Flew into the Isles of Scilly for our honeymoon in a DeHaviland Dragon Rapide biplane sixty years ago. We have been back several times since, by sea and under our own steam in Cessna 150, 172 and Piper Cherokee. The scenery is so spectacular. Unforgettable!
A biplane, wow - never been in one. That must’ve been fantastic and, tbh, it’s taken me a long time to get over there but I certainly won’t forget it either. A brilliant experience 😊👍
That's proper flying!! Love the Twin Otter - especially the overhead thrust levers - so distinctive and characteristic. Really envied you watching the flight deck activity. Great video (and brilliant weather)!!
Very enjoyable watch. We holidayed in IOS in May this year and have booked again for June 2025. Magical place and thinking of Fly/sail in that order. Cannot wait ☀️.
Now I can see why Harold Wilson (British Prime Minister in the 60s and 70s) loved it so much. He had a very modest bungalow there, which his wife retired to. It was sold only recently following her death. Both of them are buried on the Isles I believe? Really enjoyed that Mark. Nice way to end a trip.
They're both buried in Old Town Churchyard. While you're there, it's worth carrying on around the coast until you reach the end of the airport runway. There are pedestrian control signals on the path, to stop you walking across the end of the runway when planes are landing or taking off, which is quite a cool experience. We are off to stay on St Mary's next month (we go whenever we can) and can't wait.
Cheers Shane, it was an amazing place. I don’t know much about the Harold Wilson thing tbh but it just goes to show, you don’t need a big house with lots of land necessarily. It just needs to be in the right place. I would love to retire here but I’m not sure I could afford it! I’ll definitely be back though 👍
@@jamesrichardson476 absolutely love the walk around St Marys via the coastal path. We did it from Old Town where we were staying, unfortunately no planes coming or going at the alarm point 😃.
With regard to the alarms, I worked in Nuclear facility here in Cumbria for 45 years and the alarm sound is exactly the same as a high airborne activity in air alarm. Happy memories of calculating exactly how much, very safely of course.😉
😮 wow God bless lady pilots ✅ absolutely great place to visit Mark the Polly tunnels they have to grow u name it they can grow it beautiful flowers and vegetables you must go back my friend you have only touched the tip of the iceberg 👍 on this wonderful cheap visit peanuts Mark! Anyway my friend thanks for the 📹 pal all the best John 😊😊
I have just replicated your trip after watching. Your channel , boy what a trip , fantastic , sail , fly back on the twin otter , taxi back to Penzance, in one day , highly recommended, many thanks , I did mention your UA-cam channel to the staff which they were pleased , cheers ,
Brilliant, I love it when someone does a similar trip and I hope you had as good a time as me Steve. When I think back now it was certainly the best day trip (all round) I’ve had for a long time! Special mention to the staff actually because they were excellent too 👍
WooHoo! That's my man, Mark. Nice quiet tour of the isle of St. Mary's. That's what I wanted to see. A little bit of the island and a taste of the place. You need to go back, though. I'd love to see a bit/lot more ;-) Well done! Paul in Oz.
Great video. I was lucky a couple of years ago when my son worked on S Marys so was able to visit for a few days. Good as it was, you would have enjoyed flying on the smaller plane. Just a pilot and no bulkhead and if you’re lucky you sit right behind the pilot with uninterrupted views.
That would be the Islander presumably. I flew some inter-island flights in Orkney last year on one. It is a great experience yes and I have a couple of vids on the channel on those trips 👍
What a great video, and a lovely end to my day, really relaxing and enjoyable - thank you so much - definitely this trip, including the ferry over to the island - is now on my bucket list. All the very best for future travels. I’ve watched several of your videos and am now happily subscribed! 👍
Great video, Mark. The weather looked perfect on the video, and the Isle of Scilly looked a great place to explore. I think it's a great way to travel and get the views from both land and sea, from your ferry across, to the aerial views on the return. Glad you had good weather for it. Andy.
Hi Mark.....Liverpool Kev here...Thank you for another wonderful video....I read a new ship due for the route?....I am going to repeat myself here (My only pleasure haha)....but you have such a relaxed presentation style....like travelling with a mate from the pub....yet excellent professional video ...Loved the flight...When I was working...I did a number of flights with VLM Prop aircraft from Liverpool to London City (20 mins check in at London City...What bliss!)...Thank you again Mark...Really cheered me up seeing you in the sunshine in the Scilly Isles...Take care as ever.....Liverpool Kev
Another great video on the Scillies. You mentioned in response to my comment on the earlier video that you might consider returning to the off islands in the future. That would make a wonderful video. Many people focus on the flora and fauna of the islands which can be very different to the mainland of the UK. One subject that has had less written about it in recent years are the huge number of ship wrecks on and around the islands. There are several books, nearly all out of print, but it is a fascinating story. While the air route you took is very short it is sometimes not without its challenges most notably in July 1983 when a British Airways Helicopters S61 crashed off the coast of Land’s End in poor visibility killing 20 of the 26 onboard. The Scillies are beautiful but as many have found the seas around them can be treacherous.
