manx sea life safari

Seaside safari

© Mark Hamblin/2020VISION

Where to explore the seashore

If you spend all year dreaming about your seaside holiday, now’s the time to make the most the coast and enjoy the sea and its wildlife. Childhood memories of summer days spent paddling, shrimping, or dressing up in seaweed, rain or shine, can inspire a love for the sea that lasts a lifetime. Make this trip a bit different from the others - we're putting you in touch with the huge variety of seaside experiences on offer: snorkelling safaris, whales, dolphins, cliff-top birds and more. We host a huge number of seaside activities, especially during  National Marine Week ,  and care for many coastal wild  havens  and  islands .  

Learn to love jellyfish, embrace the plaice and we defy you not to lose your heart to a basking shark!

© Alexander Mustard/2020VISION

Basking shark ©Alexander Mustard/2020VISION

© John MacPherson/2020VISION

© Paul Naylor  http://www.marinephoto.co.uk/

Find seaside spots near you

As well as the ideas listed below, you’ll find more ideas on our page listing great places to go rockpooling , and our  events  pages.

Tees Valley Wildlife Trust

In June, park at Saltburn and walk along the base of some of the highest cliffs in England, looking up to the Trust’s nature reserve  Hunt Cliff . Prepare to have your senses bombarded by the cry of kittiwakes, who having spent the winter months at sea return to the productive waters around the North Sea to breed. The cliff face is of regional importance for nesting kittiwakes and other seabirds such as fulmar and cormorant. These can be spotted from the beach at Saltburn, or watched from the cliff top as they soar on thermals or return to their nests with food for their young. Kittiwakes can be distinguished from other gulls by their black wing-tips.

The cliffs are also of interest for their house martin colony – a rare example of this bird nesting in its original, natural habitat. Later in summer, the cliff tops are splashed with colour as wildflowers begin to show on the coastal grasslands, including the scarce dyer’s greenweed, three species of orchid, and other plants such as spiny restharrow, sea plantain and wild carrot.

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

Visit the  Living Seas Centre  at Flamborough; a fascinating place for all ages. Join Living Seas Officers for a Seashore Safari, come along for an evening talk, create a marine-themed masterpiece, or learn about Yorkshire's valuable shellfish. Discover the weird and wonderful creatures to be found hidden below the waves; learn how the upwelling of the Flamborough Front supports such a huge variety of life; watch locally-shot video of undersea kelp forests and chalk reefs; embark on a storyboard trail around Flamborough Cliffs; and find out how we can all do our bit for marine wildlife, all while enjoying a cup of tea or ice cream.

Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust

Lincolnshire’s long sandy beaches are great for scavenger hunts for shells, sea urchins, mermaid’s purses, and other washed up treasures. There’s also the chance of seeing harbour porpoise, grey and common seals, and a variety of coastal birds. The best sites to try are Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust’s  Gibraltar Point  and the  Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park . Events at Gibraltar Point include sea dipping – the sandy coast version of pond dipping – when all sorts of sea life can be seen.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust

Go grey seal spotting off the beautiful  Looe Island  where  Cornwall Wildlife Trust  has been monitoring seal numbers since 2000. Visitors to Looe Island are almost guaranteed to see the seals and help the wardens spot and record individual seals, like Looe Seal, Duchess, Pawprint and Boomerang, who you can identify by the unique patterns on their fur. Visit between Easter and September.

Feeling a little more adventurous and don’t mind getting wet? Why not go snorkelling in Durgan’s mysterious eel grass beds? In the summer months, as the water temperature rises, you can snorkel through the mysterious eel grass beds off Durgan and Greeb beach in the waters of the stunning Helford Passage. Cornwall Wildlife Trust regularly run snorkel safari events here where their marine experts can get you up close to wonderful marine life such as pipe fish, bass, plaice, large hermit crabs and the incredibly rare black-faced blenny.

Devon Wildlife Trust

Wembury  offers some of the best rockpooling in the UK. The popular tourist beach has a rocky shore, hiding hundreds of rockpool creatures: from velvet swimming crabs to tompot blennies. Every spring and summer the Trust runs regular guided rockpool safaris led by trained staff who reveal the secrets of the pools.

Dorset Wildlife Trust

Kimmeridge Bay ( Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve ) is one of the best spots for rockpooling, snorkelling, and kayaking in Dorset. The ‘sea safari’ snorkel trail offers clear, calm waters. There’s also a waterproof guide to help you identify species you may encounter, like sand eels, tompot blennies, and kelp seaweed. Take a ‘Seashore Explorers’ pack out with you, which includes a eco-friendly crabbing kit, seashore ID guides, and magnifying bug pots, helping you and your family make the most of the marine wildlife along the coast at Kimmeridge. We also have a Kayak Safari, complete with goggle viewers and glass bottoms – perfect to see the wildlife lurking beneath the waves!

Kent Wildlife Trust

The internationally important wetland reserve at Kent Wildlife Trust’s  Oare Marshes , near Faversham, is a must to visit in spring and autumn for its great flocks of wildfowl and waders - in particular black-tailed godwits in their hundreds. Also look out for marsh harriers, merlin, short-eared owls, snipe, and bearded tits amongst the impressive array of species. From here, the antics of a colony of common seals can also be observed at Horse Sands in the Swale Estuary.

Essex Wildlife Trust

The Naze  at Walton is famous for its wildlife, geology, heritage, erosion, coastal community, history, and beach. At low tide, the beach is a superb place for rock-pooling, birdwatching, and fossil hunting – with a little patience and luck, you could uncover fossilised shark’s teeth!

Isle of Man

Manx wildlife trust.

The Isle of Man is a fantastic place to watch marine megafauna - it’s a hot spot for basking sharks in the summer, with an occasional leatherback turtle or sun fish. Regularly spotted are minke whale, harbour porpoise, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, and Risso’s dolphin, and a year-round population of grey seals and a few common seals. Occasionally humpback and killer whales make an appearance. 

In summer, basking sharks can be spotted all round the Isle of Man, though the best area for seeing them is the south west coast of the Island from Peel down to the Calf of Man - they can be seen from land or a boat and often come close to the shore. Dolphins and whales can be seen all year, with different species seen at different times. For a chance of a close up look, you can try your luck on an organised boat trip, but you can get a great view on a coastal walk with binoculars.

The Manx Wildlife Trust has set up 6 marine scene  stations    around the island where you are likely to see marine mega fauna, with species information boards as well as binoculars allowing you to see the animals clearly. Find them at:

• Bradda Glen in Port Erin
• Kallow Point in Port St Mary
• Marine Drive in Douglas
• Breakwater in Peel

There are also plans afoot to put two more in once funding is available.

