The Low Tide Event

When lunar forces combine to create dramatic Spring Tides, the channel between Tresco and Bryher is dry enough to cross between the islands on foot. Part way across is a long sandbar, usually under 20 feet of seawater. Never ones to pass up an opportunity for a shindig, we thought: that sounds like a good spot for a party!

Shortly before low tide, our Tresco and Hell Bay teams hop through the shallows to set up benches, a bar and firepits on the sandbar as the water recedes.

When the tide is low enough, people will begin making their way across from Tresco and Bryher, meeting in the middle to enjoy this totally unique Scillonian experience.

The Low Tide Experience may be a race against the tide, but there is always plenty to do in such a short space of time!

There's usually a feast of food and drink, with a Hell Bay gin bar, mini pasties, sausage rolls and cakes, as well as a stall from Bryher's Island Fish selling fresh fish, shellfish and paella (the stall usually takes the form of their fishing boat, the Emerald Dawn!) Please note: food and drink at the event is cash only.

Enjoy impromptu games or live music, or chat to the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust and discover more about the seabed around you.

Of course, being mid-channel gives you the option of spending the afternoon on Bryher or Tresco after the event, and Tresco Boat Services will provide a boat between Tresco and Bryher later in the day.

In 2021 we hope to hold a Low Tide Event on Thursday 7th October.

In 2022, we hope to hold Low Tide Events on Easter Monday 18th April and on Sunday 11th September.

Please note that all these events are subject to Coronavirus restrictions in place at the time.