I did read about that helicopter crash - nasty! I will go back sometime and yes, hopefully make some more vids if there is enough interest. Stay for longer too next time and maybe fly out of Exeter 👍
Really glad you enjoyed your trip down here in the western tip of Cornwall. The Scillionian III holds a special place in my heart, and watching your video makes me realise I need another trip to the Scilly Isles it's just a magical place. I've never flown though but your video certainly makes me think I should give it a go.
Another great, informative and interesting video from you. You have so much enthusiasm in all you do for your viewers, and also your down to earth approach which is always appreciated. Your flight back was just amazing with some gorgeous scenery. Thank you Mark😊
What a lovely place. Thank you for showing us around. It’s definitely on my bucket list now. It looked a nice airport as well. The sail and fly ticket is a good idea. It’s really interesting watching the pilots, I enjoyed the landing. Reminds me of the Krypton Factor, remember that? I think we are spoiled by the choices on offer of exploring the far reaches of the UK.
I do remember the Krypton Factor yes! Definitely recommend the Isles and for me, the sail/rail is the best option just because it gives you another dimension to the trip. Helicopter next time!
Great stuff. It's a shame you could stay a fee nights, I used to live on Scilly and the best thing is often getting a boat trip over to one of the off islands. Also some great nights in The Atlantic!
Interesting Daz, I am going to go back so I may well ask you for some recommendations as next time I’ll definitely be staying a couple of nights at least. 👍
I really enjoyed this video The Isles of Scilly is such a stunning location with them quiet empty peaceful beaches places like that are so much more up my street. Nice flight from St Marys to Lands End Airport with the De Havilland DHC6 Twin Otter with Skybus and you are very lucky to be sat right behind the action that the cockpit holds. truly fascinating watching the pilots do their thing and getting up into the air for that breath taking scenery on the way into the mainland of Cornwall.
I totally agree. She was great and actually it doesn’t take much to turn the experience into a real day to remember and the pilot managed to do that. I’ll never forget it, a brilliant day 😊👍
An excellent exploration of a "hidden gem" of an island - the unveiling of each part of the countryside vistas was highly enjoyable and expertly done - highly commended !
Lovely vid, both inbound crossing and outbound flight. Sitting watching this in my cottage up at Pelistry, one week left to enjoy these islands, before a return on the "Big white stomach pump" to the drudgery of life!!
Wow you certainly enjoyed that and with the loverly weather and superb flight no wonder you did. I have never been in such a small plane when flying to a small Island though I did a solo helicopter tour in LA in 05 and it was just the pilot and myself which was amazing. The price of your trip looked very reasonable considering all the elements and looks to have been money well spent. Another place ticked off.
Cheers mate. Yep, for the price it was good value. If you want to do the even smaller Islander, I would recommend going up to the Orkneys and doing the inter-island flights. Trouble is, it’s quite expensive to get there in the first place!
Sounds like you might have caught the Scilly bug. We first went there about 40 years ago and have been back 10 times for holidays. If you go back try the launches to the off islands and try the beaches on St. Martins. Thanks for an excellent video.
I flew there and back in 2001, on the outward journey I sat to the right and just behind the seat of the vacant pilots seat with similar views to yours , the plane was a Britton Norman Islander, it didn’t look as big as your’s I think about 10 or 12 seats, on the return journey I was at the back, if I remember rightly is was quite cramped, in those days the Lands End St Just airfield was a grass strip a good 4 days break
It’s a great flight in either aircraft. Yes the Islander is a bit smaller - I flew around Orkney in one and the main difference I guess I no bulkhead between you and the pilots so you are literally looking over their shoulder or if you’re lucky get the co-pilots seat when full.
Excellent delivery as always Mark, stunning scenery, lovely weather, just perfect, I don't know if you've ever done Glasgow to Barra Mark, it's a must mate, landing on the beach in such a beautiful location, I did it last year, honestly, it's on another level bud, thanks Mark 👍
Absolutely fabulous vid that one Mark, its clear you had a super time in the making of that and that came across really well, what a lovely place the Scilly Isles are indeed, looked quite idyllic. Its a place I've never been but you've made me want to go! Definitely helped by the glorious weather you encountered, i might have to sample that maybe in the summertime. :) I was well impressed by the fact that you went in via coach to Penzance then sailing to St Marys and flight back, just my sort of variety :D The plane journey on the Twin Otter looked a treat, also just my sort of thing. The reference to Pratt & Whitney engines took me back, and the noise from them did as well! I once did all that gadding about in the HIghlands of Scotland, just been enjoying your vid on that subject, i was fortunate enough once to get into the cockpit seat on the Westray/Papa Westray service way back in the 80s, all 90 seconds or so of it! :) Headphones and all listening to air-traffic control guiding us in, the most amazing experience ever! Landed on the beach on Barra on that trip as well. :) All that is what i always call PROPER flying, with the weight distribution and all of those things a major factor and so much more personal an experience than the regular commercial airlines provide that we have all become accustomed to. So well done again, living and reliving your travel experiences via You-Tube have become an essential part of my viewing habits now, so much better than the 'normal' tv schedules. But well done again, you are never actually alone on these trips, they are highly informative and quite addictive too so keep up the good work mate as often as you can. :)
Cheers Phil and I appreciate you taking the time to comment mate. I’m glad this stuff brings back fond memories. Actually I may go back to Barra myself, it’s such a great landing 👍
Nice video, enjoyed it especially being from Jersey, which is huge in comparison! That plane reminds me of the flying coffins from Guernsey to Jersey they used to run in the days. Made you feel wealthy as it felt you were on a private plane lol
I think these kind of flights are definitely more interesting (for me anyway) because of the potential opportunity to see what’s going on on the flightdeck and the lower cruising altitude. Always think it feels more like flying than the normal airliner stuff you get.
