Curator’s statement
There is a reason travelers of all kinds make their way to the Isle of Man: first-class motorcycle racing, vintage transportation, bird watching, gorgeous coastlines, outdoor adventures, medieval culture, the list goes on and on. With so much to see and do, this small island is worth the visit! And with the Isle of Man being the location of Brad Pitt and Channing Tatum’s new movie through Amazon MGM Studios, now is the perfect time to learn more about this UNESCO Biosphere ahead of the movie release.
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Things to do
Castle Rushen, Castletown Isle Of Man
Isle of Man motorcycle races
The TT Motorcycle Races are extreme racing at its finest! The course is 37.73 miles of the most dangerous motorsports that a spectator can see up close and personal. Two weeks of qualifying and racing ensures fans get to see speeds over 200 mph through public urban and rural roads. Rain delayed the race? Spend your time visiting the Isle of Man Motor Museum or the Manx Museum to learn more about the history of the Tourist Trophy races. Can’t make the TT dates? Consider the Manx Grand Prix instead.
Vintage transportation
Train lovers will enjoy every minute of the 15.5 mile ride on the Isle of Man Steam Railway between Douglas and Port Erin. Carriages are Victorian and look exactly as they did when the Railway opened in 1873, complete with wooden windows with leather pulls. Enjoy the nostalgic photos in each carriage as you wind your way to the southern part of the island. Heading North, take the Manx Electric Railway to Ramsey or head to the highest summit on the Snaefall Mountain Railway to the town of Laxey.
Castletown
It is easy to spend an afternoon in Castletown. The views from the top of Castle Rushen, a medieval castle that is in excellent condition, are spectacular. Enjoy a pint at The George Hotel before meandering through the small shops and eateries in what used to be the capital of the Isle of Man.
Viking fortress
Visit the town of Peel to see Peel Castle, an 11th century complex. Audio guides provide information on the culture, history, and treasures that have been found inside.
Hiking
One of the best known Celtic trails is the Isle of Man Coastal Path. It can take up to 10 nights to complete the entire 97.1 mile-long path while exploring all that the Isle of Man has to offer.
Loch Promenade
Take a stroll along the 1.5 mile Heritage Walk to get a glimpse of what Douglas has to offer. Birdwatchers will love this area as the tide goes in and out. The Tower of Refuge, which was used as a safe area for shipwreck victims, can be seen from the promenade.
Places to eat & drink
Manx Queenies and chips at The Port
Jaks Bar and Smokehouse, Douglas
This fun sports bar right off of Loch Promenade serves lunch and dinner. The burgers are large and filling!
Coast Bar and Brasserie, Douglas
Enjoy an elevated menu that highlights Manx cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. The Coast is right on Loch Promenade.
The Crosby
Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating at this local pub. Outdoor fills up fast during the TT Races so arrive early for the best seats to watch the race.
The Port, Port Erin
This restaurant and bar inside of The Falcon’s Nest Hotel serves a variety of food and beverages with stunning views of the coastline. Order Max Queenies—you won’t be disappointed with this local cuisine!
The George Hotel, Castletown
Enjoy views of Castle Rushen from the pub inside The George Hotel. Traditional pub food can be enjoyed from a variety of seating styles.
Need to know
A visit to the Isle of Man for the TT Races takes advance planning, since ferry tickets from Ireland or the UK go on sale early and sell out fast. Working with a travel advisor who has visited during this event can help you with the tricky logistics. Visiting from March to October is best. Since there is so much to see and do, a visit to the Isle of Man is suitable for all ages and group sizes. Don’t forget to pack layers, and a rain jacket, as the weather changes quickly!
Travel Advisor
Go by Go Travel
Erin Gockel
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