In Culture and Heritage, Adventure, Events, Family, Holiday

Many railway enthusiasts are likely aware of the Isle of Man’s unrivalled heritage Railways, with a collection of unique narrow gauge and mining railways, which are beautifully preserved and still running in as timely a fashion as ever.

2023 is an exceptionally exciting year for the Railways, as we celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Isle of Man Steam Railway, and the 130th Anniversary of the Manx Electric Railway. Both Railways have played a very important part in boosting the Isle of Man’s tourism, as well as serving the needs of the island’s residents throughout their combined 280 years of service.

This year we’ll be celebrating the ingenuity of the Railways and all the people who have been involved in their operation over the years, with a packed calendar of exciting events…

2023 Railways Isle of Man

Key Dates for the Diary

Heritage Railways

Saturday 1st July 2023

The whole day will be filled with celebrations to mark the official anniversary of the opening of the Douglas to Peel line by the Isle of Man Railway Company Ltd on 1st July 1873. Featuring the 150th Anniversary Plaque unveiling, a Victorian Fayre at Port Erin Station, a Loco Line-Up at Douglas Station, a Dining Train to commemorate former Isle of Man Railways Company Secretary G.H. Wood, and much more.

For information on the events click here, and for information on booking click here!

Sunday 23rd July – Sunday 30th July 2023

A week-long festival to celebrate both anniversaries of the award-winning Heritage Railways! Featuring Manx Electric Railway Motorman Taster Lessons, Legendary ‘Boat Trains’, Ultimate Railway Experience Tours, Workshop Tours, and much more.

To see all events taking place over the week click here, and for information on booking click here!

Sunday 10th September 2023

A special commemorative day to mark 130 years of the unique Manx Electric Railway which first opened from Derby Castle to Groudle Glen on 7th September 1893. Featuring the 130th Anniversary Plaque Unveiling, Victorian Fayre at Laxey Station, Snaefell Mountain Railway Workshop Tours and more.

For information on the events click here, and for information on booking click here!

The Steam and Electric Railways can be enjoyed throughout the year, whether it’s experiencing an unforgettable journey along the coastal cliff tops, trying out one of the many unique dining events, taking a trip to see Santa, or enjoying a ‘Fyn & Tonic’ (with award winning Manx Gin!) and a Manx Mezze Plate with friends on the MER Fynoderee Line.  

Railways 2023

Groudle Glen Railway

Isle of Man Heritage Transport Festival 23rd, 26th 29th & 30th July

In conjunction with Isle of Man Railways' Year of the Railways event. The railway and tea rooms are open all day to welcome visitors to the Festival on Wednesday from 11am to 9pm. Visit the railway on Saturday for the vintage day of Victorian nostalgia with Sea Lion hauling her original 4 wheeled coaches dating from 1896. On Sunday enjoy a gala day of all of the railway’s locomotives and rolling stock in service from Steam to Battery and Diesel power.

Cliff Top Concerts 13th August

Enjoy a steam train trip to The Sea Lion Rocks Tea Rooms to be serenaded in beautiful surroundings with a free musical concert hosted by Manx musicians and groups. 

Steam Gala Day 17th September

An extravaganza of all steam locomotives at the railway performing a two train passing service for a bumper day of photo opportunities and chance to travel behind all the railway’s steam locomotives.

The ever popular ‘Hop Tu Naa’ (the Island’s Celtic festival celebrated on 31st October)  and Santa Trains will also be in operation during October and December 2023 – click here for more details.

Isle of Man Railways

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