The Wildlife Trust for South and West Wales

You can see seals all around Pembrokeshire's rocky and twisted coastline, but only on  Skomer Island   will you hear them sing. Their melancholic siren songs travel far in the evening breeze. Get up close to the Cardigan Bay ‘big three’ for an adventure you’ll never forget! This fantastic marine wildlife experience is guaranteed to whet your appetite.

Go on a journey with  Dolphin Survey Boat Trips   to see the heavenly Welsh coastline and fantastic wildlife in action. Witness dolphins, harbour porpoise and grey seal in their natural environment playing and posing for the camera. On land, the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre is manned by a team of dedicated volunteers who help monitor the local marine wildlife, and are happy to answer your marine wildlife questions and show you around the centre.

Scottish Wildlife Trust

Dive into Scotland's first  snorkel trails : self-led trails around Ullapool and the Isle of Harris feature a combined fifteen sites to explore! In Ullapool, the  North West Highlands Snorkel Trail  features nine beaches and bays on the coast of Wester Ross and Sutherland, while the  North Harris Trail  on the Isle of Harris includes six spots, all bursting with marine life. Beginner and advanced snorkellers can dive down to see the amazing diversity of Scotland’s seas, including dogfish, barrel jellyfish, and sea urchins.

Alderney Wildlife Trust

Longis Nature Reserve - Walking through the reserve's coastal trails you may glimpse rare plant species such as Small Hare’s-ear, Sand Crocus, Bastard Toadflax and Orange Bird’s-foot, as well as the endemic Alderney Sea Lavender on the rocky shore. Two bird hides overlook the reserve’s freshwater ponds, offering unrivalled views of waterfowl, songbirds and migrants alike.

Ramsar Site - Alderney and Burhou achieved the Ramsar designation in 2005 through their regionally, nationally and internationally important populations of seabirds. In particular the islets of Ortac and Les Etacs support around 1% of the world population of  Northern Gannets ( Morus bassanus ) .

Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust

The summer season sees the return of thousands of seabirds, including special species such as Manx shearwater, European storm petrels (of which Scilly hosts internationally important breeding populations), lesser black-backed gull, and puffin. Read more about the Scilly Wildlife Trust ’s seabird population here and here .

Throughout the summer, dependent on marine conditions, you may also be lucky enough to spot basking shark, common and Risso’s dolphin, and harbour porpoise. Seals are possible to see all year round, although the summer is a good time to see them from a tourist boat. For a peaceful experience, go island hopping and ask a local which bay to walk to at high tide to spot these wonderfully inquisitive creatures. Sit still and wait for one of those watchful heads to pop up and stare!

How to prepare

Checklist: Bucket and spade, snorkel and mask, barefeet for the sand, and prepare to lose all sense of time gazing into rockpools or out to sea. Tide timetables or local knowledge can prevent accidents - do your research in advance. Waterproofs and woollens are a must on a boat no matter how optimistic the forecast!

If you can't get to these places

Step inside The Wildlife Trusts’ 360 images of the coastline we care for –  explore  those beaches and hear the sea from your laptop. Check out our Living Seas pages to find out more about our  marine conservation work  - enjoy the winning art of our Undersea Art Award!

More wildlife experiences

From seeing colourful wildflowers to spotting magnificent birds of prey, we can help you get closer to wildlife across the UK.

Seabird city

The UK's cliffs and coastlines are home to some of the most important seabird colonies in Europe. Grab your binoculars and see…

Adopt a dolphin or shark

Searching for an original gift for a nature lover? Sponsor a dolphin or shark with the Wildlife Trusts to help fund conservation efforts…

Rockpool wildlife

Explore rockpool wildlife all year round at our top spots, and discover a world between the tides.

Take an evening tour around Skomer and Skokholm Islands and experience the awesome atmosphere as thousands of seabirds take flight around the islands. We then head out into St. Brides Bay to take in the spectacular sunsets and see the famous Manx Shearwater gathering on the water before they return to the islands after a day’s fishing.

Please call to book on:

01646 603109.

Adults £45 Children £25

Departures:

April – July 6pm Mon, Thurs, Sat & Sun

Departure Point:

Martins Haven SA62 3BJ

Terms and Conditions

Full T&C’s will be received upon booking.

Tickets are refundable only if we have to cancel the trip. Every effort is made to contact you prior to the trip departing if we feel that the conditions are not appropriate for the trip to go ahead. Cancellations are at our discretion and will be subject to tides, forecasts and sea conditions. We will endeavour to offer an alternative trip or the possibility of rescheduling.

Full Terms and Conditions

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Things to do in the Isle of Man when you’re at the TT

Although the racing is the main attraction for many of us at the Isle of Man, you do have rest days during race week in which you may find yourself looking to unwind, go behind the scenes, or see some wildlife. Our guide of Things to do in the Isle of Man offers a bit of something for everyone. You'd be suprised how much such a small island has to offer!

Looking for something to do when the racing’s not on at the TT?

Although the racing is the main attraction for many of us at the Isle of Man, you do have rest days during race week in which you may find yourself looking to unwind, go behind the scenes, or see some wildlife. Our guide of Things to do in the Isle of Man offers a bit of something for everyone.

From fishing trips to motor museums, whatever it is you enjoy or are in the mood for, we’d be surprised if you didn’t find it in this list. None of these suggestions are for our own profit or affiliate links, we just enjoyed the experience and we think you will too. So, what are you waiting for? Go and find your next Manx adventure!

Ride the Snaefell Mountain Course

Get a taste of the tt action for yourself.

Location:  Snaefell Mountain Course, Isle of Man What better way to get to know the Mountain course than riding it yourself. Despite the traffic that comes with the open roads, you can still go around the circuit and get a taste of what the racers see and feel. There really is no other course like it and we’re sure you’ll feel that as you start to climb the mountain and ride through the one way system over the mountain, past Creg-Ny-Baa and down to Douglas and through the grandstand.

If you’re crazy enough to not be excited about the TT before this lap, we are sure you’ll be in love with it after. It makes listening to race commentary and watching the highlights so much more real. You will not be alone, with other riders getting a chunk of the action to so make sure you are confident around other bikes and cars! If not, it is just as much fun going round in a car, you get more time to take it all in check out the bikes joining you around the circuit.

If you time it right, a number of photographers are road side on racing off days, ready to get a great snap of you riding around the course. You can then view the photographers’ photos here and if you like what you see, purchase a photo, which makes for a perfect souvenir from the TT races. We would recommend making sure the mountain section is open when you set off as this is often closed due to weather conditions or an accident.

“If you think the Isle of man TT is dangerous. Go home, cut your lawn and leave us to it” – Guy Martin

Find out more about the Snaefell Mountain course...

Course Guide

Lap of the Billown Circuit

Small circuit, big fun.

