Visit Isle of May National Nature Reserve
Welcome to Isle of May National Nature Reserve
A tiny emerald floating in the deep blue waters of the Firth of Forth, the Isle of May is a truly wild place, blessed with natural wonders and a human heritage stretching back thousands of years.
Witness one of Scotland’s most amazing natural spectacles as hundreds of thousands of clamouring seabirds create bird-cities in which to raise their young.
Explore this extraordinary landscape to discover its fascinating history as a holy site for pilgrims, a haven for smugglers, a beacon for mariners and a base for soldiers.
Need to know
Some paths are level and well surfaced, whilst others are steep, rough and close to cliff edges. The weather changes quickly, so bring stout shoes, warm clothes, waterproofs and a hat.
Only registered assistance dogs can be carried on boats to the island. Please contact us to find out what the island has to offer visitors with a disability.
Getting there
Contact the following about trips to the Isle of May between April and September:
Anstruther
North Berwick
Public transport
More information
- NatureScot manages the Isle of May National Nature Reserve.
- Isle of May blog
What to do
The Isle of May is a great place for walking, wildlife watching and exploring. From April to July it comes alive with breeding birds. From August to September there is more freedom to explore its human history.
- Low-level tracks and paths.
- Toilets at the harbours, on some boats and on the island.
- Snacks and drinks on some boats (none on the island).
- Guide book, children’s activity sheet and schools’ expedition pack.
- Views of the sea cliffs and the mainland coast.
- Small visitor centre with natural history displays. Religious, maritime and military structures.
- Puffins, guillemots, razorbills and other seabirds (best from April to July).
