Star castle in Cornwall, Isles of Scilly

After climbing the hill up to Star Castle Hotel we were blown away by the view,it was stunning. We we're greeted at the restaurant with a warm welcome and we're seated without any waiting. The staff remained professional and made our meal feel so special. The food was magnificent, delicious and served promptly. We overheard other diners exclaiming how delicious and tasty their meals were. Both our starters were so tasty, our mains were very filling and the desserts were to die for (I couldn't finish my pudding, I was so full!). The wine list is extensive and the staff have a very good knowledge and are competent in advising what goes best. We also got a lovely table and was able to catch a sunset. We had such a lovely experience here, we would definitely go again and highly recommend a visit!

As a non-resident, we didn't know the conservatory is a walk from the main building, perhaps explaining why some of the food was cold. The portions were less than generous though some were tasty. Tables were quite close together. I think the main building restaurant may do better.

Beautiful restaurant, peaceful ambience and very welcoming staff. However, we were all disappointed with the size of the portions of of our meal which were meagre for the price tag of £55 for three courses (pudding is an extra £4 approx). Rhubarb crumble served cold…. Thought crumble was served warm? Call me old fashioned. Overall a lovely venue, tasty food but just not enough of it.

Usually a favourite venue but on this visit my main course, Tandoori spice monkfish & spiced potatoes, was cold and the mushrooms uncooked. Returned to the kitchen ; the replacement was at least hot. I did have to ask for more cutlery after the food arrived at the table. My deconstructed rhubarb crumble pudding was COLD too….I didn’t bother with a replacement as the other 3 in the party had finished their puddings before I was offered a replacement. My complaint was well dealt with by a member of staff & a reduction in our bill was made but I am still very very sad about the whole episode. In general the meals for all of us were not of the usual standard we expect for what is, usually, an expensive but excellent meal in a beautiful venue. It was also mentioned that the table was not clean & there were crumbs and dust under the glass tops…. however, this was pretty much ignored. We felt that, as non hotel guests, we were a bit of a nuisance and some staff seemed to find it funny.

We booked The Star Castle for a special birthday dinner but could not be accommodated in the restaurant and we were booked into the conservatory instead. The only time available was 8pm. We were told it was the same menu and same experience. It certainly was not the same experience. The food was excellent, however the service was not. The initial member of waiting staff was professional, however the lady who brought out our main courses did not know what she was serving and plonked the dish in the middle of the table instead of giving it to the person whose meal it was. Her attitude was one of we were an inconvenience. She was also cleaning tables next to us using a Mr Muscle spray whilst we were still eating. When the staff served us cheesecake instead of a cheese board we heard them swearing about it and using the F word. Because of the late booking that the Star Castle made for us (not our choice) we were still in the restaurant at 9.45 which was clearly an inconvenience to the people working there. We asked for liqueurs after our meal, which weren’t available because we were in the conservatory. We did manage to have a glass of port, however no port glasses were available. We were told this was due to space in the conservatory. The price of the meal was no different between the main restaurant and the conservatory but customers in the conservatory get a second rate experience. At a cost of over £80 per head we will not be going back there. A very disappointing birthday meal.

I can’t say anything about the hotel but I would not recommend dinner. Downsizing the portion by two thirds and triple the prize does not turn a meal into four star quality.It is the taste of the dish, the presentation and the little things such as knives that actually cut, a clean table and a more than lukewarm dish. The staff on the other hand was very helpful and forthcoming and beyond any criticism.

I was looking forward to eating here, but was disappointed. I won't be returning. Though the starter was good and showed a bit of skill and imagination - albeit a very small portion - the main was very dull and not worth the money: a bit of overdone fish, a small spoonful of over-salted crab, with tasteless potatoes, a lump of bland root vegetable and a single cauliflower floret (which was the tastiest thing on the plate). No view, as the restaurant is surrounded by chalet-type rooms. Plus, I was charged almost £10 more than the price advertised on the website. This had apparently already gone up by £3 when I asked the waitress taking my order, and then by £10 when it came to paying the bill at reception. Staff pleasant, but not enough to make up for the sudden price hike and dull meal. Poor value.

Fabulous setting, delicious menu and lovely staff. We also saw the most beautiful sunset from the costal grounds. There is a great little bar for post dinner drinks.

