Isle of May

The Isle of May is a small island in the Firth of Forth off the east coast of Scotland, renowned as a national nature reserve and important seabird breeding site supporting thousands of birds. It combines wildlife interest with visible historic remains and a staffed warden presence during the breeding season.

Large colonies of seabirds nest on the island’s cliffs and grassy slopes, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and fulmars, attracting birdwatchers and wildlife tours; visitors also encounter grey seals around the shoreline. The island has a small visitor season with guided walks and interpretation offered by reserve staff.

Archaeological and historic features include the remains of a medieval priory and later buildings; maritime navigational structures such as the lighthouse mark the island’s long role in regional seafaring. Over time the island shifted from religious and maritime uses to formal conservation management.

The Isle of May lies in the outer Firth of Forth, roughly 8 kilometres off the Fife coast near towns such as Anstruther and Crail; boat services to the island operate from East Neuk ports and sometimes from North Berwick, weather permitting.

• Best time for wildlife: Seabird breeding season runs mainly from late spring into summer, with the best viewing for puffins and other breeding birds typically May through July.
• Access and logistics: Regular ferry services run to the island from Anstruther and other East Neuk ports; landing and routes are weather dependent and guided visitor facilities are seasonal.

What to See #

• Lighthouse: A working lighthouse and associated keeper buildings occupy part of the high ground and are a visible landmark for boats approaching the island.
• Priory ruins: Ruins of a medieval priory and associated historic remains record the island's use as a medieval pilgrimage site and early Christian settlement.
• Seabird cliffs and colonies: Sea cliffs and ledges that host large breeding colonies of seabirds including puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes during the spring and summer months.