Just a short flight or hassle-free sail away you can be in the Isle of Man in as little as 35 minutes, reunited with a friend or loved one and ready to start your exploration of this small Island paradise. Discover an abundance of places that will help you escape this winter, whilst still feeling close to home, from the Island’s extraordinary landscapes and dazzling dark skies to its crisp coastal air and relaxed way of life. We’ve put together this two-day itinerary to take the thinking out of your short break and to ensure you make the most of Island life, and time with loved ones, this winter.
Day One
On your first day, explore and experience the Island’s fascinating history, meander through botanical gardens, indulge in some retail therapy and finish the day under a blanket of stars.
AM: Breakfast in the capital
Start your weekend escape the right way, with an energising breakfast in the heart of the Island’s capital, Douglas. Many of our eateries pride themselves on using fresh local produce, promising you an unforgettable culinary journey each and every time. Whether visiting a friend or relative, catch up on times gone by at one the Island’s bountiful breakfast hotspots. Here’s a few local favourites: Noa’s, The Eatery, Vibe, The Alpine, Cycle 360, Little Fish Café, The Tea Junction, The Tickethall, The Caff.
AM: History, heritage and a pinch of culture
From the wonders of our natural world to road racing legends, there is something for everyone as you experience the Island’s vibrant history and its unique natural collections at the Manx Museum. Travel through the Island’s 10,000 year history as it’s presented through film, galleries and interactive display, telling the story of how we changed from being the centre of a Celtic Kingdom to a Victorian holiday destination. The museum is also bursting with artefacts and treasures unique to the Isle of Man, including hordes of Viking silver and relics.
PM: Revel in some retail therapy
Home to high streets and independent stores, you can enjoy an afternoon of self-indulge in the Island’s retail scene. In particular Tynwald Mills, the only department store in the Isle of Man, incorporates a historic mill and beautiful scenery. Bringing many brands together under one roof - Barbour, Jack Wolfskin, Levi’s, The North Face, Jo Malone - to name just a few, Tynwald Mills is renowned for providing an enjoyable shopping experience.
PM: Delightful delicacies on the west coast
Fresh ingredients take centre stage in the Island’s dynamic food scene, which is built upon a foundation of wonderful local produce. West is best when it comes sensational seafood. Peel, a quaint fishing village on the Island’s west coast, is the perfect spot to refuel after your first day of exploring. The Creek, Dining by Chris Franklin, Black Dog Oven and The Boatyard are all based on the historic quayside with views overlooking the marina and Peel Castle, an 11th-century castle once home to Vikings.
PM: An evening under the stars
The Isle of Man is home to an extraordinary array of dark skies. With 26 official dark skies sites dotted around the Island, it’s the ideal place to see the breadth and beauty of the universe. Niarbyl Bay, cradled beneath steep cliffs, provides an unsurpassed sky, and a hotspot for witnessing hidden planets and shooting stars. The panoramic views over the Bay’s striking waters makes the stargazing experience, and your first day of your weekend escape, shine that much brighter.
Day Two
It’s not a trip to the Isle of Man without experiencing the beauty of its biggest asset, the great outdoors. Start the day with a walk amongst epic landscapes and some of the freshest air the British Isles has to offer before unwinding to the slower pace of Island life, or ‘traa dy liooar’ as its locally known.
AM: Walk more, worry less
Here on the Isle of Man we offer some of the best walking trails in the British Isles. Whether you’re an ambler, a rambler, or a serious hiker, you and your beloved walking buddy will find your stride amidst the wonders of the Island’s natural world. For a relaxed ramble, enjoy the delights of Groudle Glen, an enchanting wooded valley on the Island’s east coast. If you’re in the mood for a hilly hike, the circular route of Laxey, Agneash and King Orry’s Grave, will reward you with stunning views of Snaefell and its surrounding hills. For more inspiration, check out our blog on the top 10 walks to enjoy this winter.