Having visited the Star Castle for over 10 years when on Scilly from Cornwall we visited this weekend for lunch. Our usual meal is a crab sandwich with a drink. For the first time in a decade we were very disappointed. The crab in the sandwich was minimal ( confirmed by another guest who asked us for an opinion ) and poor value and having asked for a bitter lemon was served a mixer! I took this up and was served another this time with ice. But on this experience of a casual visit we are unlikely to return which is a great shame because the setting is historic, peaceful and it’s hard giving up on ten years of tradition. Keith Hambly-Staite

Went here a couple of times when staying at the hotel. The conservatory is, as you would expect, light and airy and the food quality and service without fault. Would definitely recommend as a change from the hotel dining room as long as the weather allows you to walk between the two!

We ate well in the Conservatory restaurant. The quality of the food was very good but the service was a little old fashioned and formal - we prefer a more relaxed experience. But, having said that we were saved efficiently and the waiting staff were always polite and helpful.

Our champagne afternoon tea was amazing. The scones were so light. There was so much lovely clotted cream. We were so impressed that we went back for lunch but that wasn't very good. The fish and chips were poor. The fish was tiny. They forgot our cutlery. Forgot our napkins and forgot our sauces. I recommend the afternoon tea.

A hotel in a castle overlooking the garrison on St Marys - history is ever present - enjoyed a simple lunch - well cooked washed down with local beers - the guy running the bar was extremely helpful and set us on a fascinating walk around the garrison wall - which was a real experience. Highly recommended

Our evening began with a lovely welcome from very attentive staff; service was exceptional. Unusual, stunning building and unique location. Beautifully set out, romantic, fine dining room, relaxed with a lovely ambiance. Excellent menu selection, food cooked to perfection, beautifully presented and with the most amazing flavours. A very special experience. Wouldn’t hesitate to return.

We booked dinner here short notice in July but we got a table for 2 in the Conservatory restaurant, food was amazing, we had 5 courses, staff brilliant, we camped on St Marys at Garrison, so we thought we would treat ourselves on our last night on Scilly, totally worth it.

Ate in the Conservatory quite a few times during our stay. Lovely atmosphere, surroundings and preferable to the dining room for it's decor and less formality. Wonderful food and wine and service.

Went on a rainy night and pleased to get into the cellar bar in the dry. Advised where to find the conservatory restaurant but would have preferred being guided along the poorly lit and slippery stone paths in the castle grounds as not straight forward...

Varied set menu served in lovely conservatory by welcoming efficient staff. Repeat visit and will repeat again and again if this standard persists which we are certain it will. Highly recommended.

Very different atmospheres in these two restaurants in the Star Castle. The 500+ yrs history of the hotel, the light and airy ambience of the conservatory dinning with its huge living grape vine that covers the inside roof.

As always the cafe was extremely busy, the staff worked extremely hard but even though over stretched as so busy they made it an enjoyable experience. The food was excellent as always , we crab quiche with salad which was to a high standard and...

We visited for our anniversary. The food was delicious and it is a great place for a special meal. The only thing we found trying was that we had to book on the morning we went as they would not take advance bookings. On an...

Great for that special occasion, food and wine excellent but not cheap.The restaurant has a good atmosphere and the dungeon bar is a good talking point

The food was exceptional. Busy restaurant but very well organised, plenty of kind staff , excellent customer service , felt very safe in these unprecedented times, Covid aware & secure, but not over the top. Excellent varied menu. Relaxed , friendly atmosphere. Would highly recommend...

This is expensive eating: £45 each and no a la carte. The menu is imaginative but a tad confusing. Among the starters was Rack of Lamb which I see as main course. We enjoyed the (different) starter but be aware that the food in this...

Having stayed at several hotels and B & B’s on St Mary’s, Isles of Scilly, the Star Castle Hotel wins ‘hands down’. The hotel has very special memories for me, having first visited the isles and this historic site nearly 40 years ago. One special...

Staying at the Star Castle and ate breakfast in the conservatory. The menu was lengthy with all dishes being cooked to order. The staff were excellent and attentive. Coffee is a really good roast.

Our first day on St Mary’s - staying at the Star Castle - dinner booked at Conservatory restaurant - fabulous! Warm welcome from all the staff in this detached conservatory with Black Hamburg vine overhead - wide menu and wine list Recommend the Cornish sparkling...

