While Away On The Isle Of Man

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1: We being our journey and make our way to Chester for our overnight stop. We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner. 

Day 2: After breakfast, we head to the heart of the city of Chester for some free time. A beguiling and elegant destination with each chapter of Chester's history etched into the very fabric of the city. One of the most iconic and fascinating landmarks in Chester are The Rows, a unique architectural treasure that date back 700 years and now home to boutiques, independent shops and restaurants. These stunning two-tiered timber framed galleries create a shopping experience like no other. Wander through this historic setting and explore an array of delightful shops and cosy cafés. We continue our journey to Heysham for our ferry to the Isle of Man. We will arrive at our hotel in time to freshen up before dinner.

Day 3: Our first excursion today takes us on the Manx Electric Railway, a classic tramway that runs along the island’s East Coast to the fishing village of Laxey. On our journey, we will pass through scenic wooded glens, picturesque villages and dramatic coastal scenery, before we board the Snaefell Mountain Railway, the only electric mountain railway in the British Isles. The railway takes us through beautiful landscapes and steep gradients up to the summit where the views  glorious. On a clear day, it is possible to view the entire British Isles. After returning by train to The Bungalow station, we head for the nearby Victory Café, a quirky canteen-style pitstop set in an ex cold-war ‘rotor’ Radar Station overlooking the 31^st Milestone of the iconic Isle of Man TT Racecourse. We tuck into the café’s ‘Pie in the Sky’ before driving back to Laxey for some time at leisure. Perhaps make a visit to The Laxey Wheel, the world’s largest working water wheel and the Isle of Man’s most iconic landmark. 

Day 4: Today we board the Isle of Man Steam Railway. Journey along the stunning southwest coast, passing seaside towns and fishing villages before reaching Port Erin, where we will enjoy a visit to the Port Erin Railway Museum. The museum charts the history of the steam-powered railway from its inception in 1873 to the present day. Inside you will find steam engines and carriages including the royal carriages that carried The Queen and Queen Mother in 1963 and Queen Elizabeth ll in 1972. After leaving the museum, we make the short journey to the protected nature reserve of The Sound. This stunning coastal location is at the island’s very southern tip and is one of the most scenic places in the British Isles. Abundant with wildlife and natural wonders, this area is a hotspot for seals sunbathing on the rocky Kitterland, a small rocky islet. Dolphins and basking sharks also frequent the area. There will be time for lunch and there is an excellent café offering delicious Manx food with stunning panoramic views of the Calf of Man and the surrounding area. After our visit we continue to the traditional fishing port of Peel, the hub of the Isle of Man’s fishing industry. We have time at leisure in the town, perhaps browse the shops, visit the 11^th century castle or maybe explore the House of Manannan, a museum dedicated to the island's rich history and culture with interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and stunning artefacts. 

Day 5: This morning, we follow the Isle of Man’s famous TT racecourse, heading clockwise on the circuit from Douglas via Kirk Michael and Ballaugh towards ‘Royal Ramsey’. Here we visit the Fynoderee Distillery, home of the Spirits of Mann. On arrival, we enjoy a refreshing “Fyn & Tonic” before learning all about the beginnings, of the distillery, and the fascinating Manx folklore that has inspired the name. We then embark on a behind-the-scenes distillery tour and learn about the craft processes involved in making and bottling this award-winning spirits range. We continue on our route and follow the mountain road to a racecourse landmark: The Famous Creg-Ny-Baa pub-restaurant, where we will enjoy a delicious afternoon tea. The Creg-Ny-Baa offers a warm welcome and is famous for its fabulous viewing position on the TT course. We return to Douglas where the remainder of the day is at leisure. The Manx Museum is a top attraction, displaying Viking treasures to wartime memorabilia or perhaps visit the town’s Villa Marina & Gaiety Theatre Complex on the seafront, for a tour of the historic theatre.

Day 6: It’s time to say our farewells to the Isle of Man and make the short transfer to the Port of Douglas and our ferry. On our arrival into Heysham we will continue our journey to our overnight hotel making a stop enroute at Oswaldtwistle Mills. Oswaldtwistle Mills is an award-winning shopping village where you can shop over 100 retailers, dine at one of the four restaurants, browse the gourmet food deli or wander through the garden centre, all at this former weaving mill. We travel on arriving at our hotel in plenty of time to freshen up before dinner.

Day 7: After breakfast, we continue our journey home.

Empress Hotel, Douglas, Isle of Man

Fynoderee Distillery

Peel

Accommodation

Empress Hotel, Douglas, Isle of Man

Situated within a convenient walking distance of Douglas town centre, the Empress Hotel occupies an elegant Victorian building that overlooks Douglas Bay. With modern facilities and stylish interiors there is comfortable lounge, Piano Bar and conservatory. 

All rooms are en suite with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, hairdryer and free Wi-Fi. There is a lift at the hotel.