Make the most of your visit to The Isle of Man!
Pro tip: Before arriving to the Island, buy a Go explore card (also available from the Sea Terminal Welcome Centre in Douglas, Airport or any ticket station).
Already have a UK Heritage card? You can use it on the Isle of Man. Alternatively, click here to buy a Go Heritage card from Manx National Heritage (also available from any heritage site, or Sea Terminal Welcome Centre in Douglas).
Day 1 - Explore The South
Morning:
- Start Your Day at Douglas Railway Station (you can take any bus going from the beach side at the bottom of Mona Drive- or walk!): Catch the historic steam train departing around 9:50 AM from Douglas. Enjoy the scenic journey along the Isle of Man Steam Railway line to Castletown, which takes about 45 minutes.
Late Morning:
- Explore Castletown - The Ancient Capital: Once you arrive, visit Castle Rushen, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Take time to wander the charming streets and perhaps visit the Old Grammar School and the Nautical Museum.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local café in Castletown. Try out The George for a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes or pop into a local pub for some hearty fare.
Early Afternoon:
- Head to Port Erin: Continue your steam railway journey to Port Erin, a picturesque coastal village. Enjoy the stunning views as you travel along the southern tip of the island. The Whistlestop Coffee Shop is great for a quick drink and bite to eat. Or head down to the beach where you can delight in a Davison's Manx Ice Cream! Love water sports? Port Erin is a favourite for activities such as paddleboarding, sailing, or kayaking.
Mid Afternoon:
- Visit Cregneash Village: Take a short bus or taxi ride to Cregneash, where you can explore this living museum that showcases traditional Manx life. Wander through the historic cottages and meet the native Loaghtan sheep.
Late Afternoon:
- Watch the Sunset at The Sound: Finish your day with a visit to The Sound, just a short distance from Cregneash. It's one of the best spots on the island for a spectacular sunset with views of the Calf of Man.
Dinner:
Return to Douglas: Catch an evening steam train back to Douglas, taking in the serene night views to end your day delightfully with a meal in the Welbeck Hotel Conservatory Restaurant - or the Bar, wherever you feel most comfortable!
This itinerary combines the joy of train travel with visits to some of the Isle of Man's iconic heritage sites, providing a rich and memorable experience.
Day 2 - Explore the North
Morning:
- Walk to Derby Castle Terminal: Start your day by walking to the Derby Castle tram terminal from the Welbeck Hotel & Restaurant, which is about a 20-minute walk along the beautiful Douglas promenade. Alternatively, at the bottom of Empress Drive, there is a bus every 15 minutes or so- or catch the horse tram!
- Catch the Electric Tram: Board the Manx Electric Railway heading north at around 9:40 AM. Enjoy the picturesque coastal views as you journey towards Laxey.
Late Morning:
- Explore Laxey: Upon arrival, visit the iconic Laxey Wheel. Spend time viewing this engineering marvel and learning about its history. You can also explore the nearby mining heritage sites.
Lunch:
- Dine at a local café in Laxey. The Laxey Glen Mills, Laxey Glen, The Shed & Laxey Beach Café (on Laxey beach front) and nearby eateries offer delicious meals and a quaint atmosphere.
Early Afternoon:
- Ride to Snaefell Mountain: Take the Snaefell Mountain Railway from Laxey, which offers a unique climb to the island's highest point. Enjoy panoramic views from the top.
Mid Afternoon:
- Travel to Ramsey: Descend back to Laxey and rejoin the Manx Electric Railway for a scenic ride to Ramsey. Explore the town's attractive parks, such as Mooragh Park, or enjoy shopping at local boutiques.
Late Afternoon:
- Visit Milntown: If time allows, visit the nearby Milntown Estate and Gardens for a walk through beautifully landscaped gardens and a glimpse of historical architecture. Alternatively, visit the Fynoderee Gin Distillery (neighbour to Ramsey tram station) - book a tour before you go to avoid disappointment!
Dinner:
Return to Douglas: Board the electric tram back to Douglas in the evening, capturing views of the coast as the sun sets.
- Walk Back to Welbeck Hotel & Restaurant: Enjoy a pleasant evening stroll back to your hotel, wrapping up a day filled with scenic tram rides and cultural highlights on the Isle of Man.
Day 3 - Exploring Peel & The West
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Welbeck: Enjoy a hearty breakfast to start your day on the right foot.
- Travel to Peel: From the Welbeck Hotel, head to Douglas bus station or book a taxi for the roughly 30-minute journey to Peel. The bus offers a scenic route across the island.
Late Morning:
- Explore Peel Castle: Begin with a visit to Peel Castle, a stunning historical site located on St Patrick's Isle. Tour the fascinating ruins and learn about its rich history.
Lunch:
- Enjoy lunch at a local spot, such as The Creek Inn, offering great views of Peel Harbour and a hearty, welcoming menu.