Can’t really give enough superlatives for the food here. It is just such a pleasure to dine here. The service is top drawer, as is the cuisine. The staff couldn’t be friendlier and make you feel very welcome. Can’t wait for the next occasion.

sat in the beautiful garden enjoying the afternoon tea , very friendly staff and wonderful scones. what more can you ask?

Friendly staff, delicious food, especially the venison. Conservatory slightly lacks atmosphere and we did feel a little hurried, as in plates whipped away as soon as knife and fork put down, would have preferred a little breathing space in between each course. The food was...

Having visited The Isles of Scilly last year and having tried and failed to get a meal at The Star last year, we were well prepared this year and booked a table in the conservatory a week before we arrived! On the day we were called to ask if we could change the time. Apparently some residents were wanting our slot. We did not want to change as we had hoped to see some of the gig racing. On arrival we had a drink in the dungeon bar and throughly the banter with the barman.... great start! Sadly the meal and service were not at all what we had expected. As the conservatory was over booked, the poor staff could not cope. They had no leadership or management to help them. The starters arrived on time and were delicious( Scallops) but it went down hill rapidly. The main meals arrived cold and no one checked on us. No one helped to top our wine glasses up and we had to ask for more water. At an establishment of this calibre, we felt that the residents wishes came first.We did mention this on paying the bill, and were offered a discount. However, we declined this as we felt the message was more important.A shame as it was the only downside of our Scilly stay.

We stayed two weeks ago at the star Castle Hotel, it was a lovely stay, and the food it both restaurants where 5 star, would recommend this hotel to anyone, a great stay.

Stayed for the first time at the Star Castle and glad we did. Easily the best place to stay on the Isles of Scilly. All the staff are as helpful as can be from the moment of arrival to the time of departure and considering how difficult it can sometimes be to get on and off the islands due to the weather that help is much appreciated.The food in the castle restaurant was excellent as was the friendly service. A drink in the dungeon bar was a great thanks to the thoroughly helpful and entertaining barman We had one of the outside rooms which was spacious, clean and had great views towards the other islands.One thing, if you fancy a boat trip to the other islands be sure to ask for Tim on Calypso II. The trip he gave us to St Agnes and Tresco was a sheer pleasure and worth the trip to the Scillies alone.

Booked into the Star Castle Conservatory on our last night in the Scilly islands. We were not disappointed, food, wine and service were first class. The vine which inhabits the building had clearly had a good year, grapes adding charm to the setting. The only slight let-down is the sea isn’t visible - too much to ask??

Great hotel steeped in history in a wonderful location. We had coffee in the dungeon bar. Very atmospheric, great service, friendly staff and lovely coffee and biscuits. Looking forward to visiting again.

We booked dinner to celebrate our wedding aniiversary while on holiday. They had no problem coping with our gluten free diet. We both had the crab starter which was flavoursome and garnished pickled vegetables and a spicy tomato sauce. The tomato soup was thick and well flavoured and the shot glass of sorbet was refreshing and set off by the tart frozen raspberry on top.

Old military building turned into a Hotel. Fun area for kids to explor as some old buildings open to the public. We has the best afternoon tea. There is a ghostly tale around the Garrison. This gave the area a

So are here on a number of occasions whilst staying in the hotel. The setting is nice, but beware that when hot outside it’s very hot inside, the fans mounted on the ceiling are next to useless, there is little draft through the windows and we perspired freely simply sitting at the table, it must be a nightmare for the staff. Onto the service, the staff are great, efficient, friendly and proffesional, not sure about the chef though, we sent our main courses back on one night as the mash was cold only to have them sent back 5 minutes later on red hot plates that we were warned not to touch with the mash still cold, how many chefs think it’s appropriate to deal with cold food by heating up the plates? The food itself is good, the menu nicely balanced, but the portions are tiny at times, and not always value for money. Examples are a starter that consisted of 3 small slices of poached pear, 3 or 4 hazel nuts and a small dollop of sauce, and the soup course often consisting of only 5 to 6 spoonfuls. Hotel guests pay £25 per person for the 4 course menu and it’s just about value for this, I believe that non residents are charged in excess of £40 for the same menu which isn’t in my view good value. The wine list is extensive and the wine we had was good but somewhat over priced. Finally be warned, whilst generally hotel guests can choose to eat either here or in the castle dinning room, this choice can be withdrawn at short notice if the hotel is catering for a group which they do in the conservatory cramming everyone else into the smaller castle dinning room. Overall it’s only just better than average which is shame as it has the potential to be so much better.

