Pentle Bay, Tresco

Isles of Scilly Weather Guide

Seasonal conditions, travel disruption risk and the best times to visit.

Photo: Pentle Bay, Tresco (10 September 2012) — Jonathan Billinger · CC BY-SA 2.0. Display may be cropped. Photo details.

Alastair Semmens· Isles of Scilly CompareUpdated: June 2026Reviewed: June 2026

Independent guide — not affiliated with any operator. All prices, times and policies are indicative. Verify with operators before booking. Editorial Policy · Research · Disclaimer

Sources: Met Office UK Climate, Visit Isles of Scilly

Weather on the Isles of Scilly

The Isles of Scilly enjoy one of the mildest and sunniest climates in the United Kingdom, thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream. Average summer temperatures are comparable to the south coast of England, and winter frosts are rare. The islands are renowned for their early spring wildflowers — made possible by the mild conditions.

However, the islands are also fully exposed to Atlantic weather systems, and wind and rain are a regular feature. The weather can change quickly. Whatever time of year you visit, the golden rule is: pack layers and always carry a waterproof.

Seasonal Weather Breakdown

Spring (March–May)

10–16°C
Weather: Variable — some warm days, potential for Atlantic fronts
Travel: Scillonian starts in March; expect some cancellations early in the season
Crowds: Quiet, especially March–April
Tip: Pack layers. Great for wildflowers and birdwatching.

Summer (June–August)

16–22°C
Weather: Generally warm and settled — the best conditions for island hopping
Travel: All services fully operational; book well in advance
Crowds: Peak season — accommodation and tickets sell out early
Tip: Book everything as early as possible. The islands are at their most vibrant.

Autumn (September–October)

13–18°C
Weather: Warm early autumn; increasing wind and rain through October
Travel: Scillonian still running; weather disruption increases in October
Crowds: Quieter than summer — a great time to visit
Tip: September is arguably the best month: warm, quiet, great light.

Winter (November–February)

6–12°C
Weather: Mild for the latitude but can be very windy; fog possible
Travel: Check the final November ferry date; no sailings in core winter. Land's End Skybus and helicopter offer year-round routes.
Crowds: Very quiet; some businesses closed
Tip: A raw but beautiful time to visit for those seeking solitude.

How Weather Affects Travel

All three methods of travel to the Isles of Scilly can be affected by weather. Understanding the risk for each will help you plan appropriately:

Scillonian Ferry

Most susceptible to weather disruption. Rough seas or high winds can cause cancellations. Most common risk: early and late season (March–April, October–November). See our Scillonian Cancellations guide.

Skybus Flights

Fog and low cloud are the main risk — the small aircraft require visual conditions. Sea fog can affect Land's End Airport especially. Wind is generally less of a concern than for the ferry.

Penzance Helicopter

Generally more weather-resilient than the ferry in rough conditions. Can still be affected by severe winds, dense fog or other extreme weather. Considered the most reliable option overall.

Compare All Travel Options

Source: Met Office St Mary’s climate averages · Checked 9 September 2026.

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