Indeed the isles of Scilly look like a hidden gem in their own right. And presumably the flight is also the only way to the Isles during the times ferries do not operate. As for me, I am soon off to Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth in 10 days
Yep, Skybus or the helicopter (which I haven’t looked into tbh). Enjoy Aber, I hope the weather’s kind! If you need any advice on Shrewsbury, let me know 👍
@@LetsMakeaTrip if you have any recommendations for pubs and not to miss heritage sites that would be great from your end Mark. I'll be staying at the Vaults
From the Vaults head up the bank to Oil and across the road from that, Dough & Oil is good for pizza. Not sure I’m gonna be around tbh but do let me know what your plans are via Ko-fi or dm 👍
The Twin Otter, that serves Scilly is just :) However they did have a fleet of Britten Norman Islanders, Isles of Scilly Travel did, which used to operate and that was proper flying, the best experience that I can remember from flying on the Twin Otters, was of course me, and three other people got on the last flight of the day, we were all slightly delayed, and the female pilot, managed to give us a tour over the other Islands before landing at St Mary's.
There were a couple of Islanders I think. The one on the ramp was full of cargo so I don’t know if it was being used exclusively for that and maybe there are more later on in the year if frequencies and demand increases, I flew one on the Orkney inter-island service last year and yes, another great experience 👍
And having never seen any Scilly Isles footage before, to my knowledge straight after your excellent production Mark I see Michael Portillo's visit was on the BBC (now on i-player) last week. He cheated though and flew in by helicopter 😁 it does certainly look a very nice place 👌
Does look like it was one of those dreamily super days! I was under the impression that the helicopter service ceased several years ago - but its appears to be up and running from your video!
What an absolutely stunning place, really impressed actually. I’ve seen more of these beautiful islands in your video than anything I’ve seen on tv. Same procedure for flying offshore on helicopter, check in then watch the flight brief on a tv then go on the aircraft. I also enjoy sitting on a similar seat on a helicopter and watching the pilots do their thing and looking out the window, unfortunately since Covid some of the helicopters had plastic flappy doors put in behind the pilots which ruined the view looking into the flight deck but really depends on make and model of helicopter and operating company
Cheers Walter, that is something I’ve never experienced on a helicopter. I’d like to try it one day though back over to St Mary’s rather than the rigs tbh (though I’m sure they’re interesting in themselves). Maybe I’ll have a look at Penzance helicopters for next year 👍
That looked great 😊🛩 12 years ago I volunteered with the Wildlife Trust there for a month. I really liked St. Agnes. It had a different feel to the other islands. I liked how the road there just kind of faded away and the idea that the next road available would be in Newfoundland (one of those day dream moments lol) On a separate note (I'm probably not the only one to suggest this idea) but I saw you met up with Johnny Hoover. I had an idea of you teaming up with Johnny to take on Steve Marsh and Scott Mansen in some kind of good natured travel related challenge. Maybe with GLovesTrains as referee (I know it might be hard to organise as you are all busy working hard on your own respective channels. Might be fun though 😆)
Hi Barry, cheers for the comment. I did message Scott a couple of times but never got a response. I won’t bother again so I doubt it’s going to happen unfortunately 🤷♂️
An interesting fact for you. When they bought one of the twin otters a few years back in 2013 they were flown back Calgery Alberta Canada and flew back to Cornwall. 4500 mile flight, It took them 6 days stopping off at Greenland and Iceland to refuel.
I’ve heard of these kind of flights but yep, must take quite a while. I always thought Wick was well-known as a stop-off point for these type of flights.
Flown a few times on a twin otter from Edinburg to Tingwall Shetland, 3 hours ,cup of tea and a biscuit. Didn't like sitting next to those things that go round and round though, what if they came off😱😱😂😂
Well I can enjoy a long coach trip, if it’s good. I’m sure plenty of people will watch if it’s bad too! Thanks for the suggestion, I’ve popped it on the list 😊👍
@@LetsMakeaTrip yea, would be interesting to see how your journey experience for this would be :) Edit update Around thirteen hours or so in travel😊 Thank you for doing this And considering my suggestion
Interesting video, marred only by wind noise... The "outlying islands" are known as "off-islands", BTW! Also well done for calling then _The Isles of Scilly,_ not _the Scilly Isles_ !
Surprised at the open cockpit , was there any security checks before boarding ?, you can tell i'm only used to international flights,. also taken aback by the islands roads, i was expecting lanes, is the island simalar size to anglesey/iom/iow ?, or scottish isles ? for comparison ,. cheers mark,.ps, are you related to any of the swains transport fraternity ?, steve/glyn,.
Cheers Mike. The isles are a lot smaller than Anglesey. St Mary’s is the main isle so I guess the road you saw would’ve probably been the widest. I’m not related to the haulage people afaik but yep, I’m aware of them - they’ve been around here for a long time!