Location: Billown Circuit, Castletown, Isle of Man Why stop there? Keep the racing fever coming and head to Castletown to do a much shorter, yet similarly thrilling lap of the Southern 100 course. Stretching over 4.25 miles it will not take you too long to do a lap, although we wouldn’t recommend using racer records as a guide, they get round the course in just over two minutes!

You will quickly realise how sharp the corners are and how difficult it must be with the bikes all starting the race at the same time, unlike the TT. Like the race, the grandstand is smaller than the Isle of Man TT, however it is great to see the course in person, even if it’s just before you head to the airport for your flight home, as the course is a short drive away.

As the Southern 100 is roughly a month after the TT preparations for the race have begun, which you will notice as you go around the circuit. If you choose to do a lap during the Southern 100 race week, like those at the TT, photographers are on hand to take pictures of you. These unique souvenirs can then be viewed and purchased from the FanTTtastic site here .

“There is a grey blur, and a green blur. I try to stay on the grey one.” – Joey Dunlop

Find out more about the Billown Circuit

Hall of Fame

Visit Bushy’s TT Village

Food, drinks and music – what’s not to love.

Location:  Villa Marina Gardens, Harris Promenade, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2HP

Entrance fee: FREE

After a day out watching your favourite racers tear up the course, why not go and have a few drinks, watch a live band, and relax with fellow TT loving bikers at Bushy’s TT Viillage. Located at the Villa Marina Gardens in Douglas, a night at Bushy’s will be certain to give you a festival feeling and is the perfect location to discuss a day’s racing with likeminded bikers. Accoustic acts take to the stage from 5.30pm and the headline acts usually appear at 7.30pm and 9.30pm.

Please note, there is a different schedule on the opening weekend to celebrate the start of the TT fortnight as well as Mad Sunday. On Mad Sunday Bushy’s have introduces Mod Sunday, whereby the island’s scooter fanatics are invited to the village to listen to some Northern Soul, Tamla Motown, 60s and 70s Soul, SKA and Reggae. This starts at midday and finishes at 7pm, a great way to spend a part of your day scooter fans!

Bushy’s caters for all your drinking needs, whether it be beer, ciders, gin, wine and much, much more! As well as this, a wide variety of food is available, what better place to spend your evening at the TT?

“Bushy’s is the premier brewery on the Isle of Man”

Jurby Karting

Put your foot down and beat your mates.

Location: Jurby Karting, Jurby Airfield, Motodrome, Jurby, IM7 3BD, Isle of Man

Price: Individual driving sessions start from £15 for 10 minutes, challenges start from £35 for events 30 minutes upwards When you’ve been watching others race every other day it’s quite common to catch the bug. By this we mean prove you are capable of winning a race, albeit maybe not a TT.

At Jurby Karting you are able to put your foot down and race your friends, family or other competitors on a testing, yet fun course.

The circuit stretches over 1000 metres, featuring straights which will enable you to reach high speeds as well as hair pin bends it which will put your racing technique to the test. You will be accurately timed and results will be shown on a big screen, this means you can aim to beat your previous lap records as well as your friends! There is also a race in which you can work as a team with your friends or family to attempt to record a best time as a collective and get extra points for driving well.

Whatever your choice, Jurby Karting is a great way to jump in the hot seat and get a taste for the racing action yourself, you never know, you could be the next Lewis Hamilton! If you’re not that keen on karting, there is a viewing platform in order for you to get some great pictures and keep up to date with the race on the big screens.

“With an outrageously quick straight and hair pin bends you are guaranteed the drive of your life.”

Walk around the paddock

Take a look behind the scenes.

Location: TT Grandstand, Glencrutchery Road, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM2 6DA

Whether its race day or a rest day there is always plenty of life at the Isle of Man TT paddock. You will almost definitely see famous faces, with some racers opting to help out with the maintenance on their bikes. Watching the essential maintenance be carried out on these machines to make them fit for race is fascinating. It will leave you mind boggled that these machines are taken around the course at such phenomenal speeds. You will also get to enjoy the ferocious sounds of the engines being warmed up for testing and races.

The paddock is free and open to the public, so why not head down there, soak up the atmosphere and see the bikes and maybe some riders up close? Don’t forget your camera as the teams and racers usually up for a picture and a chat!

If it’s biking equipment or an official TT souvenir you’re after, you will find these at the paddock to. Whether it be an Isle of Man TT hoodie or some new leathers you’re after, the paddock’s the place to be. A range of tasty food and drink is also available within the paddock.

Up close and personal with legends of the road.

Manx Museum

Dive into the history of the isle of man….

Location: 1 Kingswood Grove, Douglas IM1 3LY, Isle of Man

Entrance fee: FREE – Donations welcome

Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm, Open Sundays,  1 April 2018 – 28 March 2019 *Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Tynwald Day and New Year’s Day.

The Manx museum gives you a bit more of an insight into the island’s history, rather than that of the TT and motorcycles. The museum in Douglas will take you through the ages of the Isle of Man’s past, all 10,000 years of it! You will start in the Viking and Celtic times, with films galleries and interactive displays on hand to improve your knowledge on the history of the Isle of Man. Many Manx artefacts and treasures are on show for your viewing pleasure, including collections of Viking silver and gold and relics from all over the Island.

If theatre is your thing, you’ll love the interactive gallery ‘Theatreland’, you are free to put on a show for your friends and family to enjoy. Maybe Performing Arts isn’t for you but Art itself is, the National Art Gallery will be right up your street, featuring a fascinating collection of pieces from the island.

We understand you’re at the Isle of Man for motorbikes and you may be getting withdrawal symptoms from the two wheeled machines. Well, don’t worry; you will end the tour in the motorcycle section, where you will find Fogarty’s bike, Hutchinson’s leathers, and other famous racing items. How well do you know the Snaefell course? You can put your knowledge and riding technique to the test on the Isle of Man TT: Ride on the Edge game!

You will finish up in the souvenir shop and café, where gifts, books and refreshments sold. An hour or two well spent we think!

“Well worth the visit.”

Great Laxey Wheel and Mine Trail

Lady isabella in all her glory.

Location: Wheel Hill, Laxey, IM4 7NL

Entrance fee: Adults £8.00, Children £4.00

Opening hours: 30 Mar ’18 to 4 Nov ’18 – 9.30am – 5pm, 5 Nov ’18 to 31 Mar ’19 – Closed for winter* , 1 Apr 19 to 3 Nov ’19– 9.30am – 5pm A short walk from the Laxey railway station you will find the famous Great Laxey Wheel also known as Lady Isabella. Built in 1854 by Victorian engineer Robert Casement, the world’s largest surviving waterwheel of its kind is located just above Laxey in the hills. You are able to climb to the top of the Victorian wheel, enjoying wonderful views of Glen Mooar Valley and Laxey itself – great opportunities for photos!

