There's nothing like spending a few days relaxing on the Isle of Man during autumn. It's a great place to escape life's hustle and bustle. But before you head over here, make sure you check out these indoor holiday activities.

Whether you're looking for something fun to do with the family or just want to relax after a long day, there are more indoor activities available than you might expect on the Isle of Man.

From museums to steam railways, we have compiled a list of 10 indoor activities on the Isle of Man to help you plan your trip and find the perfect activity for everyone!

Places to Visit for Families

Coming over with the whole family? No problem, we have something for everyone here! This section has a selection of museums that the whole family can take in and enjoy.

Visit the House of Manannan

Young woman walking around the House of Manannan, looking at exhibits displayed about the Isle of Man

The House of Manannan is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich Celtic, Viking and maritime history of the Isle of Man. Located in Peel on the west of the Island, the museum offers a journey through time, starting with the Celtic roundhouse and culminating in the modern day. You'll also see reconstructions of Viking ships, replica artefacts, and film viewings that bring the Island's past to life. You'll also meet characters who will regale you with stories and superstitions from Manannan's history. The atmosphere is truly immersive, and you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the Island's rich culture.

Discover more about the House of Manannan here

Take in a show at the Gaiety Theatre

A family enjoying a tour of the Gaiety Theatre on the Isle of Man, the tour guide is showing them pictures of the Theatre's history

The Gaiety Theatre is the jewel in the Manx Heritage crown. Steeped in history and tradition, the Gaiety is one of the finest examples designed by the legendary theatre architect Frank Matcham. First opened in 1900, the theatre has undergone extensive historical restoration to ensure it remains one of the finest operating theatres in the British Isles.

Boasting a year-round programme of top-class entertainment, including family shows, musicals, pantomimes, plays, comedians, concerts and more, you’ll surely find something entertaining to watch during your time on the Island.

Find out what shows are on here.

Visit Castle Rushen

A family interacting with one of the interactive displays at Castle Rushen on the Isle of Man

Castle Rushen is a mediaeval castle located in the heart of the Isle of Man's ancient capital,Castletown. The castle was initially built for a Norse king in the 12th century and used as a royal residence, mint, and prison. These days, Castle Rushen is open as a museum and educational centre, with era-accurate decorations and life-like settings. Visitors can explore the castle's rooms and furnished chambers, hear from past inhabitants, and discover who shaped its future. The castle is also home to the Gatehouse with its en-suite garderobe and Lord Stanley in the Presence Chamber.

Discover more about Castle Rushen here

Visit the Manx Museum

An interior shot of the Manx Museum on the Isle of Man

Anyone interested in the rich history of the Isle of Man would be well advised to pay a visit to the Manx Museum. The museum houses a wealth of artefacts and treasures that provide insights into the Island's unique heritage. The hoards of Viking silver and relics from all over the Island are particularly interesting. These fascinating items offer a glimpse into the Island's rich Viking and Celtic past. In addition, the museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to travel through the Island's 10,000-year history. With so much to see and do, the Manx Museum will surely delight anyone who takes the time to explore it.

Discover more about the Manx Museum here

Visit the Grove Museum of Victorian Life

A family playing croquet in the grounds of the Grove Museum on the Isle of Man

The Grove Museum is a cherished country home that tells the story of the Gibb family. The Gibb sisters lived a frugal but spirited life, working to maintain the place they called home. The museum reveals the family's life below the stairs in the servant's quarters and shows the working beehive. Outside is vintage farm equipment, a country garden and Loaghtan sheep grazing on the fields. The museum displays Victorian life and provides insight into the lives of the Gibb sisters.

Discover more about the Grove Museum here

Visit the Nautical Museum

A father and son at the Nautical Museum, dressed up in authentic maritime costumes

The Nautical Museum in Castletown is dedicated to preserving the Isle of Man's maritime heritage. The museum's centrepiece is the Peggy, an 18th-century armed yacht designed and built by George Quayle. Quayle was a self-taught shipwright and engineer, and Peggy is the only known example of his work.

The museum also houses a collection of nautical artefacts excavated from Castletown, including Quayle's private dock and cabin room. Visitors can also learn about the Nautical Museum's work to conserve Peggy and ensure her survival for future generations.

Discover more about the Nautical Museum here

Places to Visit for Car and Railway Enthusiasts

We have some treats for you if you love cars, motorbikes or trains. With a rich history of motorsports on the Island, there is a lot for you to take in and enjoy.