Wonderful setting under grapes.

A really exceptional hotel, very comfortable, clean, amazing food and staff. We dined in the Coservatory restaurant, again excellent. I feel that Tim the "boatman" needs a mention, he is a very likeable man, always on time, always smiling and happy and friendly, going on his trips is a real pleasure.

The family and I enjoyed a good lunch in the Star Castle dungeon bar.

Lovely restaurant with vines overhead. Vey much a seafood restaurant with pleny of choice. Highly recommended with first class food.

There are 2 Restaurants at the Hotel, The Conservatory and the Castle Dining Room. The first evening we chose The Conservatory as we preferred the Menu. We had 4 courses and each course was delicious and very well presented. The Conservatory we were told had more fish dishes but there were still a variety of other dishes to choose from. It was very cosy as there was heating and above was a very large vine which gave the Conservatory a nice ambiance.The service was very good and all 3 waitresses were very friendly. There is a short walk from the Castle or from the Garden Rooms but well worth it.

The Conservatory Restaurant is modern and airy. It specializes in seafood but usually has a vegetarian option. I had a starter of monkfish wrapped in parma ham followed by lemon sole and asparagus. A blue cheese and walnut salad was the vegetarian dish. The courses were well-presented, cooked beautifully and tasted great. Our dinner was accompanied by a local beer and a Chilean Merlot. The waiting staff were attentive without being intrusive.

A Sunday evening visit to this much praised restaurant. The casual dining option at the hotel proved to be anything but!

We ate in the Dungeon Bar, which is a fantastic experience. The food was excellent and the staff were very friendly and welcoming - we only wished we were staying in the hotel! Next time...

Just had a three day special break at the Star Castle hotel in St. Mary 's, Isles of Scilly. I had been twice before so was not surprised at the high standard of the sea view garden rooms with views towards Samson island. The weather was superb enabling us to make use of our verandahs when not swimming in the delightfully warm pool or not partaking of the world class cuisine in the magic candlelit dining room.. This is a family owned hotel and this is reflected in the care shown to me following the death of my husband. We had spent our last holiday together at the hotel in 2015.

Very relaxed atmosphere, tasty food, good choices. We had our breakfast in the conservatory sometimes as well as our evening meal. Spoilt for choice between here or the Dining room.

We stayed at the Star Castle Hotel and ate in the main dining room and in the Conservatory Restaurant. We preferred the latter.

October probably isn't the best time to appreciate the venue but it was still very nice. Although it was pitch black outside it still felt quite bright inside with the white walls and lots of windows, even though it was rather difficult to read the menu in the low level lighting.

Dry scones, microwaved to try and freshen them up. They agreed they were stale and not cooked on site and to be fair they didn't charge us. But should not have tried to serve us. They had no other alternative to offer. Having run out of biscuits earlier!

Lovely place to eat and relax - the Conservatory is located in a glass roofed building which is bedecked with grapevines, so it creates a Mediterranean ambiance with the grapes hanging down all around just above your head. The atmosphere takes on an even greater evocative feeling as it becomes dark with the lighting picking out the wonderful green canopy under which you eat.

The restaurant is light - as you would expect from a conservatory - and spacious. The team worked very well together and we felt well looked-after throughout. The food was to a very good standard: we ate there three times in less than a week and, as seafood lovers, we were delighted to find both Turbot and John Dory featuring on the menu. More importantly, the food was cooked very well and was complemented by a very good wine list.

We had a lovely breakfast here during our stay and we marvelled at the heavily laden vine above our heads.

Fantastic menu with a focus on seafood albeit plenty of other choices as well. Good service . Well worth a visit with wonderful views across the harbour and out to Bishops Rock

Este restaurante es perfecto, el entorno y el ambiente es muy tranquilo y pacífico. La comida es insuperable. Tuve 4 campos y cada plato era delicioso. No puedo quejarme en absoluto. Lo recomiendo encarecidamente.

