Day to day 6

Day 1 We fly to the Isle of Man and transfer to our hotel in Douglas, the capital of the island.

Day 2 – House of Manannan Museum & Peel Today we are set for a Viking adventure fit for a legendary sea god, as we head to Peel to visit the House of Manannan, a museum that explores the Island’s vibrant Celtic and Viking past. See various exhibitions and life-sized reconstructions of Viking ships, such as Odin’s Raven, a recreation of a Viking longboat in two-thirds scale and also a life-sized reconstruction of a Celtic house. Afterwards, we spend time in Peel, the island’s mini fishing port where we can explore this ‘rose red city’, well known for its red sandstone castle and buildings. Later, on the way back to our hotel, we stop at famous landmark, Tynwald Hill for a photo opportunity. The sight marks the Isle of Man’s independence with its distinctive four-tiered hill. The area is also famous for ancient Viking graves, and a temple dedicated to the Norse god Thor, found near the site of St. John’s Church.

Day 3 – Isle of Man Steam Railway & Castle Rushen We take a trip on the iconic Isle of Man Steam Railway on the longest narrow gauge steam line in Britain. We journey to Port Erin and can enjoy the stunning countryside views and scenery, all while sitting back and relaxing in the original carriages. We disembark at Port Erin for some free time to enjoy this picturesque seaside village. Next, we continue our exploration of the island and head south to Castle Rushden in the historic capital of the Isle of Man, Castletown. Called ‘one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the world,’ the castle dominates Castletown. Originally built for a Norse king, the castle has been a fortress, royal residence, a prison and even execution grounds. Afterwards, we spend some time in Castletown where we can explore its grey limestone buildings and harbour before making our way back to the hotel.

Day 4 – Optional Excursion to Cregnesh, The Sound & Port St. Mary £18pp For our optional excursion, we start the day with a visit to Cregnesh, a village on an upland plateau which overlooks the Calf of Man, a tiny Island, off the southwest coast of the Isle of Man. Cregnesh was one of the last settlements of the Manx – their native culture has significant Norse, Gaelic, and English influences. Here we can explore the crofting way of life and step inside Manx cottages to see how the crafters lived. You might even catch a sight of a four-horned sheep and traditional farming practices in action. Next, we make our way five miles south of Castletown to the Sound, at the islands most southern tip. Here we alight for a photo opportunity of the Calf of Man before heading back to Port St Mary where we spend the rest of the day. Spend time watching the busy yacht harbour or taking in the views of the pretty, sandy beach.

Day 5 – Manx Electric Tram & Laxey Wheel Today we discover the joys of the award-winning Manx electric railway with a charming trip along the East coast on the vintage line from Douglas to Ramsey. Prepare yourself for fantastic views at a steady speed and enjoy the excellent service and friendly staff on this once in a lifetime experience. Afterward, we have time for lunch in Ramsey, the island’s second largest town in the north, whose name is derived from the Old Norse, hrams-á, meaning ‘wild garlic river,’ due to the settlements nearby where wild garlic grows in abundance. Don’t miss Ramsey’s beautiful harbour, still in daily use, and be certain to discover the busy shopping street in the main town. Our last stop takes us to the impressive water-powered wheel – Laxey Wheel, also known as Lady Isabella. Did you know that you’ll also find the Laxey Wheel on the reverse side of £20 notes issued by the Isle of Man Government? Something to look out for!

Day 6 We transfer to the island’s airport for our return flight home.