Don’t miss these 7 locations on your Isle of Man vacation

Back to blog list  July 09, 2018

Located equidistant to Wales, Scotland, Ireland and England, the Isle of Man is a top tourist attraction comprising of diverse landscapes, coastal wonderlands, abundant wildlife and of course, the International Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) Race which has been up and running since 1907. The initial settlers were Celts, and until the early 19th century Manx was the primary language spoken on the island. The Vikings swiftly followed the Celts and specific locations, and names like the title of Tynwald pay respects to the Viking legacy on the island. The island adopted the Nordic system of parliamentary and is reported to be the oldest parliament in the world.

The Isle of Man is a ‘crown dependency’ meaning that it’s entirely self-governing however the Crown is responsible for external affairs, citizenship and defence. Until recent times the Isle of Man was believed to be a tax haven and, the parliamentary representative democracy has rigorously implemented recent measures to meet international tax standards. The island is known for its unconventional methods and practices that wave off England’s support to do things the Mann way. Campervans and motorhomes are welcome throughout the year and can easily access the island through the ferry service which operates all year. Towed caravans will require a special permit owing to the tricky and sometimes windy roads. Two weeks before arrival caravan users will need to present a written request via mail ([email protected] ) or post stating travel dates, where the caravan will be stationed and the reason for your journey.

Take a peek at the best attractions and perhaps relish the islands stunning beauty with your very own eyes and make sure to reserve your England motorhome hire today!

Douglas

Sunset on Douglas Harbour. Image courtesy of andrewhaddockphotography on Instagram

Douglas is the capital city of the Isle of Man and serves as the base of operations for the islands finance sector as well as the government. The most populous town, Douglas is set on the east coast of the island and offers many activities and sights for visitors. The north of the island is accessible by electric railway and is the quieter side of town. Aaccessible by steam railway, the south of the island and is located closer in proximity to bus and sea terminals than the north. The city manages to capture the right ambience of a bustling harbour and a seaside resort. Enjoy a walk on the seafront in a horse tram and take a look at the Tower of Refuge which was a shelter and harbour for shipwrecked sailors. Dink in the town’s history with a visit to the Manx Museum. Climb Snaefell, the islands lone mountain, and if the weather is clear, you’ll get a birds-eye view of the seven kingdoms: the Isle of Man, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales Heaven and Manannan. The Gaiety Theatre or the Royal Hall usually hold cultural events. There are plenty of accommodation types and fantastic eateries within the capital. Find an assortment of great food along the Promenade and the Quayside in the metropolis, head north to Ramsey for a choice selection of family-owned bistro’s or drop by Peel in the West for some of the finest seafood on the island!


Douglas head

The Douglas Head Lighthouse. Image courtesy of seventyninephotography on Instagram.

Providing some of the best views of the island plus Laxey and Snaefell Mountain, Douglas head overlooks Douglas Bay and is accessible by the Marine Drive. While you’re there drop by the old amphitheatre or take in the spectacular sites of the Grand Union Camera Obscura. The Grand Union Camera Obscura building is constructed chiefly as a tourist attraction and projects of the surrounding areas onto a dark wall utilising mirrors and lights.

Tynwald National Park and Arboretum

Opened to the public in 1979, the Tynwald National Park is set on 25 acres of land and provides a peaceful ambience in which one may have a picnic or read a book under the soft shade of the trees. Take a look at trees from the islands 17 Manx communities or enjoy the beautiful trees, large pond, a collection of native trees and the children’s playground.

Dark Sky Discovery Sites

Unmatched stargazing in the Isle of Man. Image courtesy of brookwassall on Instagram

Take advantage of the low light pollution to view the dazzling Milky Way, Orion Nebula and the Great Andromeda Galaxy. On the North Eastern coast, one can even see the northern lights on a clear night. The island offers some lodgings that are pro stargazing plus there are many campervan and motorhome campsites located in proximity to the 26 Dark Sky Discovery sites which makes for a delightful evening around the campfire!


The Ayres National Nature Reserve

Lighthouse at the Point of Ayre. Image courtesy of phil_sproson_photography on Instagram

Enjoy rare lichen heath at the Ayres National Nature reserve. The gem of a habitat that can only is so rare; it can only be savoured in a handful of locations in the UK. The reserve is home to rare breeding birds and provides keen bird-watchers with a chance to view skylarks, linnets, sandwich tern, lapwing and curlew.

The Glens

Stunning views at Glen Maye. Image courtesy of azwaldow on Instagram

Comprising of 18 mountain and coastal glens which are preserved in a semi-natural state by the Manx government, the Glens are open to the public throughout the year and offer fantastic views of majestic waterfalls, refreshing rock pools and striking views. Glen Maye is one to visit if you’re looking for scenic tranquillity as the glen contains a beautiful waterfall and unusual plant life. Dhoon Glen is for the more adventurous as it is the steepest glen while Ballaglass Glen and the glen of Tholt y Will is known for their gripping beauty. Get your campervan hire and savour the glades firsthand!


Castletown and Castle Rushen

Castle Rushen. Image courtesy of Dave Hamster on Visual hunt / CC BY

The ancient home of the Kings and Lords of Mann, Castle Rushen is located in the islands former capital, Castletown. Castle Rushen served as a royal residence, a prison and a mint. The castle was constructed during the 12th century for a Norse king and significantly damaged by King of Scots, Robert the Bruce. Today the well-preserved castle stands at the centre of town and is now converted to a museum and educational centre. Walk through the castles many rooms as you discover the life and times of its occupants or take a walk over the drawbridge into the castle gardens for stunning views in all directions!



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