As our guest at Tregarthen’s Hotel, you have a place in the heart of life on the Isles of Scilly – the history of the hotel is intertwined with that of the islands themselves.
Tregarthen’s Hotel has played a special role in establishing the Isles of Scilly as a sought-after destination for visitors from the mainland and beyond. The hotel was founded in 1849 by Captain Frank Tregarthen, who ran the steam packet ‘Little Western’ delivering mail, provisions and visitors between Penzance and the Isles of Scilly. He began to bring visitors with him to the island of St Mary’s to stay at his house, which soon became the first hotel on the Isles of Scilly. It is said that the visitors were unable to leave until more supplies were needed from the mainland and ‘Little Western’ set to sea once more.
Tregarthen’s Hotel still has at its heart the original living quarters of Captain Frank Tregarthen – when you stay with us, you experience a unique part of the islands’ history.
Lord Alfred Tennyson is said to have penned ‘Enoch Arden’ during his stay here.
HM The King has visited Tregarthen’s Hotel on two occasions as Duke of Cornwall, for meetings with the Duchy Tenants Association. His most recent visit to the islands with the Duchess of Cornwall was in August 2012 to see the new school, which he had a hand in designing. Queen Camilla also came for an informal lunch at the hotel in July 2021.
Queen Elizabeth visited the hotel on 3rd June 2011, where Tregarthen’s hosted an official reception for 90 guests and a three course luncheon for HM The Queen, HRH Prince Phillip and guests.
