On a visit to the Isle of Man, we can’t guarantee the weather will always be warm and sunny. But you don’t need sunshine to enjoy all the island has to offer; it’s a great place to visit all year round. While there are plenty of beautiful walks with breathtaking views or open-air activities where cold or wetter weather only adds to the occasion, at some point you’ll be wondering what the best indoor activities are.
The Isle of Man is home to lots of cosy pubs, welcoming cafes and pleasant restaurants, all where you can take shelter while enjoying seasonal food and drinks. But we’ve chosen to highlight indoor activities where you can learn more about Manx culture, explore the history of the island, or get moving with some new pursuits. Let’s explore our favourites.
1. The Manx Museum
Opening times: Open daily 9.30am to 4.30pm
Cost: Free
Kicking off the list we have the Manx Museum – the ideal choice for a rainy day activity where all of the family can learn a thing or two while having fun. The Isle of Man has a rich and unique history, from its Celtic and Viking roots to its Victorian-era prosperity. Located in Douglas, this museum is a true treasure, offering a comprehensive look at over 10,000 years of Manx history. You can wander through exploring archaeological finds, Viking hoards, and fascinating social history exhibits.
2. House of Manannan
Opening times: Open daily 9.30am to 4.30pm
Cost: Children under 18 get free admission while the cost for adults is £14
There’s no better way to learn about the island’s maritime past than from the "great mythological sea god" Manannan – the legend this museum is named after. It’s designed to be an immersive and atmospheric experience, almost like you’ve stepped back in time, so it’s the perfect rainy day activity for families with kids of all ages.
The House of Manannan is based in Peel and starts with a story told on a stormy night in an Iron Age roundhouse. It continues through into the Viking ages, but we’ll save some of the best surprises for your visit. Just expect to experience maritime life in the 1800s with all of your senses.
3. Castle Rushen
Opening times: Open daily 9.30am to 4.30pm typically between the end of March and early November (but check exact dates for each year)
Cost: Children under 18 get free admission while the cost for adults is £14
Another destination holding many stories and a lot of history within its walls is Castle Rushen. Dominating the skyline of Castletown, the island’s former capital, Castle Rushen is an incredibly well-preserved medieval fortress which, since being originally built for a Norse king in the 12th century, has served as a royal residence, a mint and a prison. Now a museum and educational centre, you can explore chambers, cross drawbridges, climb winding staircases and enter dungeons to see what life was like in the past. Plus, even on cloudy days, you can enjoy spectacular views from the Castle’s ramparts.
4. Manx Fun Farm
Opening times: Play is in two-hour sessions, Monday to Saturday, starting at 10.30am and ending at 6pm
Cost: Entrance for play starts at £4, but additional activities cost more
The ideal destination for families to have up their sleeves in case of a downpour, Manx Fun Farm is a large indoor soft play area spread across over three levels, as well as bowling, roller skating and Laser Blast. There’s so much to do here that you’ll want to come even if the weather isn’t bad. The play equipment includes slides, tunnels, ball pits, and a dedicated area for babies.
5. Craftworks Studio
Opening times: During school holidays, open daily 10.30am to 5.00pm but during school term times they close on Mondays
Cost: £5 studio fee, with items for painting starting at £2
Craftworks Studio is a paint-your-own pottery studio offering the perfect activity to unwind indoors and have a souvenir of your adventures. The fully equipped ceramic studio is based in Castletown and can get busy, so we recommend booking ahead.
During your time here, you simply choose a piece of prepared pottery (there’s everything from mugs and plates to figurines) and then get creative with paints. There are examples to be inspired by and staff are on hand to offer advice. All in all, it’s a calming and enjoyable activity for individuals, couples, and families alike. Just be aware that glazing and firing can take up to seven days, so you may need to organise for your items to be posted.
6. Port Erin Railway Museum
Opening times: Open daily 9:30am to 4.30pm from March to November (the same opening period as the Steam Railway)
Cost: Adults £2 and children £1
The steam railways are an important part of the Isle of Man’s history and Port Erin Railway Museum is where you can learn all about them. Situated at the southern end of the Isle of Man Steam Railway, it’s on the smaller side for a museum but it is full of charm, telling the story of the rail network from its inception in 1873.
You can see beautifully restored locomotives and carriages up close, including the royal carriages which carried the Queen and Queen Mother in 1963 and Queen Elizabeth II in 1972. For an additional cost, there’s also a railway simulator to further enhance your nostalgic experience of the golden age of steam travel.
7. Gaiety Theatre
Opening times: Tours are available most Saturdays from Easter to end of September from 10am and shows are available all year round
Cost: The cost of shows will vary
On any trip to the Isle of Man, you should check the schedule at the Gaiety Theatre in Douglas. There’s a year-round programme of live performances, shows and events, including everything from ballet and live music to pantomime at Christmas.
This magnificent Victorian theatre, designed by the famous architect Frank Matcham, is an attraction in its own right. If none of the shows take your fancy, you can book a tour to learn about its fascinating history and see the intricate backstage mechanisms. Whether you end up laughing your way through a comedy show or exploring where the actors get ready for stage, a trip to the Gaiety is always a special experience.
8. Mad Jack’s Axe Throwing
Opening times: Typically open Friday 6pm to 9pm and Saturday 3pm to 9pm, but can open daily throughout the summer holidays
Cost: One hour of axe throwing is £27.50 per adult and £15 for children under 16
For our next indoor recommendation, we suggest trying something new: axe throwing. A unique and exhilarating activity, you’ll be guided by experienced instructors on how to safely and effectively hurl an axe at a wooden target. It’s surprisingly therapeutic and a lot of fun. Mad Jack's Axe Throwing is based in Douglas and the event space also boasts retro video games and arcade machines, excellent music and a well-stocked bar.
It may seem more suited to adults, but kids under 16 can also give it a go with foam axes.
9. Hot Rocks Climbing Wall
Opening times:
- Closed on Mondays
- Open Tuesdays 5:30pm to 9pm
- Wednesday to Friday 4:30pm to 9pm
- Saturday 10:30am to 6pm
- Sunday 1pm to 5pm
- Open earlier everyday during school holidays
Cost: Prices range from £9.00 to £16.50, depending on your age and whether you need to borrow shoes and chalk
Also based in Douglas, this indoor climbing centre is the perfect place to challenge yourself with over 2,000 square feet of climbing wall and 2,000 resin moulded climbing holds. There’s no need to book – you just show up to start bouldering. With routes changed on a regular basis and features such as vertical walls, caves, overhangs, and fingerboards, it’s the ultimate venue for having fun and building your climbing confidence, whether you’re new to climbing or have more experience.
10. Western Swimming Pool
Opening times: For public swim sessions and all classes, check out the latest timetable
Cost: £5 for adults and parents with toddlers, £4 for seniors (60+), children (5-16), and for disabled swimmers with a carer
One of the best weather-proof indoor activities, the Isle of Man has several swimming pools but we recommend the Western Swimming Pool as a great place to do more than just laps. The facilities, located in Peel, include a large main pool, a leisure pool with warmer water for kids, and a cafe for snacks afterwards. There’s also classes and pool-based activities including Aquafit, synchronised swimming, and indoor kayaking.
Plan your visit to the Isle of Man by ferry
With these recommendations, we hope we’ve shown you that you don’t need to worry about what to do when the island's famously unpredictable weather decides not to cooperate. The Isle of Man is packed with fantastic indoor attractions that promise fun, culture, and excitement for everyone – ensuring your holiday is memorable, no matter the weather. So start planning your visit today by booking your ferry journey with Steam Packet to travel in comfort.