The wheel has been described as the island’s most dramatic tourist location, having served the mine for 70 years. Revolving at three revolutions per minute, the 22.1 meter tall wheel is a brilliant example of Victorian engineering. There is another great photo opportunity by the entrance to the complex, with the famous Manx triskelion featuring on the side of the wheel, making this a memento of not only the wheel, but the Isle of Man itself!

Once you have found out all there is to know about the Great Laxey Wheel; you have The Mines Trail to explore. There are two walks to enjoy, the first taking in points of industrial archaeological interests such as the T-rocker, the wheel cistern, the engine house and machine house. Please note, this walk takes around 15 minutes.

The second, steeper walk sees you wander through Glen Mooar Valley until you reach the Compressor House, taking in points of industrial archaeological interest along the way. Please note, this walk takes around 60 minutes.

“The Island’s most dramatic tourist attraction.”

Point of Ayre Lighthouse

The oldest operational lighthouse on the island.

Location: Point of Ayre, Isle of Man Go as far North on the Isle of Man as possible and you’ll come to the Point of Ayre Lighthouse. Just 16 miles from Burrow Head in Scotland, the lighthouse is the closest you’ll get to Britain whilst on the Isle of Man. A visitor centre is close by with a viewing platform that allows you to see Scotland and the Lake District. Believe it or not, at this point you are closer to Scotland than you are to Douglas!

The Point of Ayre- High Lighthouse is the oldest operational lighthouse on the Isle of Man, first being lit in 1818. It was constructed by Robert Stevenson, the grandfather of Robert Louis Stevenson the author of Treasure Island. It is situated on the shore, and stands much taller than the second lighthouse at the Point of Ayre, known as the’ Winkle Light’. The ‘Winkle Light’, constructed in 1890 by Robert Stevenson’s cousin David, is on the beach itself. It has been known that waves reach and damage the small lighthouse, with such a range between high and low tide at the Point of Ayre. This being the reason for the lighthouse base being somewhat wider than the tower itself.

The beach is the perfect place to go for stunning views on a rest-day during the TT. One of the quietest locations on the island, with great views of Cumbria and Scotland, it is also a great location to do a bit of fishing, with its considerable tidal range. Definitely the place to go to get away from the crowds!

“It is lovely to visit somewhere so unspoilt.”

Fairy Bridge

Do you believe.

Location: Primary A5 Port Erin to Douglas Road

How comes a small bridge on the primary A5 Port Erin to Douglas road between Santon and Malew gets so much attention? Well, with a name like that it’s obvious going to turn a few heads, although there is a deeper meaning. A superstition about the bridge exists, it is said to be unlucky if you were to go over the bridge and not greet the fairies. A simple ‘Good evening fairies’ will suffice. This superstition emerged in the 1950s and has stuck ever since.

As riding around the course at such high speeds it is not surprising that many racers go over the bridge and greet the fairies. With so much at stake and in such a dangerous race it wouldn’t hurt to have luck on your side, would it? Because of this, the bridge attracts a lot of attention from tourists and racing fans, so why not go and greet the fairies during race week and even have a picture with the famous sign?

“Good evening fairies”

Isle of Man Railway trips

Historic railways of the isle of man.

The Isle of Man TT is all about motorcycles, from bikes being ridden around the circuit at 200mph to bikers watching, drinking and socializing at the side of the road. However, on a rest day it’s sometimes nice to explore other modes of transport.

One which is part of the Isle of Man heritage is the famous trams, which have been running along the east and south coast of the island for over 100 years. Not only will you admire the amazing views, the various stops along the way are perfect to relax on the beach, have lunch in a pub or explore towns such as Ramsey and Douglas.

With four different lines you have plenty of choice as to where you start off from and where you end up. Each line has spectacular views and destinations, all coming at very little cost to ride.

Manx Electric Railway:

The stops on the manx electric railway are –.

• RAMSEY – a coastal town in the north of the Isle of Man, famous for riders racing through before they head up the Snaefell Mountain. On a race day you can watch from famous Ramsey locations such as the Ramsey Hairpin or Parliament Square, which are favourite viewing points for many TT spectators. Your railway trip may start or finish here depending where you are staying. There are lots to see and do, with one of the biggest harbours on the island, the Millennium Way footpath and Mooragh Park means there are opportunities for walking, cycling, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. As you would expect from seaside towns, there are plenty of pubs and resturants to choose from in Ramsey, with fish and chips being a local favourite.
• LAXEY – The fourth largest Isle of Man Island village in the center of the Manx Electric Railway is a great stopping point to split the journey from Ramsey to Derby Castle in half. With a pub just a thirty second walk from the stop this is a great place to hop off the tram for some lunch and refreshments. That being said, there is more than enough things to see and do in order to spend a day in Laxey, with a beach, small harbour and of course the Laxey Wheel, which we talk about further on in this guide! This is also the stop you’ll need to go to if you’re getting the tram up to Snaefell.
• Groudle Glen Railway
• DERBY CASTLE – At the north of Douglas, the capital and largest town on the island, lies the Derby Castle stop. This takes you on a walk along the beach until you reach attractions such as Bushy’s, fairground rides and the harbour. If you was to turn right around halfway along this walk, you will eventually come to the TT paddock and grandstand, which is always full of life whether it is or isn’t race day!

Snaefell Mountain Railway:

The stops on the snaefell mountain railway are –.

• THE BUNGALOW – Another spectacular vantage point of the Isle of Man TT course where you can watch the racers tear up the mountain section. As well as this you can go and show your appreciation for TT and road racing legend Joey Dunlop at his memorial statue over-looking the course.
• SNAEFELL – At the highest mountain on the Isle of Man, you will find a café, the station and a number of communication masts, not to mention the breath-taking views that come with it. On a clear day it is said you can see England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, so try and head up there when the sun’s out if you can!

Isle of Man Steam Railway:

The stops on the isle of man steam railway are –.

• Port Soderick
• CASTLETOWN –About halfway down the IOM Steam Railway lies Castle Rushen, an iconic part of the Isle of Man’s history. Castletown is another potential viewing point to watch the races on TT day!
• Port St. Mary
• PORT ERIN – A small seaside village with a very calm feel to it, the Fish Hatchery, Milner’s Tower, the Railway Museum and Victoria Square all add to the quaint yet homely feel.

Douglas Bay Horse Tramway:

As you may have noticed from the name and the images, the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway is rather different to the other people carriers previously mentioned. The only 19th-century original horse-drawn passenger tramway in the world, runs the full length of the seafront promenades of Douglas.

The stops on the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway are –

• DERBY CASTLE

The second best way to travel… The first is on a motorbike, of course!

