British Islands to explore.

While being both remote and just within reach the British islands have a lot to offer, from breathtaking views to sandy shores consider those on this list for an amazing trip.

There is something spectacularly familiar but still exciting about visiting the British islands. With all the options available you really needn’t feel the need to go abroad for this trip. For those who wish to be more environmentally friendly opting for these can be a great alternative for this years holiday. On this list there may be some of the most well known and visited islands but hopefully there will also be some unexpectedly wonderful places for you to consider.

Isle of Arran, Scotland

In the eyes of many of its visitors this is no less than a miniature Scotland. The entirety of the land consists of both highland and lowland so depending on which part you find yourself in you can expect to find vast rocky, wild land or woodland and forests. If you’re more drawn to wildlife and woodland then opt for and explore inland where you can come across various wildlife. Go along the coast and you’ll see yet more fantastic wildlife, while also witnessing magnificent caves and bays. For those with a passion for walking there’s numerous hikes to consider, with some even passing waterfalls.

Anglesey, Wales

The biggest island just off the coast of Wales with much of its coast being named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It;s home to some of the most amazing beaches with walking routes passing over cliffs and masses of beautiful golden sand. On the island you can see Twr Mawr which has been standing since the 19th century and is considered to be one of the countries prettiest lighthouses. If you have a passion for activity and exploration you may even opt to take on snorkelling in the beautiful beach of Porth Wen.

Eilean Shona, Scotland

You’ll find this car-free island just off the west coast of Scotland. The quaint island has an almost nostalgic feel, even for those who have never visited before. Its owned by Vanessa Branson who successfully created a spot for pine martens and golden eagles where visitors can opt to kayak in a fairy-tale forest. Her family is well known for their Book of Feats where they describe incredible feats to do with living on the wondrous island. This one is truly like something out of a fantasy movie.

Alderney

This one The locals of this fascinating channel islands refer to themselves as ‘two thousand alcoholics clinging to a rock’ and hopefully that gives you some sort of understanding of the lighthearted and fun atmosphere that saturates the island. It has been said that there’s a real lack of judgement across the island making it a wonderfully welcoming place to visit and just enjoy. There are only nine pubs across the island but they’re said to be an extension of the residence homes so you can expect to experience a real community experience where there’s lots of socialising. With lots of quirky accommodations to choose from, fun to be had and wildlife to see, its definitely worth a visit.

Mersea island

One of the best things about this island is its charming mix of nature and beach. Taking a wander around the place will allow you to witness various birds, Jurassic cliffs and pastel beach huts. You’ll find The Company Shed on the west side of the island, it is a wooden shack that does seafood for which you bring your own booze and bread to accompany. Mersea oysters and scallops are the perfect way to end a day of paddle boarding.

Cei Ballast

A short distance from the welsh town of Porthmadog this little island was formed during the Victorian times. It’s so remote that many people still don’t know it’s there. There are tidal pools in the sands for you to jump into and plenty of pottery shards to be found among the islands industrial slag. You’re best accessing the island by dropping down from the Cob just by the line for the old Ffestiniog steam train.

North Ronaldsay

Wonderfully all of Orkneys 20 habitable islands feel unique. North Ronaldsay is home to a mere 40 islanders and their fascinating seaweed eating sheep. If you come during summer you may be lucky enough to experience sheep festival. While there aren’t many residents those that are there are fascinating people, ranging in occupation. For accommodation you get to choose between the B&B at the bird observatory where you can get involved with the birds or a more refined stay at the two renovated cottages. Either way be sure to enjoy the mutton pie at the cafe during your stay.

Lundy, Devon

This landmark consists of a 400ft high piece of granite that sits in the Bristol Channel. To get there you get to decide between a 15 minute helicopter or a two hour long boat journey. While it does have day visitors and 23 places to stay, the island feels truly remote with the generators shutting down at night meaning you have to depend on torches or candles for light. Enjoy spotting puffins and the islands pub on your trip where there’s no mobile signal, TVs or radios.