Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly is a unitary authority area and archipelago located 28 miles southwest of Cornwall, comprising five inhabited islands (St Mary's, Tresco, St Martin's, St Agnes, and Bryher) and numerous smaller uninhabited islands. This unique island community features some of the mildest climates in the UK, spectacular coastal scenery, and a distinctive way of life shaped by its isolation and maritime environment. The climate is exceptionally mild for the UK, with Scilly enjoying more sunshine hours than almost anywhere else, very rare frost, and almost subtropical conditions that allow plants to flourish that would not survive on the mainland, including the famous Tresco Abbey Gardens. Culturally, the Isles of Scilly maintain a unique identity distinct from Cornwall, with their own traditions, dialect, and community life shaped by centuries of farming, fishing, and pilotage. The area preserves exceptional heritage including the many prehistoric sites (burial chambers, entrance graves, and field systems dating back 4,000 years), the iconic Tresco Abbey Gardens (created by Augustus Smith in the 19th century, now a world-famous garden with plants from around the world), and the islands' maritime history including shipwrecks and the famous Scilly pilot gigs (the traditional rowing boats that are still raced competitively). The islands offer spectacular coastal scenery, white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant wildlife including seabirds, seals, and the rare Scilly shrew. The isolation has preserved a sense of community and slower pace of life that attracts visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Inter-island travel by small boats is an essential part of Scillonian life. The islands' economy depends heavily on tourism (visitors attracted by the unique environment and mild climate) and the famous flower farming industry (Scilly daffodils and other flowers sent to mainland markets). Boundary GIS data for the Council of the Isles of Scilly is available for download in GeoJSON and KML formats, essential for managing this unique island community, protecting its fragile environment and prehistoric heritage, supporting sustainable tourism, and maintaining the distinctive Scillonian way of life.