Autumn 2021 – Isles of Scilly Travel

View from St Martins looking out to Tresco in Autumn

Autumn on the Isles of Scilly

A Quieter And Wilder Time

The landscape starts changing to golds, reds and yellows, fallen leaves crunch underfoot and the smell of fresh, crisp air tells you autumn has arrived on the Isles of Scilly. The islands can offer an Indian summer for days spent enjoying the great outdoors. At this time of year, you’ll find something for foodies, walkers, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone seeking a little peace.

With few roads and fewer cars, the islands are a walker’s paradise. There’s nothing better than pulling on a pair of walking boots and exploring each islands’ vast number of tracks and trails for the changing landscape, abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery.

After a long day exploring spend evenings collapsed in front of the fire at one of the hearty local pubs and try some local Scillonian delicacies, before heading outside with a blanket. With dark sky status, the Isles of Scilly is one of the best places in the UK to stargaze and see the Milky Way in all its splendour.

Build a love affair with the islands this autumn and discover each island’s own unique charm you will soon discover your favourite.

Top 5 reasons to visit Scilly in autumn

We think autumn is a beautiful time of year to visit Scilly. The islands are ablaze with warm hues and the wildlife is thriving with activity. Here’s our top 5 ideas to add to your Scilly bucket list.

Isles of Scilly - Atlantic Grey Seal Pup

Wildlife

The seal pups

Atlantic grey seals thrive around Scilly and are a firm favourite with visitors. They can easily be spotted swimming or basking in the sun, but globally they are one of the rarest seal species; in the UK you’ll find more red squirrels! In the autumn it’s breeding season; take a boat trip to the uninhabited Eastern Isles to see their natural habitats and their fluffy white pups, or (in early autumn) you can still swim with seals on a guided trip around the Eastern Isles from St. Martin’s.

Stargazing

The dark skies

The Isles of Scilly are one of the best places in the UK for stargazing, with no light pollution Scilly enjoys pristine dark skies. As the autumn nights draw in, on a clear night there’s no better season to be captivated by the sheer number of stars that can be seen. For many visitors seeing the Milky Way arc across the sky is an unforgettable experience.

Tranquil Autumnsea view, St Mary's, Isles of Scilly

Health & wellbeing

The peace & quiet

Autumn is often a time to reflect on the year passed and ease yourself into winter. If you’re not one for lavish spa’s the Isles of Scilly offers an alternative take on a wellbeing break for you to refocus and rejuvenate. Explore the deserted islands and hidden coves, whilst relaxing with someone you love and adjust to the gentler pace of island life.

On The Quay - Scilly Restaurant - St Mary's

Food & drink

The seasonal produce

Fresh local produce is in abundant on Scilly. There are many farm stalls dotted about all five main islands offering wonderful local seasonal produce and with a diverse range of pubs, restaurants, and cafés serving Scillonian delicacies you’ll never go hungry. Scilly is also a great place to have a go at foraging both inland and by the sea, we’d recommend reading one of foraging expert Rachel Lambert’s great books to help you get started.

Autumn wave watching - St Mary's, Scilly

Weather watching

The Atlantic storms

Late autumn often brings ferocious and exciting Atlantic storms, so wrap up warm get outside and embrace some storm watching. Our favourite spot to watch the Atlantic rollers crash in, is on Shipman’s Head on Bryher.