Think I would have got the ferry back, not keen on flying in any aircraft certainly not a light one. Last experience of one 60 years ago did not end well having an emergency landing on a beach, engine failure, a wet one as the tide was rising quickly, the distance between the groynes too short so had to set down in shallow water beyond them. Only a few inches but caused the bi-plane to flip over.
Flew into the Isles of Scilly for our honeymoon in a DeHaviland Dragon Rapide biplane sixty years ago. We have been back several times since, by sea and under our own steam in Cessna 150, 172 and Piper Cherokee. The scenery is so spectacular. Unforgettable!
A biplane, wow - never been in one. That must’ve been fantastic and, tbh, it’s taken me a long time to get over there but I certainly won’t forget it either. A brilliant experience 😊👍
That's proper flying!! Love the Twin Otter - especially the overhead thrust levers - so distinctive and characteristic. Really envied you watching the flight deck activity. Great video (and brilliant weather)!!
Cheers Michael. Yes it gives that extra dimension to a flight doesn’t it. Very pleased to get the front row 👍
Also the Airport at St Mary's has possibly the best Coffee Shop of any airport in the world :)
If I’d have known that! 😂
Very enjoyable watch. We holidayed in IOS in May this year and have booked again for June 2025. Magical place and thinking of Fly/sail in that order. Cannot wait ☀️.
Now I can see why Harold Wilson (British Prime Minister in the 60s and 70s) loved it so much. He had a very modest bungalow there, which his wife retired to. It was sold only recently following her death. Both of them are buried on the Isles I believe? Really enjoyed that Mark. Nice way to end a trip.
They're both buried in Old Town Churchyard. While you're there, it's worth carrying on around the coast until you reach the end of the airport runway. There are pedestrian control signals on the path, to stop you walking across the end of the runway when planes are landing or taking off, which is quite a cool experience. We are off to stay on St Mary's next month (we go whenever we can) and can't wait.
Cheers Shane, it was an amazing place. I don’t know much about the Harold Wilson thing tbh but it just goes to show, you don’t need a big house with lots of land necessarily. It just needs to be in the right place. I would love to retire here but I’m not sure I could afford it! I’ll definitely be back though 👍
James, I did hear the alarms sounding when walking up to the airport so that must be what you’re referring to. I’ll check it out next time. Cheers 😊
@@jamesrichardson476 absolutely love the walk around St Marys via the coastal path. We did it from Old Town where we were staying, unfortunately no planes coming or going at the alarm point 😃.
With regard to the alarms, I worked in Nuclear facility here in Cumbria for 45 years and the alarm sound is exactly the same as a high airborne activity in air alarm. Happy memories of calculating exactly how much, very safely of course.😉
I was lucky to visit the isles of Scilly as a cruise port of call. What a gem. It should be on everyone's bucket list.
No it shouldn't! Leave them alone.
Such a lovely place. Didn’t realise cruise ships stopped there.
😮 wow God bless lady pilots ✅ absolutely great place to visit Mark the Polly tunnels they have to grow u name it they can grow it beautiful flowers and vegetables you must go back my friend you have only touched the tip of the iceberg 👍 on this wonderful cheap visit peanuts Mark! Anyway my friend thanks for the 📹 pal all the best John 😊😊
Cheers John and yes, I’ll definitely be back one day. Too much still to see!
Dogbox made me smile! It was the nickname in the East Midlands for the class 153s!
Yes, same over here in Shropshire.
Or Scuds 😂
I have just replicated your trip after watching. Your channel , boy what a trip , fantastic , sail , fly back on the twin otter , taxi back to Penzance, in one day , highly recommended, many thanks , I did mention your UA-cam channel to the staff which they were pleased , cheers ,
Brilliant, I love it when someone does a similar trip and I hope you had as good a time as me Steve. When I think back now it was certainly the best day trip (all round) I’ve had for a long time! Special mention to the staff actually because they were excellent too 👍
I thought for a hot second we were going to get the trip summary in song 🤣. What a fantastic day out with stunning weather. Cheers!
That’s given me an idea 😂 cheers hh 😊
Great video and picked a perfect day for that flight. Not sure I'd want to be on that when it's bad weather or windy 😮 ✈️
I did get lucky with the second second time around. Perseverance and all that 😊
Wow, you weren't wrong when you said the isles were stunning, I think this trip has now made my list. Great video, thank you
Cheers Steve and thanks for watching/commenting. It’s appreciated, thanks 😊👍
WooHoo! That's my man, Mark. Nice quiet tour of the isle of St. Mary's. That's what I wanted to see. A little bit of the island and a taste of the place. You need to go back, though. I'd love to see a bit/lot more ;-) Well done! Paul in Oz.
Cheers Paul, glad I did this as I know you wanted to see a bit more. Pleased you enjoyed it mate 😊👍
Great video. I was lucky a couple of years ago when my son worked on S Marys so was able to visit for a few days. Good as it was, you would have enjoyed flying on the smaller plane. Just a pilot and no bulkhead and if you’re lucky you sit right behind the pilot with uninterrupted views.