Visit Sir Norman’s bar

Servicing handcrafted burgers, delicious flatbreads, sharing platters and great wines..

Location: The Sefton, Harris Promenade, Douglas, IM1 2RW, Isle of Man

Opening hours: 10.00am – 12.00am If you’re looking for a lively bar with good food and sea views look no further than Sir Norman’s on Douglas seafront. At the door you will be greeted by a statue of none other than legendary Sir Norman Wisdom himself, during race weeks it is filled with bikers and celebrities alike. Fancy some fresh air? Grab a seat outside Sir Norman’s and enjoy the endless sea views of Douglas Bay and beyond.

As well as the atmosphere, the food is great to! The menu offers a variety of fish, pies, meats, steaks, flatbreads, salads and vegetarian dishes, so you’ll be spoilt for choice!

There is also a great value meal deal offering any two courses and a drink for £20, you can then add a third course for just £2.50, bargain! Thirsty? It is not just traditional pints and spirits served at Sir Norman’s, an extensive wine list is available with a fine selection.

Having visited Sir Norman’s twice during the 2018 TT we were lucky enough to spot comedian Ross Noble and racing legends Steve Parrish and Carl Fogarty enjoying a drink. So when you visit, keep an eye out for familiar faces!

It is not only a great place to visit during the racing fortnight; Sir Norman’s is the perfect pre & post theatre location with direct access to the Gaiety Theatre and Villa Marina.

“As you get older three things happen. The first is your memory goes, and I can’t remember the other two.” –   Sir Norman Wisdom, OBE

Visit the Isle of Man Motor Museum

A collection of over 400 unique exhibits from around the world..

Location: Isle of Man Motor Museum, Jurby, Isle of Man, IM7 3BD

Entrance fee: Adult £12.50 each, Child £6.50 each, Concessions £11.50 each (Reduced group rates are available)

Watching the latest machinery hurtle around the Mountain Course is thrilling and somewhat mind-blowing, so on an off-day, why not go back in time and learn about the history of the great machines and see some gems of the past? The privately owned Isle of Man Motor Museum is home to over 400 vehicles in the north of the island. Not only those with two wheels are on show, vintage cars, steam cars and larger vehicles such as fire engines and hovercrafts feature in the purposely designed former RAF Jurby site.

You will find out about the history of each vehicle and how it came to end up in the Isle of Man Motor Museum. The owner of the museum is almost always on site and on hand to answer any questions you may have about the vehicles. Many vehicles were assembled by Denis and Darren Cunningham and the museum was fully funded by them.

The Cunningham Collection within the museum is not to be missed, with special family stories attached to each vehicle and each having their own story. As well as the older, vintage vehicles, modern motorbikes and those that have featured in the TT are also on show for you viewing pleasure. With many describing it as the best transport museum they have visited, this really is a petrol heads idea of heaven.

Don’t worry if you’re feeling peckish but aren’t finished at the museum, you can take a break and go over to the Guardroom cafe and re-enter the museum to continue your visit!

‘A petrolhead’s paradise.’

Hooded Ram Festival

The home of bands and bike stunts.

Location: Bottleneck Car Park, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 2AY

Entrance fee: Varies dependent on the night.

Located in the Bottleneck car park, the former home of the Bushy’s Beer tent, the Hooded Ram Festival lasts the length of the TT fortnight and is the place to go for a cocktail of live music and motorcycle stunts. The Hooded Ram Festival plays host to local bands from around the Isle of Man, with some bigger named headline acts, such as Scouting for Girls and Fun Loving Criminal featuring at the 2018 festival.

The seafront venue has an impressive capacity of 2,800, with the price of tickets for headline nights being £27.50 and most other nights it’s free to enter. It is not just great music and impressive bike skills on offer at the Hooded Ram; a state-of-the-art bar capable of pouring over 350 pints per minute is featured, meaning you’ll never get thirsty!

If the TT still hasn’t quite given you the motorcycle fix you’re looking for, there are a number of motorcycle stunt shows on offer at the Hooded Ram Festival which will be sure to leave you gobsmacked and begging for more, check it out!

See it for yourself!

Manx Basking Shark Watch

The isle of man is a basking shark hotspot.

Location: Southern and Southwestern coast of the Isle of Man Probably not how you expected to spend your time at the TT, although if the weather is good and the sky is clear this is a relaxing and rewarding exercise. Remarkably, the sharks are normally spotted within 1km of the shore.

There is no right place to go on the coast to guarantee to see a basking shark, although the Manx Basking Shark Watch website has reports of recent sightings and where they took place. From this data, the southern and southwestern coast of the island are giving you a good chance to see the second-largest living shark.

Places that have been recommended due to huge amounts of plankton attracting basking sharks are Niarbyl Bay past Dalby, Glen Maye, behind Peel Hill and off Peel Castle, Peel breakwater and Peel headlands.

We wouldn’t let you go on the lookout for basking sharks without some pointers and tips, the prefect day for it would be a sunny day when the seas are calm between mid-May and mid-August. Things to look out for would be divers (who you’ll often find admiring basking sharks), bright flashes of the sun reflecting off of shark’s fins, and use binoculars to be sure it is a shark you’re looking at.

We would also recommend a trip on a WiSE registered tourist boat from Port St Mary, Port Erin or Peel. Whether you are on a cliff or in a boat, seeing a shark out at sea is a wonderful experience and something you should take advantage when visiting the island, as the Isle of Man is probably the best place in the world to watch basking sharks close inshore.

Once you’ve spotted one (or more) head to the website to report your sighting, find out more about the sharks and watch videos from around the Isle of Man!

The basking shark cetorhinus maximus, is the second largest fish in the world.

See the island’s stunning coastline and marine wildlife.

Fancy seeing the beautiful island from a different perspective and revile in the wildlife and nature that comes with the Isle of Man? Head out on a boat trip! There are plenty of different boats and routes for you to take, all stunning and exciting in their own way. From fishing trips to wildlife tours and pleasure cruises, there is sure to be a trip which suites you.

Location: Port St Mary Harbour

Wildlife trip prices start from (per person): £25 for a 2hr wildlife and coastal trip and £30 for a 3hr trip Fishing prices start from (per person): 1 hr – £20, 2hrs – £25, 3hrs – £30, 4hrs – £35 (tackle hire is £5 per trip)

Date and time: Any date and both daytime and evening trips are available

Capactity: 12 passengers

Contact: Bob Taylor on 01624 832761 or 07624 483328

Email: [email protected]

The operators of the ‘Gemini’ are WiSe registered and take the catamaran boat near to marine wildlife hotspots, they knows where you stand the best chance of seeing basking sharks, dolphins and Minke Whales, whilst abiding by the Shark Trusts ‘Basking Shark Code of Conduct’.

