On Countryfile this Sunday: Isle of Man

TV & Radio Fields
Broadcast Date: 
Sun, 2012-07-01
Broadcast Info: 
Sunday - 6pm - BBC One

Isle of Man, Photograph: ©Shutterstock

ACTIVITIES 

1. The best way to explore the Island is on horseback, allowing you to discover places inaccessible by car, as you gently travel through secret forests, across rolling hills and lazy stretches of golden coastline. The various equestrian centers are fully accommodating of all riding levels, from complete beginner to expert.
 
2. Why not explore the coastal scenery of the Island by diving in the vivacious waters of the Irish Sea? Aside from the rich abundance of marine life, such as seals, basking sharks, fish and porpoises, the seabed is scattered with shipwrecks and reefs, providing a fascinating experience for visitors.
 
3. The Isle of Man is famous for its motor sporting activities, and what better way to travel along the roads of the Island than by trike, a three-wheeled motorbike? Your driver will take you round some of the best racing courses and iconic landmarks, such as the Ramsey Hairpin and the Bungalow. 
 

Shipwreck, Photograph: ©Shutterstock

GARDENS AND NATURE RESERVES 

1. The Isle of Man is a hotspot for the second largest fish in the world, the Basking Shark. Rare and beautiful, sightings of these creatures are often reported within a kilometer of the shore, and visitors can see them most vividly from chartered boat trips, allowing an intimate viewpoint without disturbing them in their natural habitat.
 
2. The coastal Ayres National Nature Reserve provides a beautiful spot for rambling across golden beaches and sand dunes. A great place for bird watching, visitors can see gannets, oyster-catchers, skylarks, stonechats, cormorants and ring-plovers, with occasional views of whales, basking sharks and grey seals off the coast.
 
3. Cooildarry is a deep wooded valley in the upper part of Glen Wyllin, brimming with hidden waterfalls, brooks and even an ancient water wheel from past centuries. The Victorians created a pleasure garden there, which has consequently bloomed into a concoction of various fauna, such as oak, chestnut, lime, hazel, hawthorn and Corsican pine. The forest floor is carpeted with primrose, wood anemone, golden saxifrage and bluebells.
 


Stonechat, Photograph: ©Shutterstock

ATTRACTIONS

1.  The Island hosts a network of steam and electric heritage railways, but for a more interesting way to travel, why not take the Douglas Horse Tram for 2 miles along the promenade?  Previous travellers include the Queen, the late Queen Mother and Princess Margaret. 

2.  For art and culture lovers, the Gaiety Theatre boasts a programme of shows, musicals, pantomimes, plays and concerts all year round.  Tours of the theatre are also available in the summer months, and if you’re curious, why not ask about the ghostly lady that haunts seat B14? 

3.  The Isle of Man hosts 8 lighthouses dating back as far as 1818, and built to deter passing boats from the perilous rocks surrounding the Island.  Visitors can walk to these lighthouses, taking in the beautiful scenery of the coastline, while some are open to guests and the public.

Lighthouse, Photograph: ©Shutterstock

TOWNS AND VILLAGES

1. The ancient capital, Castletown, is home to Castle Rushen, the impressive fortress that was once the residence of the Kings and Lords of Mann. Built in 1265, visitors can climb to the roof of the castle, presenting panoramic views of Castletown and beyond. For those brave enough, regular ghost tours lead visitors around the castle, exploring the old prison cells, creaking corridors and haunted folktales!

2.  Port Erin in the South is a perfect desintation for those wanting long walks along sandy beaches and plenty of heritage attractions.  Popular since the Victorian era, the picturesque harbour is home to the Old Grammar School, Nautical Museum and the Old House of Keys, the previous home of the Manx Parliament.

3.  For those with energetic children, Ramsey in the North of the Island is home to several centers for outdoor pursuits, such as watersports and climbing, long stretches of beach, a boating lake, funfair and children's play areas, as well as a wildlife park with animals from across the globe.  

Carousel, Photograph: ©Shutterstock

 

 

 

 

 

 


  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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