Samson
Island Uninhabited granite island in the Isles of Scilly
A small, uninhabited island in the Isles of Scilly, Samson appears on boat trips for seabird colonies, coastal rock formations and sea‑kayak landings.
Samson is a small, uninhabited island in the Isles of Scilly, off the southwest coast of England. It is one of the archipelago’s minor rocky islets and lies within the maritime landscape of the Scillies.
The island is rugged and coastal in character, with rocky shores and maritime vegetation rather than developed facilities. Access is by private boat or specialist trips from other islands; there are no visitor services on Samson.
Historically the islet has no continuous modern settlement and is managed as part of the wider Isles of Scilly group. It is treated primarily for its natural and maritime values rather than as a built heritage site.
Samson sits within the archipelago northwest of mainland Cornwall and is part of the administrative area associated with the Isles of Scilly. It is surrounded by the Atlantic and lies among the other small islands and rocks that make up the group.
- Status: No permanent residents; classed as one of the uninhabited islets of the Isles of Scilly.
How to Get to Samson #
Samson is a small uninhabited island in the Isles of Scilly (off the Cornish coast). There are no roads or regular public services to the island; access is by private boat or through licensed local boat operators from St Mary’s or Tresco. To reach the Isles of Scilly from the mainland, take the ferry from Penzance or flights from Land’s End to St Mary’s, then arrange a local boat transfer - landing on Samson is generally restricted and not recommended except with an experienced operator.
Tips for Visiting Samson #
- Samson is an uninhabited island of the Isles of Scilly and is generally reached only by private boat or charter - most visitors view it from day trips rather than attempting an unsanctioned landing.
- If you want a closer look, book with a local boat operator from St Mary's/Hugh Town who know safe approaches and any seasonal restrictions; avoid trying to land without permission because landing conditions are often hazardous and wildlife protections may apply.
Best Time to Visit Samson #
Plan visits in summer when sea conditions are most reliable; access depends on boat services and calm weather.
Weather & Climate near Samson #
Temperate climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 7°C to 19°C. Abundant rainfall (1016 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 7°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (125 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 10°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (69 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (86 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 11°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cool with highs of 12°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (111 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.