Stress-Free Family Travel: Safe Taxi & Airport Transfers with Child Seats in Tresco Island
- tscheiman
- Mar 18
- 3 min read

Safe and Family-Friendly Transfers on Tresco Island: Taxis and Transport with Child Seats
Tresco Island, one of the five inhabited Isles of Scilly, is a true escape into nature and serenity—ideal for families seeking fresh air, adventure, and calm. With no cars for visitors and a strong focus on sustainability, getting around Tresco is refreshingly simple. But even in this unique setting, parents of young children benefit from understanding the best transport options, including those with child seats, boosters, or bike trailers for little ones.
Getting to Tresco: Flights, Ferries, and Transfers
There are several ways to reach Tresco, typically arriving via the neighbouring island of St. Mary’s:
Skybus flights from Land’s End, Newquay, or Exeter to St. Mary’s Airport, then boat transfer to Tresco.
Penzance Helicopters fly directly to Tresco Heliport.
Scillonian Ferry from Penzance to St. Mary’s, followed by boat to Tresco.
From either the airport or harbour, pre-arranged transfers coordinated by Tresco Island staff make the process smooth, especially when travelling with children. Luggage is taken care of, and family-friendly electric buggies or trailers are often available to help you settle in comfortably.
Why Planning Ahead Matters for Families
While there are no public cars or taxis on Tresco, many services are tailored to help families navigate easily:
Child-safe trailers and buggy carts: Available for transport to accommodation or cycling around the island.
Bike hire with child seats or trailers: A great way to explore as a family while keeping children secure.
On-foot transfers with porter services: For those with strollers or extra luggage.
Family-Friendly Activities on Tresco Island
Tresco is made for gentle adventures and natural discovery. Here are some highlights for families with young children:
Tresco Abbey Gardens: A stunning sub-tropical paradise with open paths and friendly red squirrels. Great for a slow-paced stroller walk.
Grassy beach days: Appletree Bay and Pentle Bay are perfect for sandcastle-building, paddling, and relaxing.
Island nature trails: Short walks with sea views, bird spotting, and picnic opportunities.
Kayaking & paddleboarding: Calm waters make this a gentle introduction to watersports for older kids.
Playgrounds and green spaces: The island is safe and walkable, so children can roam a little more freely.
Tresco Children’s Activities (seasonal): Nature workshops, storytelling, and beach games are occasionally organised by the island team.
Hidden Local Favourites
The Ruin Beach Café: Beachfront with a casual family-friendly menu and high chairs.
The New Inn Garden: A great spot for an early family dinner with room for little ones to stretch their legs.
Rowes Field: A peaceful grassy spot often used by local families for informal play.
Dolphin spotting from Carn Near or Cromwell’s Castle: Bring binoculars and snacks for a mini expedition.
Cosy and Baby-Friendly Spots on Tresco
While cafés are limited, those available are warm, welcoming, and geared toward families:
Flying Boat Café & Deli: Ideal for a snack stop, picnic supplies, or coffee break with toddlers in tow.
The Ruin Beach Café (again worth mentioning): Offers plenty of space and casual dining by the sea.
Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Accommodation on Tresco
Sea Garden Cottages: Self-catering cottages with space for families and proximity to the beach.
Flying Boat Cottages: Luxurious but laid-back with baby equipment available on request.
The New Inn: Great for families who prefer dining on-site and central access.
Tresco Estate Cottages: Cosy, well-equipped, and with options for baby beds and high chairs.
Tips for Getting Around Tresco with Little Ones
Pre-book bikes with trailers or child seats through the island’s bike hire team.
Use the island’s porterage service to make arrival and departure easy.
Bring or hire a robust buggy for gravel paths and beach walks.
Ask about seasonal kids' events or nature trails when checking in.
Tresco Island offers a unique family holiday experience—safe, scenic, and full of slow adventure. With no cars and plenty of open space, it’s ideal for young children to explore in a calm, natural setting. Planning ahead with baby- and toddler-friendly transport, like bike trailers and organised transfers, helps parents relax and enjoy every moment in this one-of-a-kind island paradise.
Comments