That would be the Islander presumably. I flew some inter-island flights in Orkney last year on one. It is a great experience yes and I have a couple of vids on the channel on those trips 👍
What a great video, and a lovely end to my day, really relaxing and enjoyable - thank you so much - definitely this trip, including the ferry over to the island - is now on my bucket list. All the very best for future travels. I’ve watched several of your videos and am now happily subscribed! 👍
Another great video always look forward to your content all the best from ireland
Thanks mate, appreciate the comment 😊👍
My first trip in a Twin Otter was from Blackpool to the Isle of Man. Great little plane!
It is. Landed on Barra beach in one. Superb that was!
Stunningly beautiful. Everything about this... beautiful.
It was a fantastic trip, unforgettable really in such surprisingly good weather for the time of year 👍
One of the best places I've ever been too .
Thanks Mark for an excellent video! It is the first video of yours I have ever watched. It will certainly not be the last!
Brilliant! Well thanks for the comment and welcome to the channel 😊👍
Yeah I enjoy your videos
Great video, Mark. The weather looked perfect on the video, and the Isle of Scilly looked a great place to explore. I think it's a great way to travel and get the views from both land and sea, from your ferry across, to the aerial views on the return. Glad you had good weather for it. Andy.
Yep, second time lucky Andy but it turned out pretty well I thought. Will definitely be back 👍
nice one, mark.I watch your travel vids a lot I seem to get the feeling I am actually there, while watching, great stuff.
Brilliant! Cheers Derek and thanks very much for the support 😊👍
Hi Mark.....Liverpool Kev here...Thank you for another wonderful video....I read a new ship due for the route?....I am going to repeat myself here (My only pleasure haha)....but you have such a relaxed presentation style....like travelling with a mate from the pub....yet excellent professional video ...Loved the flight...When I was working...I did a number of flights with VLM Prop aircraft from Liverpool to London City (20 mins check in at London City...What bliss!)...Thank you again Mark...Really cheered me up seeing you in the sunshine in the Scilly Isles...Take care as ever.....Liverpool Kev
Stunning, stunning, stunning. What a lovely day out!
It was beautiful wasn’t it 😊
Hi Mark, what a fabulous place idyllic place like England back in the sixties.. 👍🏻
Thanks Michael. Yes coming here makes you realise how times have changed in other parts I think.
What a great way to do a day trip to Scilly isles. Very enjoyable thanks
Cheers Neil, thanks for watching mate 😊
What a beautiful place, Mark and a fantastic flight too 😊👍
It was unforgettable, absolutely stunning 😊👍
Your enjoyment and enthusiasm of this trip came across. Cracking weather too!
Cheers Tim. The weather helps doesn’t it, certainly lifted my spirits!
Another great video on the Scillies. You mentioned in response to my comment on the earlier video that you might consider returning to the off islands in the future. That would make a wonderful video. Many people focus on the flora and fauna of the islands which can be very different to the mainland of the UK. One subject that has had less written about it in recent years are the huge number of ship wrecks on and around the islands. There are several books, nearly all out of print, but it is a fascinating story.
While the air route you took is very short it is sometimes not without its challenges most notably in July 1983 when a British Airways Helicopters S61 crashed off the coast of Land’s End in poor visibility killing 20 of the 26 onboard. The Scillies are beautiful but as many have found the seas around them can be treacherous.
I did read about that helicopter crash - nasty! I will go back sometime and yes, hopefully make some more vids if there is enough interest. Stay for longer too next time and maybe fly out of Exeter 👍
Really glad you enjoyed your trip down here in the western tip of Cornwall. The Scillionian III holds a special place in my heart, and watching your video makes me realise I need another trip to the Scilly Isles it's just a magical place. I've never flown though but your video certainly makes me think I should give it a go.
Another great, informative and interesting video from you. You have so much enthusiasm in all you do for your viewers, and also your down to earth approach which is always appreciated. Your flight back was just amazing with some gorgeous scenery. Thank you Mark😊
Thanks Diana and I appreciate you taking the time to comment - lovely to hear, thank you 😊
Beautiful views. Stunning 😍
Not sure you would get me on a small plane like that 😬 Thank you for taking us along for the ride 🤗
Thanks. Small aircraft though means it feels more like proper flying (imho). Loved it! 😊👍
Great video. It's on my bucket list now. Thanks
Pleasure mate 😊
What a lovely place. Thank you for showing us around. It’s definitely on my bucket list now. It looked a nice airport as well. The sail and fly ticket is a good idea. It’s really interesting watching the pilots, I enjoyed the landing. Reminds me of the Krypton Factor, remember that? I think we are spoiled by the choices on offer of exploring the far reaches of the UK.
I do remember the Krypton Factor yes! Definitely recommend the Isles and for me, the sail/rail is the best option just because it gives you another dimension to the trip. Helicopter next time!
Beautiful trip and nice Merc E Class on the taxi ride back too😆
Cheers Alex, yep the taxi sure beat the bus on this occasion! 😊
Hi, Matt. Thanks for brining back many happy memories of fly the Otter. Quite a few flights to and from Lukla and Pokhara. Another great review❤🙃🙂
A pleasure, glad it brought back good memories. Maybe I’ll fly into Lukla one day!
Superb video Mark, wow ! What a great little flight,
Fantastic views, I could easily be tempted to try this one,
Many thanks again 😁
Thanks Gary 😊👍
I loved this one Mark, it made me want to visit, always a sign of a great video!
