Scilly

The Isles of Scilly, commonly called Scilly, are an archipelago off the southwestern tip of Cornwall, England. The group comprises around 140 islands and rocks, of which five are inhabited: St Mary's, Tresco, St Martin's, Bryher, and St Agnes. The principal settlement is on St Mary's, with Hugh Town as the main hub. The islands lie about 28 miles (45 km) west of Land's End and are surrounded by the Atlantic and Celtic Seas.

Geography and environment: The islands have a mild maritime climate influenced by the Gulf Stream. The terrain varies from low-lying islets to rocky headlands, with Tresco known for its Abbey Garden. The area is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and supports diverse seabird colonies and marine life around the surrounding reefs and sea cliffs.

History and economy: Evidence of habitation dates to the Bronze Age, and the islands were part of the Duchy of Cornwall in medieval times. The modern economy is dominated by tourism and horticulture, including crops produced in glasshouses on the inhabited islands. The archipelago also has a long maritime history and remains a popular destination for sailing and nature watching.

Administration and access: The Isles of Scilly form a unitary authority and civil parish within Cornwall, governed by the Isles of Scilly Council. Access to the islands is by air from St Mary's Airport or by ferry from the mainland port of Penzance; the Scillonian III passenger ferry operates seasonally, linking to the mainland for residents and visitors.