Early Afternoon:
- Visit the House of Manannan: This museum offers a journey through the island's Celtic, Viking, and maritime history with engaging exhibits.
Mid Afternoon:
- Relax on Peel Beach: Take a leisurely stroll along Peel's sandy beach or relax and enjoy the sea views. Don't forget to treat yourself to delicious local ice cream!
Late Afternoon: - Peel Marina Walk: Check out Peel Marina, a bustling hub with beautiful boats and a lovely walkway. It's a great spot for people-watching and enjoying the fresh sea air.
Dinner
- Enjoy dinner at The Boatyard- an award-winning restaurant on the quay in Peel. Fancy some great pub grub? Visit The Marine on Peel Sea Front, both known for serving delicious food and offering a cosy dining experience.
Return to the Welbeck Hotel: After your delightful day in Peel, catch a bus or taxi back to Douglas, then enjoy a relaxing evening back at the Welbeck Hotel & Restaurant. This day trip offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation, showcasing some of Peel's best highlights.
Day 4 - A Day Out in Douglas
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Welbeck: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
- Walk along Douglas Promenade: Stroll along the iconic Douglas Promenade, taking in the fresh sea air and the beautiful views of the bay. You can also visit the Sunken Gardens along the way.
- Visit the Manx Museum: Head to the Manx Museum for a fascinating insight into the island's history, culture, and heritage. It's an ideal spot to start understanding the Isle of Man's past.
Lunch:
- Have a cosy lunch at one of the great restaurants on the quay.
Early Afternoon:
- Explore Douglas Shopping Area: Spend some time shopping in Douglas's high street stores and unique local boutiques. Don't miss discovering local crafts and souvenirs.
Mid Afternoon:
- Visit the Douglas Head: Enjoy panoramic views of the harbour and town from Douglas Head. It's a great photo opportunity and a peaceful spot to relax.
Late Afternoon:
- Enjoy the Gaiety Theatre: If there's a performance or guided tour available, experience the elegance of this beautifully restored Victorian theatre.
Dinner:
- Have dinner at Aura, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere and fantastic Asian cuisine.
Evening:
- Relax at a Traditional Pub: End your day at one of Douglas's traditional pubs, such as The Terminus Tavern, Queens or HQ Bar. Enjoy a drink while soaking up the local culture and perhaps listening to some live music. This itinerary provides a perfect balance of cultural experiences, leisure, and local flavours, all within the vibrant city of Douglas.
Day 5 - Action packed adventure!
Morning:
- Travel to Curraghs Wildlife Park: From the Welbeck Hotel, start your day by driving or taking a bus to Curraghs Wildlife Park in Ballaugh, which takes about 45 minutes. Enjoy a morning filled with animal adventures and exploration in themed habitats.
Lunch:
- Enjoy a picnic within the park or visit the family-friendly café within the park for a quick lunch.
Early Afternoon:
- Head to Onchan Pleasure Park: Leave Curraghs Wildlife Park and drive or take a taxi back towards Douglas to Onchan, approximately a 30-minute journey. Kids can enjoy activities like crazy golf and bumper boats.
Mid Afternoon:
- Visit The Manx Fun Farm: If your schedule allows, travel to The Manx Fun Farm in Maughold, about 20 minutes by car. This place offers indoor and outdoor attractions such as bowling, laser tag, and a play area.
When driving back to Douglas why not enjoying Molly Quirk's Glen with the kids? It can be a delightful experience, offering a blend of adventure and tranquility. Here's how to make the most of it with your little ones:
Nature Walks: Take the kids on a gentle nature walk through the glen. The trails are suitable for children and provide an opportunity to explore the outdoors while learning about the plants and wildlife that call the glen home.
Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt to make the visit more interactive and fun. Look for items like specific leaves, different types of flowers, or signs of local wildlife.
Picnic Adventure: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the midst of nature. There are plenty of spots to sit and relax, where the kids can also have the freedom to play.
Wildlife Spotting: Encourage the children to spot birds and other small animals. Bring along a pair of binoculars and a guidebook to make this activity even more engaging
Storytelling: Use the magical setting as a backdrop for storytelling. Create your own adventures, or tell tales inspired by the surrounding woods and streams.
Photography Fun: If your children enjoy photography, let them take pictures of their favourite spots and discoveries within the glen.
Educational Opportunity: Teach the kids about the ecosystem and the importance of preserving natural areas like Molly Quirk's Glen, fostering an early appreciation for the environment. Visiting Molly Quirk's Glen with kids provides a stimulating environment filled with discovery and learning, making it a perfect family outing on the Isle of Man.
The Welbeck Hotel
Mona Drive, Off Central Promenade
Douglas, Isle of Man, IM2 4LF
Tel : +44 (0)1624 675663
Email : mail@welbeckhotel.com
