Aren't birds brilliant > Sites > Abbey Gardens on Tresco

This season's highlights

Whilst mixed weather meant dodging showers in the relaxed and beautiful surroundings of Tresco there was a wide variety of both migrant and resident birds to entertain us.

Based at the Abbey Gardens entrance we were able to show people a number of important seabirds on the islands, as well as birds on the lagoons and heath. We also took people on short walks, and gave talks and presentations about the work of the RSPB in the history room.

Highlights included a kingfisher which gave prolonged views on a number of walks. This spectacular bird showed off its brilliant blue and orange plumage whilst plunging into the water from its waterside perch.

We were able to help people with the tricky identification of the different gulls that come to bathe on the Abbey Pool, and were also able to show people the differences between swallows, house martins, sand martins and swifts as they fed low over the pools.

For a lucky few, a sparrowhawk caused havoc amongst the flocks of linnets on the heath, and a marsh harrier was seen flying low over the reedbeds.

Tresco is home to some amazingly tame birds including song thrushes and house sparrows, plus a number of ducks species including gadwalls. Because of the islands history of turning up unusual migrants, there is an expectation that anything can turn up at anytime meaning there was always something new to enjoy.

The project was very successful. We met many RSPB members, as well as people interested in wildlife who could find out first hand about the work we do.

Paul St Pierre, Cornwall Conservation Officer

Chaffinch sitting on a book, facing right

Abbey Gardens on Tresco

31 August to 12 September

RSPB staff on hand to helpRefreshments availableToilets

The world famous Tresco Abbey Gardens are home to some amazing birds.

Uncharacteristically tame song thrushes live on the Island, and as they are ten times more abundant here than on the mainland, you are guaranteed to see more than one.

Join one of our short, guided walks and look out for wading birds at the Great Pool and Abbey Pool, linnets and stonechats on the heathlands, and garden birds in tranquil surroundings.

There is an entrance charge for the Gardens.

Truly inspirational

Anonymous

Opening times

Staff and volunteers will be at the site 10 am-4 pm.

Facilities

At Abbey Gardens there is a licensed restaurant, which serves light snacks (hot and cold), and beverages throughout the day.

How to get there

From Penzance to the Island of St Mary's you can take the Scillonian III passenger ferry. From St Mary's, you can take a tripper boat from Hugh Town Quay, to Carn Near, Old Grimsby or New Grimsby on Tresco. Please check details at the office on the Old Quay, (check on the boat across for return times and location). Sailings to Tresco are normally between 9 am and 2 pm.

Other forms of transport are available. Please see the Tresco and Bryher link below for further details about transport to the island.

What should I bring?

Wet weather gear, stout footwear and binoculars are recommended.

Why not make a day of it?

Nearby attractions that you may also like to visit:

This is a partnership project with Tresco Abbey Gardens.