The 35 foot ‘Gemini’ is often used for all types of trips, from fishing and admiring wildlife to coastal cruises around the Calf and photography focussed trips. The Gemini is also host to a fishing trip with a difference, if you’d consider yourself as a competitive fisherman this may just be for you. The Species Fishing Trip aboard the ‘Gemini’ is a competition for the most species caught by an individual, why not give it a go? As well as species fishing, the crew can take you:

• Reef Fishing
• Occasional Wreck Fishing
• Tope trips (in season)

Get in touch with Bob using the contact details above to book your trip!

Location: Raglan Pier, Old Breakwater Road, Port Erin, Isle of Man, IM9 6JA

2hr Calf of Man Round Trips (per person): Adult (age 10+) £20, Children £10, Infants (aged 5 and under) £5 Drop off/pick up on Calf of Man (30 minutes each way and up to 5 hours ashore depending on tides): £25 per person same day drop off and pick up (£15 for children under 10 years of age), £30 per person overnight drop off and pick up (£20 for children under 10 years of age)

Date and time: May to September

Contact: Chris on 07624 322765 or Jason on 07624 480682

Email: [email protected]

Sailing from Port Erin, the “Shona” is an offshore 27 that will take you on Wildlife trips, sailings to and around the Calf of Man, sailings to Fleshwick Bay and sailings around Port Erin bay. Whilst on board you could see a great range of sea life such as seals and dolphins. The Calf of Man is a small island in the care of Manx National Heritage.

It is the perfect location for birdwatchers to visit, with a spectacular range of species of bird, including seabirds such as Manx Shearwaters, Kittiwakes, Razorbills and Shags. It is not only wildlife to be admired on board the “Shona”, amazing sights such as the Drinking Dragon and Chicken Rock Lighthouse are to be admired.

Note: All trips are weather dependent and unless pre-arranged a minimum of 4 adults are required for sailings to take place. Check latest sailing information here .

Manx Sea Life Safari:

Location: Breakwater kiosk, Peel, Isle of Man Price per 2 hour trip including lunch at kiosk: Adult £40, Childrem (up to 16 years) £20

Date and time: Any date, 11am to 1pm or 2pm to 4pm (weather permitting)

Contact: 01624 843990

Guided commentary will keep you engaged and make sure you do not miss a thing as you sail around the Island’s coast, with a great view of Peel Castle and taking in the stunning caves at Niarbyl Bay. As well as the wonders of the west coast, this area is a wildlife hotspot, with seabirds, seals, dolphins and basking sharks often spotted whilst about the Manx Sea Life Safari. What’s handy about the Manx Sea Life Safari is that you can go to their website , check availability and book your trip there and then. You can also get in touch directly by using the contact details above!

Port St Mary Boat Excursions:

Location: Inner Pier, Port St Mary, Isle of Man Dates and times: Run daily (weather permitting), check Facebook page for times and availability

Contact: 07624 490615

Price for 3 hour trip (per person): Adult £20, Children (under 10) £10

Capacity: Minimum group size 4 people and maximum group size 12 people

Travelling from Port St Mary south to the Calf of Man you are able to take in famous landmarks such as the Drinking Dragon and Sugarloaf Rock. Like the other boat trips, it is more than likely you will witness wildlife such as seabirds, seals, dolphins and basking sharks in their natural habitat.

This boat will take you to the Calf of Man, where you have two hours to get off and explore the island, checking out the famous lighthouses and wildlife that comes with the Calf of Man. The boat will then take you back to Port St Mary. Port St Mary Excursions also offer the chance to go on special fishing and bird-watching trips upon request.

Check out their Facebook page to keep up to date with what’s going on and the time and availability of trips.

“Somewhere, beyond the sea…” – Frank Sinatra

The Trackside Bar

Trackside viewing from an open air beer-garden..

Location: TT Grandstand, Glencrutchery Road, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM2 6DA, (adjacent to Glencrutchery Road)

Open: Throughout the Isle of Man TT, Classic TT, Manx GP and Festival of Motorcycling

What’s better than watching road racing at the Isle of Man? Watching the road racing at the Isle of Man at a bespoke bar structure which overlooks the course!

The Trackside bar is the perfect location to watch racers coming past the paddock, with a drink in your hand and the sun on your face. What happens when there is no racing? Don’t worry about that, there is a small stage where live bands from the island perform, large TV’s with race highlights being shown as well as your favourite motorcycle movies. There is a certain buzz about the place that will guarantee you have a good time!

If you fancy getting a view of the action from above, the VIP area is for you. Here you can watch the races from an upper deck which gives you a great view of the road and the grandstand. A range of premium beers, wines and spirits are sold, if you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter you can always grab a soft drink or even a quality Melitta coffee. If you’re feeling peckish whilst at The Trackside, Bella Pizzas are sold and come highly recommended by us here at Devitt!

“The Trackside will become a hub of activity for race fans and will develop into a TT landmark destination in its own right.”

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Wildlife in and around the Isle of Man

Want to learn more about a native  species or habitat or tips on how to  garden for wildlife ? Our wildlife information pages have what you're looking for. If you're searching for perfect places to see wildlife, take a look at our  places to visit  page.

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Festival promotes diversity of Manx marine life

A two-day festival in the south of the island has been designed to showcase the "diversity and beauty" of marine life "on our doorstep", a conservation charity has said.

The annual Festival of the Sea is set to take place at the Port Erin Breakwater near to the site of the former marine laboratory.

Organised by the Manx Wildlife Trust, the event features large tanks of "critters", including as cat sharks, starfish, sea slugs, crabs and sponges.

Marine officer Lara Howe said it was also an opportunity to highlight the trust's work and "explain how we can look after our oceans together".

Thousands of people are expected to visit the festival to see the marine creatures and seaweeds gathered by a team from Discover Diving in the days before the event.

Dr Howe said it was an opportunity to see "what is under the water if you're not much of a swimmer, snorkeler or or diver".

She said: "Hopefully people will realise how rich and diverse our marine life is around the island and understand you don’t have to go to far flung places to see amazing creatures that are right on our door step."

The festival will also explore different ways that human activities impact life in the sea, such as chemical and plastic pollution.

Dr Howe said the marine tanks and other activities, including a treasure hunt and interactive games, would begin conversations about how to have "respect for sea".

"Hopefully people will leaving thinking about how they can do their bit to protect the beautiful wildlife they've just seen in our tanks", she added.

The 2024 festival runs between 10:00 and 16:00 BST on Saturday and Sunday and the funds raised through the entry fee will go towards supporting Manx wildlife for the future.

Why not follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X ? You can also send story ideas to [email protected]

More on this story

• 'Seal sitters' wanted to look after resting pups
• Opening of woodland a landmark day, charity says
• Manx Wildlife Trust seeks new woodland rangers

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Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Sea Life Safari Tour

Updated June 3, 2024 Posted April 9, 2020

Tour Details

• Admission is required and not included with this program.

