When it comes to an island paradise, images of Mykonos, Maldives or Turks & Caicos come to mind but what about an idyllic destination on your doorstep? The UK offers numerous little-known island idylls that provide unquestionable charm and seclusion.

From romantic castle-topped locations off the coast of Cornwall to remote enclaves in Devon, see our guide to the most beautiful secret island escapes to visit without having to leave the UK.

Monkey Island

Set in the River Thames in the historic village of Bray, Berkshire, Monkey Island Estate has rich history centuries old and was once the stomping ground of monarchs, aristocrats and artists, along with writers, famous performers and Berkshire locals.

The two grade I listed heritage pavilions that form the estate dating back to 1723 have been completely restored and renovated, with beautifully landscaped gardens and views of the River Thames.

Monkey Island Estate features 40 guest rooms with traditional features with a modern, countryside style, creating a unique blend of past and present. It's the perfect base from which to immerse yourself in history against the backdrop of the delightful village of Bray.

For more information, visit www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk

Osea island

Essex

Set amidst the River Blackwater in Essex, Osea Island is a one-of-a-kind staycation getaway.

You’ll find a cinema, seaside restaurant, cycling trails, a cool seafood shack specialising in fresh shucked Blackwater and West Mersea oysters, sparkling wines and cocktails for that quintessential seaside experience.

Featuring a plethora of quirky houses that can sleep up to 10 guests, quiet surroundings, and an expansive coastline, Osea island is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of London.

It’s privately owned, and access is predominantly for guests staying there so a booking at one of the many rental houses is essential.

Secure your spot on the coveted island and book a stay at Manor House, a 10-sleeper, for your birthday, family celebration or a stylish getaway with friends.

Herm

Guernsey

They say there is no place like Herm, and after a visit to the beautiful island off the coast of Guernsey, they are not far short of the truth. The Island is abound with cultural things to do and the options of accommodation are plentiful.

An upmarket hotel, cosy cottages and log cabins are all available for romantic getaways, bigger groups or just the family. The south coast is home to high cliffs, winding flower-lined paths and white foam waves. A must-visit on our list of idyllic islands.

See more of the luxe island at Herm.com

Lundy

Devon

The cloistered island of Lundy lies just 12 miles off the coast of Devon and dates back to the Neolithic period when, in 1160, King Henry II granted the land to the Knights Templar. Visitors can tour the island and stay overnight in the self-catering converted lighthouses and castles that populate the island.

Visitors often travel to Lundy for it's Marine Protected Area which is one of the prime diving sites in the British Isles. Spectacularly clear waters, a diversity of marine life and many wrecks to explore make Lundy a must-visit this summer.

Visit Lundy Island for more. 

Brownsea Island

Dorset

Owned by the National Trust, Brownsea Island sits in Poole Harbour in Dorset. The boat trip to the island features a postcard-worthy coastline stretching 2.4km.

The island itself is a unique haven for wildlife and is home to a rich habitat including woodland, heathland and a magnificent lagoon. Although there is no accommodation on the island itself, visitors can stay nearby on the Poole mainland. 

For more information, visit their website National Trust.

Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly are an archipelago off the Cornish coast, in southwest England, just 28 miles off Land’s End. Famed for its temperate climate and flourishing sub-tropical gardens, Scilly consists of more than 100 islands, most of them rocky outcrops inhabited only by seals and seabirds.

The slow pace of life harks back to another age: there is very little traffic and the closest it gets to a rush hour is a crowd of day-trippers queuing on St Mary’s quay for the morning boats to the ‘off islands’ (St Martin’s, Tresco, St Agnes and Bryher).

Stay at the iconic Star Castle, a star-shaped fortress built in 1593 featuring thick stone walls, a dry moat, bell tower, dungeon bar and views of the off islands from lawned ramparts.

Sleep under oak beams in the castle or in an airy garden room, and dine in one of two atmospheric restaurants. The food is superb: home-grown produce, fresh seafood and, from this year, wines from the hotel’s own Scillonian vineyard. Doubles from £306, including a three-course dinner.

Anglesey

Wales

The Isle of Anglesey, or Ynys Mon, is an island and county in the northwest of Wales.

The island has a population of almost 70,000. With a high penetration of Welsh speakers, tourism is one of the major industries for the area.

Famous faces from Anglesey include Lemmy from Motorhead and actor/comedian Dawn French.

The island is rich with history; situated on the shore of the Menai Strait, Plas Newydd House & Gardens dates back to the 18th century. Now managed by the National Trust, it houses a military museum, an Australian arboretum and an exhibition of Rex Whistler paintings from the 1930s.

A must-visit for those wanting to have a staycation further afield amidst the beauty that is Wales.