Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in ST MARY’S. St. Mary’s Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 20 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave ISC:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United Kingdom. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to ST MARY’S takes about 20 minutes by Taxi/Walk. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is GBP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Exploring ST MARY’S on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in ST MARY’S:
Start with Hugh Town & Harbour Exploration. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in ST MARY’S. Then, if time allows, make your way to Garrison Walls & Star Castle. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ISC, check out St Mary’s Airport Cafe & Shop or Runway & Island Views to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a ST MARY’S Layover
For food in ST MARY’S, local travelers recommend The Mermaid Inn. If you have time for a second stop, Star Castle Hotel Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at ISC, St Mary’s Airport Cafe is the go-to. Airport Grab & Go Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Transport from St. Mary’s Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into ST MARY’S is the Taxi/Walk, which takes about 20 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 40 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Walk is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your ST MARY’S Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in ST MARY’S, budget roughly $49 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $26 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at ISC aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in ST MARY’S itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ISC, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in ST MARY’S itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for United Kingdom that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ISC has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in ST MARY’S exploring the streets or relaxing at ISC, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.