Thanks. And I agree, if I’m watching someone else’s channel it can sometimes give my ideas of places and videos too.
What a lovely video, the island looks so peaceful and the flight very scenic, thank you and take care.
Cheers Simon, it certainly gave me that impression too 👍
That is an amazing flight vlog! Thanks for sharing this! I would love to do this trip, but it is very costly!
Excellent work 🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺👍👍👍👍👍🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷🍷
Thanks Derisley 😊😊😊🏝️🏝️🏝️🏝️🏝️🏝️🏴🏴
Stunning!!!! Thanks Mark
Pleasure Adam 😊
Great stuff. It's a shame you could stay a fee nights, I used to live on Scilly and the best thing is often getting a boat trip over to one of the off islands. Also some great nights in The Atlantic!
Interesting Daz, I am going to go back so I may well ask you for some recommendations as next time I’ll definitely be staying a couple of nights at least. 👍
Great video. Really enjoyed. Many thanks.
Cheers and thanks for taking the time to comment 😊👍
Excellent! Thanks Mark!
Cheers mate 😊👍
I enjoyed that very much thank you
My pleasure, thanks for watching 😊👍
Great Mark, I’m looking forward to doing this trip next week and hoping I get decent weather as you did. Cheers.
Good luck with the weather mate. I hope you have a great time 👍
Brilliant video and beautiful scenery both on the land and the views from the aircraft!! Hood all is well and hope you have a great weekend, take care
Cheers Peter, just got back from another trip. V tired! Hope you’re good and thanks for watching as always 😊👍
Great little trip Mark. So much enjoying your adventures. 👍
Thanks Billy and I appreciate the comment mate 😊👍
Great vlog Mark!
Cheers James 😊👍
I really enjoyed this video The Isles of Scilly is such a stunning location with them quiet empty peaceful beaches places like that are so much more up my street. Nice flight from St Marys to Lands End Airport with the De Havilland DHC6 Twin Otter with Skybus and you are very lucky to be sat right behind the action that the cockpit holds. truly fascinating watching the pilots do their thing and getting up into the air for that breath taking scenery on the way into the mainland of Cornwall.
It was a truly memorable trip Al, I hope that came across in the video and I’ll definitely go back there soon. Loved it!
Great watch Mark..what a lovely part of the world.
It is, cheers mate and thanks for the comment 😊
Used to Refuel Skybus as well as Other Airlines and the Captain in this Video is One of the Nicest Pilots You'll Ever meet.
I totally agree. She was great and actually it doesn’t take much to turn the experience into a real day to remember and the pilot managed to do that. I’ll never forget it, a brilliant day 😊👍
An enjoyable video. Thank you.
Cheers Ian and thanks for leaving a comment 😊👍
Fantastic video Mark. Best of both worlds with the weather, and brought back great memories seeing those beaches again :)
Cheers Andy, glad you enjoyed it 😊👍
wowers brillint video again thank you mark!!
Cheers Caleb and thanks for watching mate 😊
What a wonderful time you had, so lucky with the weather too
I was lucky with the weather yes. A memorable trip it truly was.
An excellent exploration of a "hidden gem" of an island - the unveiling of each part of the countryside vistas was highly enjoyable and expertly done - highly commended !
Thanks very much. Appreciate the comment 😊👍
That was lovely.
Thank you Clare
Lovely vid, both inbound crossing and outbound flight. Sitting watching this in my cottage up at Pelistry, one week left to enjoy these islands, before a return on the "Big white stomach pump" to the drudgery of life!!
Cheers Dilwyn. Good luck with the ferry and I definitely know what you mean wrt your last comment!
Wow you certainly enjoyed that and with the loverly weather and superb flight no wonder you did. I have never been in such a small plane when flying to a small Island though I did a solo helicopter tour in LA in 05 and it was just the pilot and myself which was amazing. The price of your trip looked very reasonable considering all the elements and looks to have been money well spent. Another place ticked off.
Cheers mate. Yep, for the price it was good value. If you want to do the even smaller Islander, I would recommend going up to the Orkneys and doing the inter-island flights. Trouble is, it’s quite expensive to get there in the first place!
Absolutely amazing mate! Going even higher up the bucket list!
Cheers! Yes another one for you to try that I would recommend! Well-worth the effort of getting here 👍
Sounds like you might have caught the Scilly bug. We first went there about 40 years ago and have been back 10 times for holidays. If you go back try the launches to the off islands and try the beaches on St. Martins. Thanks for an excellent video.
Definitely Anthony and when I go back it will be for a lot longer so I can try some of these other islands too 👍
I flew there and back in 2001, on the outward journey I sat to the right and just behind the seat of the vacant pilots seat with similar views to yours , the plane was a Britton Norman Islander, it didn’t look as big as your’s I think about 10 or 12 seats, on the return journey I was at the back, if I remember rightly is was quite cramped, in those days the Lands End St Just airfield was a grass strip a good 4 days break
It’s a great flight in either aircraft. Yes the Islander is a bit smaller - I flew around Orkney in one and the main difference I guess I no bulkhead between you and the pilots so you are literally looking over their shoulder or if you’re lucky get the co-pilots seat when full.
It looks incredible ❤
It was beautiful Clare 😊👍
Great work as always!
Cheers Craig.