AM: Brunch with a dose of vitamin sea
After your morning meander, appease your appetite at The Shed, a quirky and cosy artisan beachside café on the far end of Laxey Promenade. Open all year round, you’re guaranteed a warm and friendly welcome at The Shed. During winter, grab a blanket, a cake, and a drink of choice and cosy up to an outdoor heater as you watch the winter waves crashing over the beach – therapeutic level: 100.
PM: Beautiful botanical gardens
The Milntown Estate, built in the early 16th century, is home to over 15 acres of horticultural wonders. These range from ornamental gardens, water features and enchanting woodland walks. Wander in wonder in this historic setting, which is just as beautiful in winter as any other time of the year – look out for the red hanging flowers from the climber Clianthus Puniceus, ‘Lobster Claw’, or the Rhododendron, ‘Christmas Cheer’, with its blowsy pink flowers.
PM: Seal spotting at the Sound
Before you bid your goodbyes and embark on the journey back home, we’d recommend a detour to the Island’s southernmost point, The Sound. One of the most scenic places in the British Isles, cast your eyes to the rocky islet ahead, the Calf of Man, where you’re guaranteed to see hundreds of seals basking on the land and surrounding waters. If you have time, stop for a pre-travel bite to eat at the Sound Café, and The Shore Hotel in Gansey.
Related
Vibrant, Inspiring, Beautiful, Eating in our plant based urban oasis café in the centre of Douglas. Open for freshly baked savoury pastries, drinks and smoothies from 11am, lunch from 12pm and dinner from 5.30pm. Book online via facebook or website. Walkins welcome.
Super Cute, Super Fresh: Welcome to the Alpine. Open for breakfast, lunch and everything tasty in between
Cycle 360 started as a proof of concept in 2018 as the first combination bike shop-café in the Isle of Man, providing a modern space for everyone.
Little Fish Café is situated on the North Quay in Douglas and serves both lunch and dinner.
A warm and friendly welcome awaits you at The Tea Junction, with capacity for up to 70 guests and open 7 days a week. Situated in Castle Street, Douglas, we’ve created a space where you can relax and enjoy life, one sip at a time.
Enjoy a freshly prepared menu using the finest local ingredients in the evocative surroundings of the historic Douglas Railway Station. An exceptional dining experience for all, with friendly service and a convenient location right in the heart of the capital.
A small friendly café located opposite Douglas Bus station that serves all the home comforts one would need. We pride ourselves on having a warm and welcoming environment and one hell of a cup of coffee.
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.
Open 7 days a week, Tynwald Mills is the ideal place for a spot of shopping during your Manx holiday.
Situated on Peel’s historic quayside, The Boatyard enjoys views of the bustling marina and ancient castle offering you the perfect spot to relax over a delicious lunch or candlelit evening meal.
Niarbyl is a secluded beauty spot just south of Dalby Village on the Island’s west coast and of great geological interest. Discover the peaceful bay with its rolling hills and dramatic coastal paths leading to White Beach.
Groudle Glen is deep and rocky in places, with a lively bubbling stream running through its length. A small water wheel is situated in the lower glen.
Grading: Moderate Distance: 6.4 km / 4 miles Magnificent views of Snaefell and surrounding hills, the historic Great Laxey Wheel, the Viking King Orry's grave and the charming village of Laxey all combined in one circular beautiful walk.
Quirky, cosy, artisan beachside eatery on the far end of Laxey Promenade. Open all year round, you can be sure of a warm and friendly welcome.
There are 15 acres of gardens and woodlands in this historic setting for you to explore. Throughout the gardens there are many excellent specimens of rhododendrons, magnolias, camellias and many other species too, all of which produce a dazzling display throughout the summer.
At the Island's very southern tip 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.
The cafe at the Sound is in the most southerly part of the Island with views out to the Calf of Man. A large cafe with floor to ceiling windows allows you to enjoy the views no matter what the weather. Great Wildlife, great food, tranquil location.
Remember, taking care of our mental health adds an extra layer of enjoyment and relaxation to our travel experiences. Safe travels and enjoy your winter break in the Isle of Man!