The Isle of Man is an autonomous Island that is part of the British Iles. It lies between Great Britain and Ireland in the Irish Sea. It is a British Crown Dependency meaning that despite not being part of the UK the island’s foreign affairs and security are still in the hands of the British. The island is most famous internationally for the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (or TT), considered one of the greatest motorcycling event in the world. The event attracts motor racing fans from around the globe and is the tourism highlight of the year. Yet the island has so much more to offer for those not interested in motorcycling, rugged coastline and quaint villages are particularly appealing too holidaymakers as well as all the watersports on offer. The airport offers regular flights to both the British and Irish mainland but perhaps the most popular way to reach the island if by the fast ferry from either Belfast or Liverpool. Many travelers will visit these destinations as well as the Isle of man, check out Wimdu’s list of apartments in Liverpool and bed and breakfasts in Belfast.
Where to Stay
A cottage is the most popular form of accommodation on the island. With only one main town travelers take advantage of the vast countryside where the cottages are more frequented. A cottage on the Isle of Man are often luxurious but can range in price based on location and amenities available. It is very advisable that you rent a car to get from your cottage around the island, as the cottage can often be located in the more remote areas of the island. Holiday cottages are the most popular form of accommodation on the British mainland too. Why not have a look at some of our cottages in Devon and apartments in Cornwall.Fun Facts
- English is spoken on the Isle of Man but there is another language spoken on the island – Manx!
- World famous Top Gear Jeremy Clarkson owns a house on the Isle of Man!
- The Isle of Man’s motto is in Latin – in English it means ‘Whichever way you throw me, I shall stand’!
- Two thirds of pop group The BeeGees were born on the Isle of Man!
- There is a special breed of cat native to the Isle of Man!
What to see and do on the Isle of Man
For those who prefer the hustle and bustle of town centres will be well served in Douglas, the island’s capital. Over half the population live in this town and it is the most popular area of the island for visitors. Douglas is home to many of the UK’s biggest shops and you’ll find a wide range of shopping opportunities in the town. Douglas’s bar and restaurant scene is alive and kicking – Manx food is considered to be excellent – fish and chips are popular and you’ll find several types of cheese that are made on the island too!Walking is a popular pastime for tourists visiting the island and the landscape is famed for its lovely coastline and rolling hills. During the summer a nice activity is to take the tram to the islands highest point – Snaefell. The great thing about the top of this hill you can see the ‘6 Kingdoms’ – Scotland, Wales, England, Ireland, the Isle of Man and Heaven! It’s a very unique place to be! Another good summer activity is riding the Laxey Wheel waterwheel that has been restored. You can find cottages in the countryside that often prove a more desirable option to staying in one of the island’s towns, but there are advantages to a town apartment such as the proximity to the best attractions and beaches.