Just returned from a meal at Star Castle & all I can say is WOW! The food, wine & service was top class. This is the second time we've had an evening meal here and it certainly won't be the last. We also had lunch here after walking around The Garrison, that was also excellent. Thank you so much, we will be back.......

Dining in the garden conservatory highly recommended on a summers evening,varied menu and beautifully presentedLovely staff nothing too much trouble

Set in the grounds of The Star Castle Hotel lies the Conservatory Restaurant which is relaxed & serves mainly fish. It's a completely different atmosphere to the more formal dining room, in the main part of the historic building, but is no less impressive. Grape vines trail over the roof structure & the conservatory has a distinct summery quality. The food is unashamedly high end & possibly the poshest on the island of St Mary's. But it doesn't quite deliver. Not quite - but nearly. The service is faultless & the food very attractively presented it's just lacking that extra special fuller flavour.

We booked at short notice so we were pleased to get a reservation for dinner as we were non residents.We were dining in the conservatory, just a bit hot on a glorious summers day. The setting is beautiful - you do feel as if you are somewhere hot abroad miles & miles away.The waiter initially was a bit taken back when we said we were non residents almost dismissed us, & gave us the worst 2 seats in the conservatory with the blazing sun hitting on us for the next hour. There were other spare tables . I am pleased to say that it all improved thereon. The rest of the waiters were great, service was excellent . The meal was just fantastic - best we have had on the island, maybe a bit pricey but worth it. I had scallops followed by hake & my husband had duck for mains. The presentation was great and tasted just as good.This is a great place to come for that special meal - you won't be disappointed.Only reason I rated 4 out of 5 was due to our first impressions but glad it worked out for us. We'll be back next time we return to Scilly.

We were being treated to this meal by one of my partners children and all I can say is I'm glad I wasn't paying for it.The setting is very pleasant being in a very large conservatory with an equally large grape vine growing all along the roof.The staff were friendly, courteous and efficient.The meal itself was not memorable, in fact I can't remember what I had and it was only 3 weeks ago. What I do remember vividly is that he portions were minute.We had heard great things about this restaurant and so were looking forward to a great meal - however, we were really disappointed.

We passed while on the coastal walk and just popped in for lunch. Loads of interesting rooms inside and staff were very helpful

We ate in the Conservatory with a group of friends.The location is lovely and the food was good. The service left rather a lot to be desired. Mostly willing but lacked finesse.

Excellent choice of dishes, local ingredients in a charming setting. Very handy to check out the sunset over Samson.

Lovely for breakfast and dinner too. We enjoyed the atmosphere but the staff made it really great with wonderful service

The Conservatory restaurant and its sister in the Star Castle Hotel have very good reputations, so what was meant to be the food highlight of our visit to the Scilly Isles was a mahor (and expensive) let-down. To start with the positives, the Conservatory is a very nice room and the waiting staff very pleasant. Things did not get off to a good start. We asked about a house cocktail, but they don't have one. We then asked for an Aperol spritz, but the Maitre d'Hotel hadn't heard of this. We settle for a Kir Royal which came at a hefty £12 a glass and we didn't ask the price before ordering.We both chose the 4 course £45 tasting menu, which was entirely unmemorable. I was reminded of the Woody Allen gag about the food being poor and the portions were so small. My tiny portion of hake had the word "chard" in the menu description, but it wasn't the in-vogue vegetable but "charred", or rather with burnt skin.Feeling hungry, and having lost confidence in the cooking, we both chose the cheese board. Prseumably under instructions to be stingy, our charming waitress cut us tiny slivers of each cheese. The biscuits even included Jacobs Cream Crackers. Not what you expect when the meal with wine has just set you back £150!

Came up to have dinner with friends who were staying at the hotel. Lovely food, great atmosphere and really nice staff. Portions are "polite" (in other words on the small side) and this is not a "bargain" restaurant if you get my meaning, particularly the wine list! Go with all that in mind and you will have a pleasant experience.

Having been fortunate enough to travel throughout my life I have ate in numerous countries. In five star restaurants to dinners and dives!!. The wonder of Scilly does begin at the Star Castle Hotel and the food which is outstanding in value, taste and service. I ate first class, mouth watering and unforgettable food. The Chefs understanding of food made a unique experience in that every meal I ate was excellent. The staff over all where very professional making you feel you where extra special. What a wonderful, wonderful experience. One of the best destinations in all my travels. Thank you so much. I will be back!!! with my family next time.

