Scilly Isles

Scilly Isles, archipelago, south-western England, in the Atlantic Ocean, 40 km (25 mi) south-west of Land's End. Formerly administered by Cornwall, the islands now make up the self-governing Isles of Scilly unitary authority. The group consists of about 140 small islands and rocks, with a total area of about 16 sq km (6 sq mi). Only five of the islands are inhabited: St Mary's, Tresco, St Martin's, St Agnes, and Bryher, which have a total population of 2,153 (2001). Prehistoric remains show that the islands have been populated since c. 2000 bc.

The islands are noted for their rugged granite cliffs and wild scenery. The mild climate permits cultivation, during the winter, of flowers and vegetables for sale on the mainland. Tourism is the other main economic activity: St Mary's, by far the largest of the islands, attracts most visitors, but Tresco offers the appeal of subtropical gardens, and St Martin's is famous for the variety of shells on its beaches. The Isles of Scilly have been designated by the Countryside Agency as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A ferry links the islands to Penzance, and there are several air services. The capital, Hugh Town, on St Mary's, has a substantial harbour. Many ships have been wrecked on the rocky coasts of the islands.