Isles of Scilly National Landscape – Atlantic Islands, Granite Headlands, and Open Seas

A Maritime Island Landscape Shaped by Ocean, Geology, and Settlement

The Isles of Scilly National Landscape lies around 28 miles off the coast of Cornwall in the Atlantic Ocean, South West England, forming an archipelago of low-lying islands, rocky islets, and tidal skerries. This protected landscape is defined by its exposure to the sea, mild climate, and strong sense of isolation, with land and water closely interwoven across every island.

Exploring the Isles of Scilly on foot is shaped by scale and proximity to the ocean. Walking journeys are short but varied, following coastal paths, grassy tracks, and sandy causeways where beaches, headlands, and settlements sit only minutes apart. The experience is immersive rather than expansive, with constant sea views, changing light, and a strong awareness of weather and tides.

Granite geology underpins the islands. Rounded headlands, rocky tors, and low cliffs give the landscape its distinctive form, while thin soils and salt-laden air limit tree growth and favour open heath, grassland, and maritime plants. Many walking adventures pass prehistoric cairns, entrance graves, and field systems that reflect thousands of years of human adaptation to island life.

Settlement on the islands is tightly bound to the land. Small farms, flower fields, and compact communities sit close to paths and shorelines, making self-guided exploration straightforward and rewarding. The absence of large roads and short distances between places encourage slow movement and repeated encounters with the sea.

Each inhabited island offers a distinct walking character. St Mary’s provides the widest range of routes and longer coastal circuits, while Tresco, St Martin’s, Bryher, and St Agnes offer quieter journeys shaped by beaches, low hills, and open horizons. Inter-island boat links allow walkers to combine routes across multiple islands in a single visit.

Beyond walking journeys, the Isles of Scilly support low-impact outdoor experiences closely tied to the marine environment. Swimming, kayaking, and wildlife watching are popular, with regular sightings of seals, seabirds, and migratory species. Dark skies and minimal light pollution add to the islands’ sense of remoteness.

Accommodation across the National Landscape includes small hotels, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, and island inns, often set close to the coast or directly on walking routes. With limited vehicle access and compact settlements, most exploration is done on foot, reinforcing the islands’ slow, intimate rhythm.

For those seeking coastal walking, island landscapes, and a deep connection between land and sea, the Isles of Scilly National Landscape offers one of England’s most distinctive and immersive self-guided walking environments.

Where to Walk and Explore

Island Coastal Paths

‍Short coastal routes with constant sea views and changing light.

Granite Headlands & Tors

‍Walking across rounded hills and rocky outcrops shaped by Atlantic exposure.

Beaches & Tidal Causeways

Routes linking islands, headlands, and sands at low tide.

Prehistoric Island Landscapes

‍Paths passing cairns, entrance graves, and ancient field systems.

Village-Based Island Routes

‍Gentle circuits connecting settlements, farms, and shorelines.

Adventure Highlights

• Atlantic island walking with constant sea views
• Distinct granite landscapes across multiple islands
• Prehistoric remains embedded in open ground
• Strong sense of remoteness and light
• Easy, car-free exploration on foot
• Ideal for slow, coastal walking journeys