I came here for the £45 four-course dinner, hoping to have some fresh seafood which the conservatory claims is their speciality. The good points is that the staff were very nice, although overly formal, and the venue is pretty among the garden, although you can't see the sea from the windows as it is tucked in. However, the meal was very disappointing, even without the price tag. For the starter I ordered the dressed crab, which was fine, if small. Next I had soup that was very tasteless, although also fine. So far, it was average, but well below my expectations. The main was the biggest letdown. I had the cod, which is displayed on their website - implying they take pride in that dish - but it was ridiculously salty. The fish itself was not at all tender, and over-salted, and add that capers and some crispy garnish, the only thing you could taste was the saltiness. It was also not very big, with only a few chunks of cod. I have heard the dessert can be quite filling, although the options didn't inspire me, especially with the lackluster four courses before, so I decided not to order any. The presentation of the food was very nice but clearly was trying to hide a poor execution of flavour, so even though the service was friendly I would NOT recommend dining here, as there are many other restaurants on the islands which could provide you with a much tastier meal for a much better price. The main disappointment was that I had come especially for fresh seafood and quality food, and did not receive either unfortunately, and instead had to pay £45 for a meal well below my expectations and unfortunately the worst meal I ended up having in my stay on Scilly. Only thing keeping this from a one-star rating was the friendly service, as the waitresses are nice and will chat with you.

Enjoyed breakfast and evening meals here. The food was amazing, also the service outstanding. Also a great place to see the sunset.

We celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary last night in the Star Castle dining room.What an excellent meal! 4 courses beautifully and artistically plated to tempt the palate.It was superb. We would highly recommend this venue to everyone visiting St Mary's

Having been to St Mary's before I knew that being sat outside Star Castle in the evening allows you to see amazing sunsets, so I had decided that I was going to take my girlfriend here for dinner before popping the question. We had a table in the Conservatory which we found just about after going in the entrance of the castle to get directions. It is as it sounds, a big conservatory, but beautiful inside as you sit under the vines growing around you. We had the 4 course menu and it was simply stunning food, complete with beautiful wine. This was definitely a treat for us although at about £45 each it wasn't necessarily bad value for money either considering the quality. The scallops were gorgeous, as was the lamb I had. A refreshing sorbet pallet cleanser following starter was a delight. As it happened we didn't make it out in time to catch the sunset, and the weather had turned (quite badly!) but still, everything went to plan and has made these isles even more special to us

We recently got married in St Mary's and as there were only 4 of us we didn't book anywhere to have a meal on the evening of our wedding. We looked at several options on the island and decided on the Star Castle dining room, and are so pleased we did.We had the 4 course option for dinner and all our food was cooked to perfection and the service from the young but extremely able and knowledgeable staff made the whole experience fantastic from start to finish. The owner Robert who we met at the vineyard in the afternoon also left us a complimentary bottle of champagne as a wedding gift, such a nice touch. We cannot wait to return.

Good food, service and facilities in this comfortable hotel in High Town.Breakfast was good, as was our evening meal in the airy and bright conservatory restaurant.Seems very expensive for what is on offer though so offers poor value for money

We had a wonderful week at the Star Castle. The garden room was delightful, the service was first class and the food was just brilliant. There are 2 restaurants with the Conservatory being mainly fish based, its a wonderful light room dining under the vine. Transport is provided to and from the airport and there is a bespoke daily boat service (ask for Tim) to the other islands. Hopefully we will return one day.

The food was great, the staff were lovely & very helpful. Made us feel special & nothing was to much trouble. Would like to stay there if we go back to st Mary's.

We ate in the Dining Room, The menu here is changed daily and is excellent. (Note. The Conservatory Restaurant is also good and has more fish on the menu). The wine list is extensive although it contained no Merlot but when the owners locally produced Pinot Noir is available why would you ask for anything else. The food is superb and the staff provide a fine service. Highly recommended

Decided to have lunch immediately on arriving in the Scilly Isles and before going for a walk round the Garrison. Initially went down to the Dungeon Bar but barman suggested eating on the battlements. Had simple Burger and Chips but it was cooked to perfection, beer was also very acceptable. Surprising very tame young thrush and sparrows, but at least no Gulls.

