EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTIFUL ISLE OF MAN
Situated within easy reach of the UK and Ireland, the Isle of Man is one of the British Isles’ best-kept secrets. Whether you choose a short break or long holiday, the Manx experience can be as active or relaxing as you choose and because we offer you the freedom of taking your car, travelling by foot, motorbike or bicycle; you can set your own itinerary and go where you want, whenever you choose.
The Isle of Man has a unique and varied heritage, which is as evident today as it was thousands of years ago. Visitors are able to step back in time and retrace the Island’s history by taking the Manx National Heritage trail and visiting some of the Island’s most iconic sites. These include the magnificent medieval castle, Castle Rushen, the world’s largest working water wheel, the Great Laxey Wheel and the interactive Celtic and Viking museum, The House of Manannan.
If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, take an exciting journey to the summit of the Island’s only mountain, using the Snaefell Mountain Railway and enjoy the extraordinary views. It is the only place in the British Isles where you can see the Seven Kingdoms; England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Mann, Heaven and the Kingdom of the Sea.
Many of the Island’s best sites can be seen on foot. Varying in grading, location and length the Island has numerous paths for you to explore, including the 95 mile coastal path Raad Ny Foillan (Way of the Gull). Created to mark the Island’s “Heritage Year” celebrations in 1986, it forms a complete loop around the Manx coastline and passes through terrain varying from shingle beaches at Ayres to 600 feet high hills and cliffs. Perfect for those of you seeking adventure. It can be easily walked in sections and is clearly marked with a blue and white sign depicting a seagull.
The Isle of Man boasts a global reputation for fantastic motorsport events such as the famous TT Races and the Festival of Motorcycling which includes two major racing events - the Classic TT and the Manx Grand Prix. Visit the Isle of Man outside the busy times with your motorbike, ride the TT Course and follow the tyre tracks of your heroes.
The Island has a stunning and varied landscape, comprising of lush valleys, undulating hills, sandy beaches and wooded glens. A trip to the Island’s official British Bird Observatory on the Calf of Man is a must. As well as having the chance to see a wide variety of resident and migrant bird species, the Calf is a hotspot for the Island’s seal population, who are often found basking on the surrounding rocks. The Isle of Man has also been increasingly recognised for its clear waters and varied underwater wildlife including dolphins, whales, seals and basking sharks.
ACTIVITIES
The Isle of Man’s coastline plays host to a number of activities both in and out of the water. Kayaking, coasteering and diving are guaranteed to get your heart rate pumping, or bring your bicycle on the ferry to enjoy this cycling paradise. Venture along one of the many cycle paths and experience the Islands beauty. Whether you’re into road cycling or mountain biking, the Isle of Man has a number of varied terrains to suit all abilities.
EATING
After all the fresh air and activity it’s time to think about something to eat and somewhere to rest. The Island has famous local produce including Manx cheese, smoked Manx kippers, Manx Loaghtan lamb, and succulent queen scallops or 'Queenies' as they are more commonly known.
ACCOMMODATION
The Isle of Man has an extensive range of quality accommodation to suit your needs. Whether you choose to stay in one of the many hotels, guesthouses, apartments, self-catering cottages or campsites on the Island, you’ll be sure to receive a warm Manx welcome. Set your own itinerary or get a helping hand from our tour operator, Steam Packet Holidays
GETTING THERE
Isle of Man Steam Packet Company operates several routes to and from Douglas. Our other ports include Heysham, Liverpool, Dublin and Belfast. The Isle of Man is the ideal destination to explore by car, on foot, bicycle or of course motorbike. Enjoy the convenience of bringing your car on board and pack everything you need for your adventure on the Isle of Man; be it your bicycles, walking gear or even the family pet!
Take advantage of our great offers, including Car offers, our popular Kids Go Free Summer special, Foot Passenger offers, and for motorcycle enthusiasts, Motorbike offers.
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO ON THE ISLE OF MAN
- Kayak around the stunning Manx coastline
- Taste the delicious local produce including Manx Queenies
- Explore one of the castles; Peel Castle and Castle Rushen
- Walk the 95-mile coastal path; the Raad ny Foillan
- Take a ride on one of the heritage railways
- Experience the many and varied cycle paths
- Discover the Great Laxey Wheel, the largest working water wheel in the world
- Ride the TT Course
- Enjoy the beautiful wildlife and experience peaceful bird watching
- Learn about Tynwald, the oldest continuous parliament in the world
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