About the Tour

Join us for a 90-minute scenic eco-boat cruise around our local estuary. Be a part of citizen science, and observe data collection in action, as we perform a net pull and conduct a “show and tell” onboard of sea creatures found in the grass beds and sand flats of the bay. Get your feet wet at a local shell island and collect seashells.* See local wildlife above and below the water!

*Island stop may be canceled due to weather or inaccessibility, and boat routes may be altered by captain at any time.

Become a Member & Save

Members Receive Discounts on Most Experiences & More

Ticket Times & Information

• Times vary seasonally.
• Please book online and select your date of visit to view times, availability, and pricing.
• Space is limited. Reservations are required, but walk-ins available if the trip is not already full. For further information, call 727-441-1790 X 0.

Please Note:  Tickets are non-refundable. Program can be cancelled due to weather conditions, or not meeting the minimum passenger limit. In these 2 scenarios, please visit the guest services counter to learn about available options. Timed tickets are only valid for the dates listed on your order. Be sure to check your booking times, allow enough time and avoid scheduling conflicts when selecting multiple programs. All programs and prices are subject to change. Seasonal rates, restrictions, and blackout dates may apply. Admission is required and not included with this program.

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How to spend a weekend on the Isle of Man

Alone in the Irish Sea, the Celtic island promises plenty beyond the roar of its famous racing circuit, from wooded glens and rich birdlife to mysterious ruins alive with mythical tales.

An atmosphere of otherness pervades the Isle of Man. A green jewel glittering in the Irish Sea, the island is often shrouded in mist — a veil said to have been cast as a protective cloak by the sea god Manannán, according to Manx mythology. Lift the veil on this Celtic nation and you’ll find tales of legends run even deeper; green glens, crumbling castles and a dramatic coastline are the setting for a cast of characters from demon dogs to hairy ogres. Even today, locals pause to greet the ‘Little People’ said to live beneath the Fairy Bridge between Port Erin and Douglas — and warn that you’d be wise to join in the superstition.

The ruins of once-mighty fortresses feature at coastal settlements like Peel and Castletown, while inland the island is a patchwork of emerald fields, wooded vales and time-warp villages. You’ll also find some of the darkest night skies in the British Isles, making the Isle of Man a spectacular place to stargaze. It all adds up to a scene of sylvan serenity — duly torn apart each May, of course, when the Isle   of Man TT race rips through the island’s roads.

Day one: foraging & folklore

Morning Immerse yourself in the Manx countryside by eating its precious bounty, straight from the hedgerows. Head to the picturesque coastal village of Port Erin to meet Pippa Lovell, chef behind the acclaimed restaurant Versa , and let her lead you on a foraging tour. Versa’s ethos is all about sustainability, and, where possible, hand-foraged. This means the menu changes daily according to what’s available, which might include rock samphire, blackberries and rosehips. Learn how local ingredients can be used as substitutes for exotic flavours   — hogweed seeds are a dead ringer for cardamom, while gorse flowers give a note of coconut. Head back to Versa for a brunch using the ingredients you’ve just foraged.

Afternoon After brunch, spend more time exploring the southwest corner of the island, beginning at Cregneash . At this living museum, indigenous Manx breeds such as four-horned Loaghtan sheep laze outside crofter’s cottages, reconstructed to show what life was like for the hardy souls who eked out a living here in the 19th century. From here it’s a 50-minute drive to Glen Auldyn, a pretty wooded valley which echoes with fairy folklore. It’s said that an elfin prince fell in love with a human girl here, and as punishment was transformed into the hairy Fynoderee. Also worth a visit is the Cashtal yn Ard, a remarkably well preserved tomb dating back to 2000 BC with fine views across the water to Cumbria.

Evening The legend of Glen Auldyn is kept alive at The Fynoderee Distillery in the nearby town of Ramsey. Head here to try their superb range of gins, flavoured with botanicals from the Manx countryside — sloes, rosehips, rowanberries — while learning from owners Paul and Tiffany Kerruish about the island’s folklore. Their spirits are inspired by the seasons; the winter gin is infused with juniper, once native to Glen Auldyn and now being reintroduced. Having savoured the produce of the countryside, turn your attention to the coast, with dinner at Ramsey’s Good Stuff . At this laid-back restaurant, pride of place on the menu goes to the catch of the day, with bass, mullet and dogfish among the regular haul.  

Day two: wheels & wine

Morning Each spring, the atmosphere on the Isle of Man ratchets up to full throttle with the staging of the Isle of Man TT. The ‘Tourist Trophy’ began life in 1907, and is the oldest motorcycle race in the world — and among the most dangerous, with fatalities, tragically, an all-too-common occurrence.   Get a taste for the thrill of the race in a much safer setting, sitting on the back of a motorised trike as you whizz around the course at speeds much slower than those seen in the race itself, but still not exactly pedestrian. IOM Trike Tours’ drivers are fonts of knowledge about the race and the island, will go as fast or slow as you want, and stop off for photos during the spectacular mountain sections.  

Afternoon Back in Douglas, enjoy lunch at Little Fish Café , where the fruits of the Isle of Man coast — queen scallops, haddock, mackerel — are whipped up into tacos, chowders and curries. Then, having recovered from the white-knuckle trike tour, enjoy a more sedate ride on the Manx Electric Railway , which has been ferrying passengers around the island since 1893. Ride in a vintage Victorian carriage, then jump off at the coastal village of Laxey, where the world’s largest waterwheel presides over the ruins of an old mine and the panorama of Glen Mooar Valley. Take an hour or two to explore, then board the tramway again, ascending to Snaefell, Man’s highest peak.  

Evening Board the train back to Douglas and steep yourself in the island’s history at the Manx Museum. See tools used by the hunter-gatherers who lived here in Mesolithic times, marvel at glittering hoards left by the Vikings, and learn about the Tynwald, the island’s parliament, one of the oldest in the world. Culturally sated, head to the Rovers Return, the oldest pub in Douglas, to sample ales from local brewery Bushy’s . Keep an eye out for the mural of Joey Dunlop, who won a record 26 races at the Isle of Man TT. Wine Down is the place for dinner, where excellent local produce is paired with an extensive wine list; the crab, lobster and prawn cocktail comes highly recommended, as does the steak pie.  

Top five outdoor activities on the Isle of Man

1. Laxey to King Orry’s Grave Walk Beginning at Laxey’s quaint tram station, this walk winds up the pleasingly-named Ham and Egg Terrace, beneath the shadow of the Great Laxey Wheel and past rusting relics of the mining age, to King Orry’s Grave, a neolithic tomb said to harbour a great Manx king.