It's stating the obvious, but this is an old castle. As such, it has castle type features, such as very thick walls, sloping floors and small rooms. We loved it! The owners have cleverly combined and used the castle features without making the mistake of falling into kitsch. The approach through the main gate and along what feels like a moat is so very different. The Dungeon Bar is delightful, the food in the restaurant was excellent, the service was slick, with a sense of humour, and the bedroom very comfortable.Outside, their are newer rooms, which are no doubt well appointed and spacious. The small, heated, swimming pool was a joy after a day walking around the island (esp to anyone who has tied swimming in the sea off Scilly!) and also a nice refresher before breakfast.

The conservatory restaurant at the Star Castle has some amazing fish and seafood choices in a lovely setting with grape vines weaving overhead and views of the night sky.

Excellent service, excellent food mainly fish based. A true delight on a daily basis! Menus varied daily and food was beautifully presented. Booking recommended!

We had a lovely lunch in the old dungeon bar at the castle. Superb food and excellent service. An amazing place to eat.

We do not understand why this restaurant has only a mid position with trip advisor. Maybe those who use it want to keep it to themselves because it is superb. The castle is an amazing 16th century place with quirky rooms bar and barman -Chuckles-but the food is very good my Lamb and Trish's John Dory were excellent as was both the house red and white wine. So do give it a try if you enjoy fine dining you won't regret it. D&T

My last night visiting the Scilly Isles was spent at short notice here and the reception lady Angie was extremely good and had been there for years. Efficient and polite and the place was different in that the reception, main dining and dungeon bar plus just a few rooms were based in the old castle with all its history etc but most of the rooms are very modern and outside on a main garden courtyard strip. I must say I was disappointed that it felt a little like I was staying in a butlins when I first saw the row of little chalet like rooms....however first impressions can be wrong...and the room was extremely comfortable, very large, sitting area back door to a lovely sunny garden and well appointed. The main dining room had a lot of atmosphere but doesn't seat that many so needs to be booked in advance. However there was a lovely conservatory restaurant near the chalet rooms with a fabulous grapevine growing inside which served mainly fish dishes and I had a great lobster. Staff were very good all around the place and welcoming.. They do call your room to check if you going to eat when it gets near to the end of dining for either dinner or breakfast to make sure you are actually wanting to eat as they close dead on time! I would definitely stay again when on st Mary's .great location too.

We ate here last night and it was lovely. The atmosphere, the staff and the food was wonderful. It specialises in fish so we had scallops followed by turbot both were perfectly cooked with delicious a compliments. They catered for gluten free with no problems.

Excellent food served by an extremely friendly and helpful bar person Martin. Thoroughly recommend a visit for sandwich lunch even if staying there is out of your budget.

This isn't an inexpensive restaurant but if you are on St. Mary's and want to dine somewhere a little special I would recommend the Star Castle. With 2 set menu's on offer, we chose to dine in the dining room rather than the conservatory and although the décor seemed a little dated, it had a classic feel and lovely atmosphere. We had 4 courses, all of which were good sizes that didn't leave us feeling hungry or like we had overeaten. I had the local fish which was delicious. The place is full of history and I would definitely recommend arriving early for a drink in the Dungeon Bar before dinner. I didn't stay in The Castle, so cannot comment, although from the ghost stories I've been told about the place, I'm quite glad I didn't.

My husband and I have just returned from another stay on St Mary's, the Isles of Scilly, and whilst there we had an evening meal in the Conservatory at the Star Castle; we were absolutely blown away by the meal. The portions were perfect and the flavours intense. We both sampled the locally caught fish for mains and the superb presentation was just the beginning; the taste certainly lived up to expectation. We hope to be able to return quite soon and will certainly visit the restaurant again.

Du haut de la colline surplombant St Mary, vue magnifique, bonne cuisine. Nous avons séjourné 2 nuits dans cet hôtel et sur lîle, un très bon souvenir. St Mary est la plus grande des îles Scilly, et la moins exotique, des voitures et une atmosphère plus "normale", un accueil un peu moins chaleureux que dans les autres îles, mais rien de repoussant.

