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Isles of Scilly

United Kingdom · Island · GBP · 49.927700, -6.308800
Family friendly 4.6/10 · Rank 2366 of 2 709
Best season: May-September (warm weather)

Best for

For nature lovers, beaches and peaceful holidays.

Best season

May-September (warm weather)

Daily budget
$253.00 (≈ 21 232 ₽ · ≈ 200 GBP)
For 7 days
$1 771.00 (≈ 148 622 ₽ · ≈ 1 399 GBP)
The Isles of Scilly are an archipelago off the southwest coast of Cornwall, known for their subtropical gardens and white-sand beaches. It is one of the warmest and sunniest spots in the UK. The islands are perfect for a relaxing holiday and wildlife watching.
Summer
20.0°C
Winter
6.0°C
Sea
17.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, proud of their nature.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful beaches
  • Unique gardens
  • Peaceful atmosphere
  • Fewer tourists

Cons

  • Cool weather
  • High cost
  • Remoteness
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
16.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
20.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
20.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
8.5°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
11.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
6.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
16.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
17.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
year-round
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
white sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Pentle Bay on Tresco
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
No
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
No
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Main danger is tidal currents. No lifeguards on beaches.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in the coastal waters of the Isles of Scilly are represented by common species inhabiting rocky bottoms and kelp beds. They do not pose a serious danger, but special swimming shoes are recommended
  • Sea urchins are found in Isles of Scilly waters, including the sea potato (Echinocardium cordatum), which inhabits sandy bottoms

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are absent around the Isles of Scilly — the region belongs to the temperate waters of the Celtic Sea. Marine ecosystems are represented by rocky reefs, algae and temperate fish species
  • Soft corals, sponges, anemones and other organisms inhabit the rocky reefs of the Isles of Scilly. The archipelago is an important area for sharks and rays

Jellyfish — details

  • Fire jellyfish and Portuguese man-of-war occur in waters around the islands

Sharks — details

  • Various shark species inhabit the waters of the Isles of Scilly, including the basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus), often seen during summer months and feeding on plankton
  • The Isles of Scilly archipelago is an important reproductive and resting area for the small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula). Tope sharks (Galeorhinus galeus) and blue sharks (Prionace glauca) are also found. Sharks do not pose a serious danger to swimmers
Attractions

Tresco Abbey Garden

Famous subtropical gardens with 20,000 plants from around the world.

Pentle Bay

White sandy beach on Tresco with turquoise water.

Star Castle

Star-shaped fortress on St Mary's, built in 1593.

Garrison Walls

Walk along the fortress walls with sea views.

Valhalla Museum

Collection of ships' figureheads from shipwrecks.

Seal Snorkeling at St Martin's

Snorkeling with Atlantic grey seals in their natural habitat.

Best areas

Hugh Town

Main town on St Mary's with shops and restaurants.

Tresco

Island with subtropical gardens and beaches.

St Martin's

Island with vineyards and beaches.

Must-try food

Lobster

Fresh lobster from the islands, often with garlic and butter.

Crab

Fresh crab from the islands, served with bread and salad.

Sea Bass

Fresh grilled sea bass.

Razor Clams

Delicacy, served with garlic and butter.

Troytown Ice Cream

Famous local ice cream from St Agnes.

Where to go next

Cornwall

County on the mainland with beaches and attractions.

Penzance

Mainland town with ferry connections.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Сент-Мэрис Аэропорт (ISC).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (UK visa/ETA)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-September (warm weather)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 32 GBP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽ · ≈ 158 GBP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$250.00
≈ 20 980 ₽ · ≈ 198 GBP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$300.00
≈ 25 176 ₽ · ≈ 237 GBP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽ · ≈ 158 GBP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 119 GBP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 24 GBP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 3 GBP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 4 GBP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 2 GBP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$14.00
≈ 1 175 ₽ · ≈ 11 GBP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 9 GBP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 6 GBP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 8 GBP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 20 GBP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 2 GBP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 8 GBP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 28 GBP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 20 GBP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 40 GBP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 63 GBP
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Isles of Scilly Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 47 GBP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 12 GBP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 16 GBP
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Frequently asked questions
Isles of Scilly: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-September (warm weather). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Isles of Scilly: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +20.0°C, during the day — up to +20.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Isles of Scilly: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +6.0°C, during the day — up to +11.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Isles of Scilly: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +17.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Isles of Scilly: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on year-round. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Isles of Scilly: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "white sand" surface, white sand, crystal clear water. The most popular beaches: Pentle Bay on Tresco. The beaches have cafes and bars.
Isles of Scilly: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Isles of Scilly: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Main danger is tidal currents. No lifeguards on beaches.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Isles of Scilly: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $253.00 (≈ 21 232 ₽ · ≈ 200 GBP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Isles of Scilly: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $40.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $200.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $250.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $300.00 per night, an apartment — $150.00 per night, a villa — $200.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Isles of Scilly: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $15.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.00, a 0.5L beer — $5.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $2.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Isles of Scilly: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $3.00, a short taxi ride — $10.00, car rental — $35.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Isles of Scilly: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Tresco Abbey Garden — Famous subtropical gardens with 20,000 plants from around the world.; Pentle Bay — White sandy beach on Tresco with turquoise water.; Star Castle — Star-shaped fortress on St Mary's, built in 1593.; Garrison Walls — Walk along the fortress walls with sea views.; Valhalla Museum — Collection of ships' figureheads from shipwrecks.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Isles of Scilly: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Lobster — Fresh lobster from the islands, often with garlic and butter.; Crab — Fresh crab from the islands, served with bread and salad.; Sea Bass — Fresh grilled sea bass.; Razor Clams — Delicacy, served with garlic and butter.; Troytown Ice Cream — Famous local ice cream from St Agnes.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Isles of Scilly: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Hugh Town — Main town on St Mary's with shops and restaurants.; Tresco — Island with subtropical gardens and beaches.; St Martin's — Island with vineyards and beaches.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Isles of Scilly: is a visa required?
Visa: required (UK visa/ETA). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Isles of Scilly: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Сент-Мэрис Аэропорт (code ISC). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Isles of Scilly: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — GBP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $253.00 (≈ 21 232 ₽ · ≈ 200 GBP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Isles of Scilly: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Isles of Scilly: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Isles of Scilly: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Cornwall — County on the mainland with beaches and attractions.; Penzance — Mainland town with ferry connections.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

4.6/10
Overall rank: 2366 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 1346

Best season

May-September (warm weather)

Useful information

Currency: GBP
Coordinates: 49.927700, -6.308800