Place looks awesome
It is 😊👍
Really informative video. Many Thanks.
Cheers Richard, thanks for commenting 😊
Excellent delivery as always Mark, stunning scenery, lovely weather, just perfect, I don't know if you've ever done Glasgow to Barra Mark, it's a must mate, landing on the beach in such a beautiful location, I did it last year, honestly, it's on another level bud, thanks Mark 👍
Cheers mate. I have done the Barra thing but quite a few years ago before this UA-cam stuff tbh. May have to go back 👍
Very nice trip. Cheap as chips too. Thanks.
Cheers Paul, yep pretty good vfm I thought 👍
Absolutely fabulous vid that one Mark, its clear you had a super time in the making of that and that came across really well, what a lovely place the Scilly Isles are indeed, looked quite idyllic. Its a place I've never been but you've made me want to go! Definitely helped by the glorious weather you encountered, i might have to sample that maybe in the summertime. :) I was well impressed by the fact that you went in via coach to Penzance then sailing to St Marys and flight back, just my sort of variety :D The plane journey on the Twin Otter looked a treat, also just my sort of thing. The reference to Pratt & Whitney engines took me back, and the noise from them did as well! I once did all that gadding about in the HIghlands of Scotland, just been enjoying your vid on that subject, i was fortunate enough once to get into the cockpit seat on the Westray/Papa Westray service way back in the 80s, all 90 seconds or so of it! :) Headphones and all listening to air-traffic control guiding us in, the most amazing experience ever! Landed on the beach on Barra on that trip as well. :) All that is what i always call PROPER flying, with the weight distribution and all of those things a major factor and so much more personal an experience than the regular commercial airlines provide that we have all become accustomed to. So well done again, living and reliving your travel experiences via You-Tube have become an essential part of my viewing habits now, so much better than the 'normal' tv schedules. But well done again, you are never actually alone on these trips, they are highly informative and quite addictive too so keep up the good work mate as often as you can. :)
Cheers Phil and I appreciate you taking the time to comment mate. I’m glad this stuff brings back fond memories. Actually I may go back to Barra myself, it’s such a great landing 👍
@@LetsMakeaTrip I was watching your Jersey video last night, which was of big interest of course! 👍
Great Video
Cheers Paul 😊👍
Nice video, enjoyed it especially being from Jersey, which is huge in comparison! That plane reminds me of the flying coffins from Guernsey to Jersey they used to run in the days. Made you feel wealthy as it felt you were on a private plane lol
I think these kind of flights are definitely more interesting (for me anyway) because of the potential opportunity to see what’s going on on the flightdeck and the lower cruising altitude. Always think it feels more like flying than the normal airliner stuff you get.
Indeed the isles of Scilly look like a hidden gem in their own right. And presumably the flight is also the only way to the Isles during the times ferries do not operate.
As for me, I am soon off to Shrewsbury and Aberystwyth in 10 days
Yep, Skybus or the helicopter (which I haven’t looked into tbh). Enjoy Aber, I hope the weather’s kind! If you need any advice on Shrewsbury, let me know 👍
@@LetsMakeaTrip if you have any recommendations for pubs and not to miss heritage sites that would be great from your end Mark. I'll be staying at the Vaults
From the Vaults head up the bank to Oil and across the road from that, Dough & Oil is good for pizza. Not sure I’m gonna be around tbh but do let me know what your plans are via Ko-fi or dm 👍
Telegraph Road???? Makes me wonder if Dire Straits ever went there!!!!
Yes, a nice thought though it was in Michigan apparently (I looked it up tbh 😂). 40-odd years-old that song too.
The Twin Otter, that serves Scilly is just :) However they did have a fleet of Britten Norman Islanders, Isles of Scilly Travel did, which used to operate and that was proper flying, the best experience that I can remember from flying on the Twin Otters, was of course me, and three other people got on the last flight of the day, we were all slightly delayed, and the female pilot, managed to give us a tour over the other Islands before landing at St Mary's.
I think I saw at least one Islander on the apron at Lands End airport near the end of the video. 😀
There were a couple of Islanders I think. The one on the ramp was full of cargo so I don’t know if it was being used exclusively for that and maybe there are more later on in the year if frequencies and demand increases, I flew one on the Orkney inter-island service last year and yes, another great experience 👍
And having never seen any Scilly Isles footage before, to my knowledge straight after your excellent production Mark I see Michael Portillo's visit was on the BBC (now on i-player) last week. He cheated though and flew in by helicopter 😁 it does certainly look a very nice place 👌
Ooh I might have to watch that 👍
@@LetsMakeaTrip he went into Tresco first. Every little helps... Or something like that 😆 and then to St Mary's later in the show
I went to the IOS maybe 20yrs ago. There is an old 17/18th century fort on the island that you could have gone to.
Yes, one for next time hopefully. I’ll definitely be back 👍
My wife and I did this trip in 1971 in a de Havilland Dragon Rapide
Sounds fantastic. I don’t think I’ve ever seen one, let alone flown in one!
Lovely island. Worlds away from certain issues on the mainland...
Certainly feels that way. My kind of place!
Saw the scales thought they would weight you ! I was weighing many years ago on a flight over the grand canyon in a 12 seater plane
Yes and maybe that’s why the rest of the front row was left empty?