Whilst staying in St Mary's we attended a musical afternoon at the Star Castle. Actually getting there up the hill the steep path and finally the steps was an experience I wouldn't want to do every day. We found the bar in the Dungeon which had customers but nobody serving because the girl disappeared so after 10 mins we gave up. Only to be told later that they stop serving at 2pm ! But nobody told the customers that were waiting we were just abandoned ! The whole hotel looks tired cold and uncomfortable to me and the staff seemed very user unfriendly. I'm so pleased we hadn't booked to stay there. There were wooden hotel rooms in the garden which looked like a 60s holiday camp. Lovely views but certainly not for me thank you.

This castle was once the most secure prison in Britain built in 1593 and overlooking Hugh Town. This strangely shaped hotel is because its layout was in the form of an eight-pointed star. Now it is supremely comfortable hotel boasting lovely maritime-themed rooms with lots of original features and wooden- beamed ceilings, two poster beds and uninterrupted views across the sea and 7,000 vine vineyard. The former dungeon is now a relaxed bar. The castle restaurant sits nestled between stone walls and a roaring fireplace. The seafood served was outstanding.

I was fortunate enough to be invited on a sailing trip from Truro to St Mary's in the Scilly Isles. On arrival we dropped anchor and toured St Mary's and the surrounding islands, including treating ourselves to a meal in the Star Castle restaurant, which was excellent

During my stay at star castle, I dined at their restaurant every night. The first night I went to the conservatory, which is seafood based, I like seafood but the menu didn't look too appealing for me when I first sat down. The food came out and was lovely. The next night I tried the castle dining room, that was then my home for the rest of my stay. The menu was incredible every night, 4 courses each night, and it did not disappoint once. I'd give this 10 stars if I could, 5 is not enough.

we had a beautiful meal for two. The menu was good, the food was excellent and the wine list was very very good for a Hotel of this standing - excellent wines at a reasonable price.

We had lunch at the bar and also dinner in the restaurant. Both meals were lovely, there was a cosy atmosphere and the service was excellent. The whole experience was great. We also had our dog with us for lunch in the bar which was very welcome as St Mary's isn't as dog friendly as we thought it might be!

We ate in the Conservatory restaurant, and found the setting - nestled under grape vines hanging from the ceiling - really special (the main restaurant seemed a little darker in comparison). The food was lovely: plenty of choice (with a focus on fish), and a touch more class than the other menus we encountered on St Mary's. We both chose from the set menu and had plenty of choice - and all courses were delicious. The staff were very attentive and professional but also friendly and personable in conversation. A real pleasure to eat here.

British Food at its finest. Every morsel was devoured by all of us. We ate in the Conservatory and its speciality is mainly seafood. Scallops were cooked to perfection as was the monkfish. Although I wouldn't classify this as a family restaurant (there is no menu for children and hence can make it expensive) the kids ate absolutely everything so I couldn't complain in the slightest. They even came back in from playing for their tea and petit fours! We had one of the most memorable meals here and still talk about it now. Thank you!

Went to the Star Castle Fish restaurant as the special night of our week's holiday in the Scillies. The Castle a lovely venue, especially the bar, but the fish restaurant albeit a pleasant environment, is nothing special. The menu disappointing with choices, clearly the lobster is the best thing on the menu from what we saw but unfortunately we hadn't pre ordered. I had dover sole which I expected to be whole but was two small fillets though beautifully presented, as a fish restaurant it was not as special as expected. There needs to be better lighting along the path between the main castle and the fish restaurant, as difficult in the dark and rain to navigate. I would try the main restaurant in the castle if we return.

We sailed to Scilly, so we look to eat ashore in the evenings. This was the perfect place, with a grand dining room in the old castle setting, beautiful place settings with starched linen tablecloth, attentive staff and delicious food. The table d'hôte menu was very interesting and every dish was beautifully prepared and served.They had run out of the two wines we chose, but that's life on Scilly, and we were able to select a very interesting alternative, which was no bad thing! Plaice served on creamed savoy cabbage with chorizo salsa as a starter was a real winner!The only down side was that they don't leave the water jug on the table so we had to keep on asking for refills - they don't realise what thirsty work sailing can be!

We ate in the conservatory restaurant This is the best restaurant on Scilly. Both food and service were great. It's not a cheap meal but didn't seem bad value given the quality. Highly recommend.