Whilst the Isle is now without permanent residents, visitors can observe its rich cultural heritage, evidence of which is dotted around the island. The Isle of May is also home to one of Robert Stevenson's Lighthouses - a 24 metre high square gothic tower established in 1816 that remains in use to this day.
In the spirit of exploring our own backyard, we set off on a day trip to the Isle of May, planning sleek, utilitarian outfits to strike a balance between form and functionality.
Despite being only 1.5km long and 0.5km wide (roughly 57 hectares) at the height of the breeding season, the Isle of May can host around 200 000 seabirds. The puffin population alone can reach around 90 000 • Uli Schade
Over 285 bird species have been recorded on the Isle of May, including Puffins, Black Legged Kittiwakes, Razorbills, Fulmars, Guillemots Shags and Terns • Uli Schade
Mackintosh Anstruther Bonded Cotton Field Jacket in Navy • Massimo Alba Winch Baby Corduroy Trousers in Navy • Paraboot Michael Shoe in Marron
Mackintosh Anstruther Bonded Cotton Field Jacket in Navy • Jamieson's Crew-Neck Shetland Jumper in Sholmit Marl • Massimo Alba Winch Baby Corduroy Trousers in Navy • Paraboot Michael Shoe in Marron
The ledges of the West and South Cliffs of the island provide a safe haven for nesting birds, free from many of the predators found on the mainland • Uli Schade
Manifattura Ceccarelli Two Tone Weekender Coat in Navy / Tan • Orcival Unisex Long Sleeve Marinière T-shirt in Ecru and Marine • Manifattura Ceccarelli Fatigue Pants in Navy
The western coast of the island consists of cliffs up to 150ft, sloping gradually down to sea level on the east • Uli Schade
Arpenteur Kaolin Ventile Parka in Navy • SNS Herning Fisherman Sweater in Navy • Arpenteur Cotton/Linen Cargo Pants
Arpenteur Kaolin Ventile Parka in Navy • SNS Herning Fisherman Sweater in Navy • Arpenteur Cotton/Linen Cargo Pants
Isle of May, South Horn • Uli Schade
SNS Herning Fisherman Sweater in Navy
Ferries to the island run from April through September. The best months to see the breeding seabirds are throughout June and July, with the Puffins leaving the island to begin their migration in mid August.
