Autumn on Scilly is a magical affair. Empty beaches and stunning coastlines to escape to, lingering late sunshine and a light across the islands that’s simply spellbinding, coupled with the most amazing array of wildlife to explore around our shores, foody fests, walking weekends and much, much more.
1. Escape the modern world and free your mind
Come and explore the swathes of empty white sand beaches, deserted paths, rocky outcrops, crystal clear waters, and many islands in one amazing (and tiny) archipelago - every inch of which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Like nowhere else in England.
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2. Indian summers and seething storms:
Early autumn on the islands usually delivers a warm Indian summer, late autumn often brings ferocious and exciting Atlantic storms. So get outside and embrace it all!
3. See the seals:
The Isles of Scilly is a true life seal sanctuary – home to the UK’s largest population of Atlantic grey seals. They are everywhere, and the added perk in autumn is that it’s breeding season! Take a boat trip in their natural habitats to see the seals and their fluffy white pups, or (in early autumn) you can still swim with seals on a guided trip around the Eastern Isles.
4. Meteor showers and the Milky Way:
The Isles of Scilly are one of the best places in the UK to look up into unpolluted darkness and marvel at the Milky Way, planets and stars in all their splendour, including a fantastic meteor shower expected in early October. As the nights draw in, there's no better season to be captivated by our cosmic skies.
5. Wellness breaks and yoga retreats:
Retreat to Bryher's Hell Bay or Tresco Island for a nature or wellbeing weekend, or revitalise and re-boot on a special Wellbeing break at Mincarlo on St. Mary's this September and October. Yoga, sea-swimming, meditation, nature walks - there a variety of combinations to suit every mood and ability, so give yourself a special post summer treat!
6. Marvel at the migrating birds:
Take a boating safari to our thriving sea bird sanctuaries around the island of Annet or to the Eastern Isles. Scilly becomes a mecca for resident and migrant bird populations in the autumn, and you’ll be able to admire colonies of Storm petrels, Manx Shearwaters, cormorants, shags and razorbills among many other others species.
7. Bring your four-legged friend:
From October restrictions are lifted on many beaches, allowing your favoured pet to roam freely. The weather is slightly cooler, too, so what better way to spend quality time than exploring the inhabited islands of Scilly together?
8. Walk this way!
October sees the return of our walking festival - Wild Scilly event (sister to Walk Scilly in April). This month-long event of guided walks by knowledgeable locals story-telling their way around the islands through wildlife, foraging and food, boat safaris, arts & crafts, dark skies, maritime history and more, is nothing short of inspiring and a good way to get to know the real Scilly and learn about island life.
There are some great deals to be had in the autumn so plan your trip and take a look at our special offers!
© Islands' Partnership
