The annual TT races take place every year in the Isle of Man and the island is perhaps best known as a bikers’ paradise, but although large numbers of bikers regularly congregate here, keen to test their nerves on the challenging network of roads around the island, the island has plenty on offer to keep children of all ages amused. So before you book your Isle of Man flights, find out what family attractions you should add to your itinerary.
Educational things to do with the kids on the Isle of Man
Peel Castle
Everyone loves a castle and magnificent Peel Castle is no exception to the rule. The castle is built on St Patrick’s Isle, overlooking Peel Harbour, and parts of the Round Tower date back to the 10th century. There is a spooky crypt and a resident ghost, a 16th century Great Garrison Hall, and some fabulous landscaped grounds where on a fine day you can enjoy spectacular views while eating your picnic.
Castle Rushen
Horrible history is brought to glorious life when you visit Castle Rushen, a wonderfully preserved medieval castle and fortress in Castletown, the original capital city of the island. Peer down into the ’murder holes’ in the gatehouse, explore the ‘cells’, and take a trip back in time inside the medieval kitchen.
The House of Manannan
The Isle of Man has a fascinating heritage steeped in folklore and myths and the island’s sea god, Manannan, will help you discover more about the Isle of Man’s Viking, Celtic and seafaring past. Explore a Viking longship, see inside a Celtic roundhouse, and hear more about the superstitions of the Manx fishermen and their families.
The Great Laxey Wheel and Mines Trail
Otherwise known as ‘Lady Isabella’, the Great Laxey wheel is the largest working waterwheel in the world. Located in the tranquil Glen Mooar Valley, come along to see a working waterwheel in action and learn more about the Laxey Miners; you can even don a miner’s hat and take a trip down a mine shaft!
Railway family activities on the Isle of Man
The Great Laxey Mine Railway
Combine a visit to the Great Laxey Wheel with a ride on the old mine railway. The route is only about half a mile long, but the tiny carriage passes through the longest tunnel on the island and ends at the entrance to the Laxey adit entrance.
Isle of Man Steam Railway
A trip on an old-fashioned steam railway is always good fun, so when you visit the Isle of Man, step back into Victorian times and take a ride on the Isle of Man Steam Railway. The journey between Douglas and Port Erin takes around one hour and passes through some picturesque Manx countryside.
Animal attractions on the Isle of Man
The Manx Wildlife Trust
The Wildlife Trust is a great place to see sea bird colonies, waterfowl and wading birds in their natural habitats; you may also be able to catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins in the waters off the island as you hike around the network of scenic trails within the Trust.
Home of Rest for Old Horses
Come and meet the residents of the Home of Rest for Old Horses—there are more than fifty retired horses and donkeys living out their twilight years on the Isle of Man. You can feed them carrots and apples and find out more about what these loyal animals got up to during their working lives on the island. There is also a café and gift shop.
