Samson
The largest uninhabited island in the archipelago. After its residents were moved off in the 19th century, stone-house ruins remain, and between its twin hills lies an empty sandy beach with a true desert-island feel.
Samson has two small hills, north and south. The hills hold Bronze Age burial chambers, and the slopes are scattered with the stone-house ruins left behind when the last residents departed in 1855. Michael Morpurgo's novel Why the Whales Came is set against this island's history of isolation. The island has no pier and no facilities. In summer, island-hopper boats carry visitors to the beach at low tide, where they wade ashore. Bring your own water and food, and wear shoes that can get wet. Confirm your return time before you land. The summit vegetation is dense, so stick to the existing paths.
Opening hours
Summer, depending on boat departures
Nearby sights
- Bryher
- Tresco Abbey Garden
- Hell Bay
- Cromwell's Castle
- King Charles's Castle
- The Garrison & Star Castle
- Hugh Town
- Isles of Scilly Museum