Visit the Isle of Man Motor Museum

A selection of vintage motorcycle bikes on display at the Isle of Man Motor Museum

Situated on the former RAF Jurby in the sunny north of the Isle of Man, the privately funded Isle of Man Motor Museum was purpose designed and houses over 500 vehicles. Opened in May 2015, it has become a petrol head’s paradise with something for everyone to enjoy. With almost 400 motorcycles on display, from the earliest motorised bicycles to modern day superbikes, including TT winners and Bonneville Record Holders, there is sure to be something for all bike fanatics. The Museum is also very proud of the Island's local heroes and are honoured to display their machines as well.  

Discover more about the Isle of Man Motor Museum here

Visit Port Erin Railway Museum

A man taking a picture of one of the old railways at the Port Erin Railway Museum on the Isle of Man

Port Erin Railway Museum is the perfect place for train enthusiasts. The museum charts the history of the steam-powered railway from its inception in 1873 to the present day, including the now defunct lines which used to serve Peel, Ramsey and Foxdale.

Inside you’ll find steam engines and carriages, including the royal carriages which carried The Queen and Queen Mother in 1963 and Queen Elizabeth II in 1972. The museum is also home to a fine collection of locomotives, the Royal Train, rolling stock, memorabilia, posters and interpretive displays. In addition, the museum is home to the Isle of Man’s only railway simulator. The museum also has a souvenir shop, making this a perfect place for train enthusiasts of all ages.

Discover more about Port Erin Railway Museum here

Take a Ride on the Isle of Man Steam Railway

A family on board the Isle of Man Steam Railway, the kids looking out of the window towards the camera

The Isle of Man Steam Railway is a must-do for any visitor to the Island. It is the longest narrow gauge steam line in Britain that still uses its original locomotives and carriages, and it runs through some of the most stunning scenery on the Island.

The three-foot narrow gauge railway was opened in 1873 and runs through the Island’s charming countryside between the Island’s capital and a range of destinations in the south. Many of the Island’s heritage attractions in the south of the Island are located near to railway stations, making it a convenient way to travel.

Simply sit back and revel in the spectacular Manx scenery and countryside as it gradually passes by you. A one-way journey along the beautiful Manx countryside running the full length from Douglas to Port Erin takes an hour to complete and is well worth taking your time to explore all that this unique Island has to offer.

Discover more about the Steam Railway and its operating times here

Indoor Activities for the Kids

While many of the activities across the Island can be enjoyed by the little ones, there is something special for them to enjoy.

Manx Fun Farm

The Manx Fun Farm is great for kids to play and explore. The large, three-level play area has something for everyone, from the baby area to the top level with the wavy slide. The staff are friendly and helpful, and they serve drinks, snacks, and meals so parents can relax and chat with friends while their children play. The Fun Farm is a great place to spend a day with the family.

Discover more about the Manx Fun Farm here

Autumn is a great time to visit the Isle of Man, especially if you're looking for indoor activities. Our list of indoor holiday activities will help keep you and your family entertained while you're here. Whether you're interested in history, trains, or just good old-fashioned fun, we've got something for everyone. Don't forget to check out our page on what's on for more ideas on things to do while you're here!

Related

House of Manannan
Museum
An image of the House of Manannan from the front of the building.

The legendary sea god Manannan will guide you through the Island’s rich Celtic, Viking and maritime past.

Gaiety Theatre
Entertainment Venue
Gaiety Theatre

The Gaiety Theatre is the jewel in the Manx Heritage crown. Presenting a year-round programme of entertainment including plays and musicals, you'll be sure to find something entertaining to watch during your time on the Island.

Castle Rushen
Castle / Fort
Castle Rushen across the Harbour

Discover one of the best preserved medieval castles in Europe.

Manx Museum
Museum
Manx Museum

From the wonders of our natural world to road racing legends, begin your journey through the Island’s vibrant history and its unique national collections.

Grove Museum
Museum
View from the garden of the front of the Grove House

Step inside the cherished country home of the Gibb family. Inside their possessions reveal the story of the family.

Nautical Museum
Museum
Model of Peggy

Uncover the story of the inventive George Quayle and his most significant surviving creation Peggy, the earliest known example of a British armed yacht.

Isle of Man Motor Museum
Museum
Iconic classic and vintage British motorcycles

Explore the amazing stories behind a collection of hundreds of unique vehicles from around the world, including classic cars and motor vehicles and rarely seen private motorcycles.

Port Erin Railway Museum
Museum
Port Erin Railway Museum

A unique museum that will take you back in time to a period when train travel on the Isle of Man was a regular occurrence and not just a day out!

Isle of Man Steam Railway
Steam Railway
Isle of Man Steam Railway

Experience the excitement of travelling between Douglas and the south of the Island on a Victorian steam railway perfectly preserved in time.

Manx Fun Farm
Tactical Sports
Manx Fun Farm

Manx Fun Barn offers a range of activities including Bowling, Roller Skating, Laserblast and the Fun Barn