The jewel of the Irish Sea offers beauty and culture

[wlm_nonmember]
News stories are free to read. Click here for full access to all the features, articles and archive from only £8.99.
[/wlm_nonmember]
The horse tramway runs the length of the promenade
The horse tramway runs the length of the promenade

At the heart of the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man is a stunningly beautiful destination, perfect for groups looking for a relaxing break amid its tranquil shores.

Douglas, the island’s capital, is a unique blend of holiday resort, finance centre and working harbour, offering visitors a wealth of things to do.

The impressive two-mile sweep of Douglas Bay is home to a vibrant and charismatic town. The regeneration of the town’s inner harbour has seen the creation of a yacht marina and pleasant quayside area.

There is plenty to do with regards to sightseeing and attractions. The Gaiety Theatre is one of the finest examples in the British Isles of the work of Victorian architect Frank Matcham. It is located next to the Villa Marina on Douglas Promenade and together the complex presents a year-round programme of film, art, music, comedy and theatre. The centre has its own coach parking and offers concessions for drivers and the group organiser.

In the heart of Douglas is the Manx Museum, the national museum and art gallery for the island. The award-winning exhibition, Story of Mann, is introduced at the museum and covers the island’s Viking, Celtic and medieval heritage.

The Douglas Horse Trams are the world’s oldest surviving horse trams, dating from 1876. The tramway runs the length of the promenade and links with the Electric Railway terminus at the north end and to the Sea Terminal at the south end.

Other suggested attractions include Okells Brewery Tours, with on-site coach parking and driver/ guide concessions; tours of the Tynwald buildings, the Parliament of the Isle of Man; and the Groudle Glen Railway, two miles north of Douglas.

Coach parking is available at various places along Douglas Promenade.

There are length and weight restrictions for coaches on the island; these can be found by visiting the following link: https://tinyurl.com/7fw3vmk

For more information on tourism and travel trade on the Isle of Man, email [email protected] or ring 01624 686888. For ferry enquiries, email iom. [email protected]