you’d like to head off to on your next holiday getaway.

Best UK islands- Isle of Wight

Sitting just off the coast of Hampshire, the Isle of Wight is a beautiful slice of sunshine and nature. A little over half of the island is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), so you know that you’re in for some stunning views here. From the iconic Needles chalk stacks to the many picturesque towns and beaches scattered around the island, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.

Of course, the extensive coastline is still one of the biggest draws when it comes to it. With a wide variety of beaches, there are many choices whether you’re looking to sunbathe, go for a swim, or try your hand at some water sports. 

If you visit at the right time, you’ll be treated to one of the many festivals and events that the Isle of Wight plays host to. Watch the boats at Cowes Week, dance to the music at the Isle of Wight Festival, or sample some delicious local cuisine at the Garlic Festival.

Isles of Scilly

Not just one island but a small group of them, the Isles of Scilly are largely overlooked off the southwestern tip of Cornwall. But, just like the rest of the county, the islands feature some stunning beaches, deep blue waters, and an almost sub-tropical climate.

All five of the inhabited islands are on the smaller side, with the dozens of uninhabited ones being even more compact. This makes it a lot easier to fit in all the sights, with many visitors opting to hop between the islands by boat.

Enjoying the local wildlife is one of the real pleasures of visiting Scilly, as you can find plenty of interesting marine life hidden away under the waves. Many seabirds frequent the islands as well, making this a perfect destination for a spot of secluded birdwatching.

Best UK islands- Isle of Skye

If you’re not looking for warmer temperatures then consider heading north. The Isle of Skye has some breathtakingly dramatic landscapes, featuring some of Scotland’s most beautiful vistas. It’s a larger island than our other picks, home to towering mountains, hidden lochs, and trails you can spend hours wandering.

Skye also offers some fascinating architectural and cultural treats, such as the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the entirety of Scotland. Dunvegan Castle is a must-visit, with beautifully landscaped gardens and hundreds of years of history to explore.

When you’re exploring the vast expanses of the island it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported to another world, one that’s entirely free of the hustle and bustle of everyday life!

Just as the UK is a land of contrasts, its islands offer quite different holiday experiences depending on what you’re looking for. Whether you prefer the sunny beaches down south or moody lochs up north, consider making your next UK getaway an island escape.