With its long Celtic heritage, gorgeous scenery, old towns and vintage attractions, the Isle of Man has plenty for everyone who loves history and natural beauty. This comprehensive tour focuses on the island’s rich traditions, with journeys on its famous Steam Railway and Snaefell Mountain Railway, and visits to Cregneash Folk Park.
Isle of Man Steam Railway
Cregneash Folk Park
Old House of Keys
Manx Electric Railway
The Laxey Wheel
Manx Electric Railway
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Manx Museum & Manx Electric & Snaefell Mountain Railways
This morning, we make a short journey to visit the Manx Museum, where the Island’s 10,000-year history is presented through film, galleries and interactive displays. Where we will gain a better insight of the island and its Viking and Celtic past. After our introduction to the island, we take a journey on the Manx Electric Railway, a classic electric tramway that traces the island’s east coast to Laxey. Here, we board the Snaefell Mountain Railway for the scenic 5-mile climb to the summit of Snaefell Mountain. On a clear day, you can see, what the locals refer to as the Seven Kingdoms: England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, Heaven, and the sea. Dating back to 1895, this Victorian railway is the only electric mountain railway in the British Isles. We have time at the summit for lunch before taking the train down and driving back to Laxey. There is time here to visit The Great Laxey Wheel, the world’s largest working waterwheel before returning to our hotel. Please note we have not included admission to the Laxey Wheel as reaching it requires a steep 5–10-minute walk from the coach park.
Day 3 Cregneash & Isle of Man Steam Railway
Today we explore the Isle of Man’s south coast, remembering to greet the fairies who promise good luck as we cross the famous Fairy Bridge and make our way to Cregneash Folk Park. Costumed guides show us around the cottages of this restored 19th-century crofting village. Next, we visit Castletown, the island’s ancient capital, where we have the option to visit the Old House of Keys, among other attractions such as Castle Rushen, or just enjoy free time before we embark on a one-way trip on the Isle of Man Steam Railway to Douglas. The rest of the day is at leisure in Douglas.
Day 4 Tynwald, TT & Douglas
We begin our morning with a tour of the Isle of Man’s parliament current Chambers, Tynwald and its branch The House of Keys. Of Norse origin, the assembly is the oldest continuous parliament in the world. After a fascinating visit, we meet our guide who will join us on-board the coach, to give us further insight into the Isle of Man and its history whilst pointing out key locations as we make our way around the infamous TT circuit. We return to Douglas in the afternoon, where we can experience attractions such as the town’s iconic horse-drawn tramway, which trundles along the promenade.Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
The Empress Hotel
Douglas, Isle of Man
The 4-star Empress Hotel is situated in an impressive beachfront location overlooking Douglas Bay and within easy walking distance of Douglas town centre. The grand Victorian hotel with modern facilities and stylish interiors offers a warm and friendly welcome for all guests. All 104 traditional bedrooms are generously sized and are well appointed with lovely soft furnishings. Groups can relax in the contemporary and light, open-plan Piano Bar, Lounge and Conservatory which offers plenty of seating and a pianist 4 days a week in the main season. Groups dine in the spacious street level Promenade restaurant.
BarLiftParking Off Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
The Rutland Hotel
Douglas
This traditional, group-friendly hotel overlooks the main seafront at Douglas and is renowned for offering first-class service and food. All 64 bedrooms are well-maintained. The restaurant’s windows offer beautiful views of Douglas Bay and there is also a separate bar. Please be aware that there are 9 unavoidable steps to access the building and due to the original architectural features, the hotel advises that they are not suitable for any guests requiring wheelchair, mobility assistance or street level access.
BarLiftParking Off Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Chesterhouse Hotel
Douglas
Located within easy walking distance of central Douglas and overlooking Douglas Bay, the 3-star Chesterhouse Hotel offers great hospitality, service and food. All the 67 warmly decorated bedrooms are lift-accessible and the traditional restaurant and bar both overlook the seafront. Please be aware that there are 6 unavoidable steps to access the building and due to the original architectural features the hotel advises that they are not suitable for any guests requiring wheelchair, mobility assistance or street level access.
BarLiftParking Off Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing
Inclusions
- Entrance to the Manx Museum
- One-way journey Manx Electric Railway (Douglas-Laxey)
- Return journey on Snaefell Mountain Railway (Laxey-Summit)
- Return ferry crossing Heysham-Douglas
- Entrance to National Folk Museum
- One-way journey on Isle of Man Steam Railway (Castletown – Douglas)
- Guided Tour of Tynwald
- Full day step-on guide of the Isle of Man
See quote for hotel inclusions
Empress Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £479pp
Single Supplement £75
The Rutland Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £528pp
Single Supplement £85
Chesterhouse Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £535pp
Single Supplement £85
Based on Sunday arrivals