Does look like it was one of those dreamily super days! I was under the impression that the helicopter service ceased several years ago - but its appears to be up and running from your video!
Yes I wasn’t sure Tim tbh but judging by the signage, it must be.
What an absolutely stunning place, really impressed actually. I’ve seen more of these beautiful islands in your video than anything I’ve seen on tv. Same procedure for flying offshore on helicopter, check in then watch the flight brief on a tv then go on the aircraft. I also enjoy sitting on a similar seat on a helicopter and watching the pilots do their thing and looking out the window, unfortunately since Covid some of the helicopters had plastic flappy doors put in behind the pilots which ruined the view looking into the flight deck but really depends on make and model of helicopter and operating company
Cheers Walter, that is something I’ve never experienced on a helicopter. I’d like to try it one day though back over to St Mary’s rather than the rigs tbh (though I’m sure they’re interesting in themselves). Maybe I’ll have a look at Penzance helicopters for next year 👍
What was the red light on the annunciator panel?
That looked great 😊🛩 12 years ago I volunteered with the Wildlife Trust there for a month. I really liked St. Agnes. It had a different feel to the other islands. I liked how the road there just kind of faded away and the idea that the next road available would be in Newfoundland (one of those day dream moments lol) On a separate note (I'm probably not the only one to suggest this idea) but I saw you met up with Johnny Hoover. I had an idea of you teaming up with Johnny to take on Steve Marsh and Scott Mansen in some kind of good natured travel related challenge. Maybe with GLovesTrains as referee (I know it might be hard to organise as you are all busy working hard on your own respective channels. Might be fun though 😆)
Hi Barry, cheers for the comment. I did message Scott a couple of times but never got a response. I won’t bother again so I doubt it’s going to happen unfortunately 🤷♂️
Id probably have a night there, though i guess it wouldn't be cheap for accommodation 👍
I haven’t looked into it yet but I will do. I’m not expecting it to be cheap either!
An interesting fact for you. When they bought one of the twin otters a few years back in 2013 they were flown back Calgery Alberta Canada and flew back to Cornwall. 4500 mile flight, It took them 6 days stopping off at Greenland and Iceland to refuel.
I’ve heard of these kind of flights but yep, must take quite a while. I always thought Wick was well-known as a stop-off point for these type of flights.
That plane is older than me!
No banks now! The last one, Lloyds, closed a year ago.
Sign of the times that 😐
The best STOL aircraft ever. You ought to try one into St Bart's, with the runway that's famously approached in a 45 degree nose dive 🛬
I’d love to one day. Need to save my pennies up though for that one!
Flown a few times on a twin otter from Edinburg to Tingwall Shetland, 3 hours ,cup of tea and a biscuit. Didn't like sitting next to those things that go round and round though, what if they came off😱😱😂😂
Haha, I’ve been on the Saab up to Shetland. It’s a long way on a Twin Otter though!
Is there a bus service on the Isles Of Scilly??
Am going In two weeks am just doing the boat. When booked they told me we get 4 hours on the island.
The timetables may change now Martin. I did this before the clocks changed so that may make a difference?
The island looks lovely, but I would have to take the ferry, I've never been on a plane and the flying segment gave me anxiety lol.
I had a nice journey out on the ferry. Only thing is it’s a little too short a time on the island if you’re doing the day trip.
Have you tried the service operated by Loganair that lands on the beach in the Hebrides (Barra, is it?)?
I have done that, but a few years ago tbh. Way before I did this UA-cam but it would be a good excuse to go back 👍
A video idea from me as a viewer; London to Inverness by coach 😮
Would require a early start from you to make this 😅
You do Love a Long video.
Well I can enjoy a long coach trip, if it’s good. I’m sure plenty of people will watch if it’s bad too! Thanks for the suggestion, I’ve popped it on the list 😊👍
@@LetsMakeaTrip yea, would be interesting to see how your journey experience for this would be :)
Edit update
Around thirteen hours or so in travel😊
Thank you for doing this
And considering my suggestion
Interesting video, marred only by wind noise...
The "outlying islands" are known as "off-islands", BTW!
Also well done for calling then _The Isles of Scilly,_ not _the Scilly Isles_ !
15:28 though..
Surprised at the open cockpit , was there any security checks before boarding ?, you can tell i'm only used to international flights,. also taken aback by the islands roads, i was expecting lanes, is the island simalar size to anglesey/iom/iow ?, or scottish isles ? for comparison ,. cheers mark,.ps, are you related to any of the swains transport fraternity ?, steve/glyn,.
Cheers Mike. The isles are a lot smaller than Anglesey. St Mary’s is the main isle so I guess the road you saw would’ve probably been the widest. I’m not related to the haulage people afaik but yep, I’m aware of them - they’ve been around here for a long time!
New subscriber 🎉
Thanks Steven 😊
Think I would have got the ferry back, not keen on flying in any aircraft certainly not a light one. Last experience of one 60 years ago did not end well having an emergency landing on a beach, engine failure, a wet one as the tide was rising quickly, the distance between the groynes too short so had to set down in shallow water beyond them. Only a few inches but caused the bi-plane to flip over.
Blimey! I can see why you wouldn’t want to! Only problem is not having enough time on St Mary’s if you’re doing the day trip.