2. Raad Daawheeyl Cycle Route Two modern cycling greats, Mark Cavendish and Peter Kennaugh, hail from the Isle of Man. See why it’s a cyclist’s paradise on this moderate route, which begins at Ramsey’s pier and takes in   a dramatic lighthouse at   the Point of Ayre.

3. Wildlife spotting The island’s wildlife includes an abundance of guillemots, kittiwakes and puffins, which can be viewed nesting on the cliffs around Castletown and Langness. The most remarkable sight is an unlikely one: wild wallabies roam the Curraghs wetlands, descendants   of a captive pair which escaped in the 1970s.

4. Kayaking Riddled with coves, caves and bays, the island’s craggy coastline is best explored up close on a kayaking adventure. Sea Kayaking Isle of Man offer a range of tours for people of all abilities.

5. Port St Mary to Port Erin Hike Beginning in the fishing village of Port St Mary, this trail follows a coastal path up to a stunning feature known as The Chasms, where great fissures seem to split the cliff in two. It also takes in the open-air folk museum at Cregneash.

Four ways to explore manx mythology

1. Calf Sound The Manx equivalent of mermaids is Ben Varrey, a half-fish, half-woman creature said to lounge on rocks, casting flirtatious glances at passing fishermen. Like the mermaid myth (which has often been attributed to sightings of mammals such as manatees and dugongs), the Ben Varrey may have its origins in the island’s seal population. You can spot the seals sunbathing on the islet of Kitterland, or take a boat trip into the Calf Sound with Manx Sea Life Safari .

2. The Fairy Bridges Tales of fairies on the Isle of Man — known locally as ‘Little People’ or ‘Themselves’ — go back centuries. They have much in common with the fairies of other Celtic mythologies, being small, clad in green jackets and red caps, and alternately benevolent and mischievous. In addition to the famous Fairy Bridge on the main road from Douglas to Port Erin, there’s another bridge, on a footpath between Oakhill and Kewaigue. You’ll often find trinkets left for the fairies by local children.  

3. St Trinian’s Church The local variation on the boggart — a malevolent, shapeshifting spirit who likes to wreak havoc — is known as the Buggane, said to have lived on Greeba Mountain in the centre of the island. A distinctly unholy creature, it objected fiercely to the construction of nearby St Trinian’s Church, and repeatedly tore off the roof. You can visit the church, still roofless, just off the road between Douglas and Peel.  

4. Peel Castle Tales of vast, ghostly black dogs with eyes that glow like hot coals are a common fixture in British folklore, and the Manx incarnation, the Moddey Dhoo, is said to stalk the grounds of Peel Castle, an atmospheric fortification built by the Vikings in the 11th century. The ruins are worth a visit, with an informative audio guide recounting the castle’s story, from the Moddey Dhoo to archaeological finds such as the Pagan Lady, buried here with ornate jewellery.  

Where to stay

Calf of Man Bird Observatory The Calf of Man is a tiny island off the south coast and a protected reserve   for seabirds including kittiwakes, razorbills and the unique Manx shearwater. Overnight visitors can   stay at the on-site Bird Observatory, a comfortable cottage perfect for exploring the island’s wilderness. From £25, room only.

Knockaloe Beg Farm Cosy wooden shepherd’s huts, set in an orchard behind a peaceful farm in the countryside near Peel, are perfect for stargazing. Sit back in your wood-fired cedar hot tub and watch the constellations take shape in the inky-black night sky — among the darkest in the British Isles. From £69, room only. Halvard Hotel Built in 2018, the Halvard is perhaps the island’s most elegant hotel, and has a classic look, from its neoclassical facade and   art deco signage to its dimly lit, luxurious suites. The location’s hard to beat, too, on the waterfront in Douglas and a short walk from the Manx Museum. From £120, B & B.

How to do it

Steam Packet operates ferry sailings to Douglas from Liverpool and Heysham, as well as from Dublin and Belfast. Isle of Man Airport, in the south of the island, is served by flights from airports including Belfast, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Gatwick and Manchester.

Published in the Jan/Feb 2023 issue of   National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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Zhukovsky International Airport, formerly known as Ramenskoye Airport or Zhukovsky Airfield - international airport, located in Moscow Oblast, Russia 36 km southeast of central Moscow, in the town of Zhukovsky, a few kilometers southeast of the old Bykovo Airport. After its reconstruction in 2014–2016, Zhukovsky International Airport was officially opened on 30 May 2016. The declared capacity of the new airport was 4 million passengers per year.

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Sea 2 Sea Safari 2

Re: sea 2 sea safari 2.

Post by Anthony Cuozzo » Tue Jun 23, 2020 3:42 pm

Post by manxvair » Tue Jun 23, 2020 4:02 pm

Anthony Cuozzo wrote: Mike... I'm working on shipping my buggy out. Not sure if my daughter in Oceanside can fit it in her garage. Any options in case it beats me there? Is there a go/no go cut off date? I need to book a flight and such... Thanks! Cooz

Post by Anthony Cuozzo » Tue Jun 23, 2020 4:12 pm

Post by manxvair » Tue Jun 23, 2020 4:21 pm

Anthony Cuozzo wrote: I'm leaning toward reliable for shipping .. any feedback? Good or bad?

Post by Anthony Cuozzo » Tue Jun 23, 2020 4:48 pm

Post by manxvair » Wed Jun 24, 2020 4:56 am

Anthony Cuozzo wrote: Do you have a point of contact?...

Post by manxvair » Sun Jun 28, 2020 9:09 pm

Post by manxvair » Fri Jul 03, 2020 3:24 pm

Post by manxvair » Thu Jul 09, 2020 4:59 am

manxvair wrote: If you are thinking of taking on this adventure with us, 1 of the things you should know is the MPG, safe range of your vehicle, we would like to maintain a speed of around 65 MPH for extended periods of time on the highway. The fuel stops each day are based off of this information.

Post by jsturtlebuggy » Thu Aug 13, 2020 3:32 am

Post by manxvair » Thu Aug 13, 2020 5:20 am

jsturtlebuggy wrote: I just read that the Manx on the Banx is not going to be an official event. Are there still people that want to travel to the non event together as a group?

Post by manxvair » Sat Aug 15, 2020 3:57 am

Post by jhkinca » Thu Aug 20, 2020 5:33 pm

Anthony Cuozzo wrote: Mike... I'm working on shipping my buggy out. Not sure if my daughter in Oceanside can fit it in her garage. Any options in case it beats me there? Is there a go/no go cut off date? I need to book a flight and such... Thanks! Cooz Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

Post by Anthony Cuozzo » Thu Aug 20, 2020 5:44 pm

Post by jsturtlebuggy » Mon Aug 24, 2020 3:40 pm

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