Old Town Bay, Cornwall — Beach Guide & Water Quality

Nearest town / village: Isles of Scilly
Parking: Limited / none on site — check locally
Coordinates: 49.90950, -6.30330

About Old Town Bay

Old Town Bay is a sand beach on the Cornish coast, close to Isles of Scilly.

This is one of Cornwall's quieter, more natural spots with few or no facilities on site — bring what you need for the day, and take your litter home with you.

Dogs are welcome here all year round. Cornish beaches can have strong tides and fast-changing conditions, so check the tide times and any local safety signage before you head down, and take particular care if you plan to swim.

Old Town Bay was St Mary's original harbour before Hugh Town took over, and its sheltered, south-facing sand still feels like the island's quiet front room. The bay is shallow and family-friendly, with a café by the beach and Old Town churchyard above it — where former Prime Minister Harold Wilson, a devoted Scilly regular, is buried.

Getting there

Old Town Bay is reached from the coast near Isles of Scilly. Head for the village and follow the signs or the coast path down to the shore — many Cornish coves involve a short walk from the nearest parking.