About
Located in the ancient capital of the Isle of Man, Castletown, this impressive fortress was once home to the Kings and Lords of Mann.
Originally built for a Norse king in around 1200AD, Castle Rushen was developed by successive rulers until the 1600s. During its time it was used as a fortress, royal residence, a mint and even a prison.
The castle’s towering limestone walls would have been visible over much of the south of the Island – and you can climb the stone spiral staircases to the roof where you can enjoy panoramic views of Castletown and beyond.
Inside the Castle you’ll be able to indulge in its history and hear from some of its inhabitants, including Bishop Wilson who you will find in his cell and the castle guards in their vaulted rooms.
You’ll also be able to dine with the Kings and Lords of Mann in the great banqueting hall, experience the sights and sounds of a Medieval kitchen and visit the gatehouse.
Guide Prices
Adults £14
Children FREE (all children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult).
Students over 18 with a valid Student Card £6.50
Your admission
Adult admission tickets for Castle Rushen include a £1 voluntary donation to Manx National Heritage (Isle of Man registered charity no. 603), supporting our charity’s work in caring for the Isle of Man’s most cherished places and spaces, including historic buildings, landscapes, archives and museum collections. If you do not wish to pay the donation please state to staff that you wish to opt out of the voluntary donation at the ticket desk when paying admission.
Some special events may incur an additional admission charge.
Student discount is available on production of a valid student card.
Group discounts are available to pre-booked group visitors of 15 or more paying visitors booked 7 days in advance.
Holiday and Annual Passes – admission is only permitted on production of a valid card. Cards are valid for the named person and are not transferable. ID may also be requested. Free access is for 14 days from the first day of use on a Holiday Pass and 1 Year from first date of use on an Annual Pass for Isle of Man residents.
Free admission is available to children under 18 years of age, persons accompanying a disabled visitor, Go Explore Heritage and Go Platinum Reserve Passes for use with trams, trains and bus transport and Members of the Friends of Manx National Heritage and organisations holding an agreement with Manx National Heritage. Entry available to the named member only on presentation of a valid membership card. Restrictions may apply. For details on our reciprocal arrangements, please consult your membership handbook.
Facilities
Accessibility
- Accessible toilets
- Baby changing facilities
- Ramp / Level Access - To the gift shop and first exhibition in the Castle courtyard and the bailey and grounds.
Leisure Facilities
- Shop
Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Payment Methods
- Accepts major credit and debit cards
- Approx length of visit - 1.5h
- Groups Accepted
- Maestro accepted
- Major credit cards acceptable
- MasterCard accepted
- Open by appointment outside normal opening times - For Groups
- Solo accepted
- Special group rates
- Visa accepted
Provider Facilities
- Available for wedding receptions
- Event Venue
- Licenced for civil marriages
- Toilets
Provider Features
- In town/city centre
- Indoor Attraction
- No Smoking Attraction
- Outdoor Attraction
Target Markets
- Family Fun
- Marketed Towards Families
Tours and Demonstrations
- Educational Visits Accepted
- Guided Tours Available for Groups
Travel & Trade
- Group discounts available
- Min group size numeric qualifier - 15
Venue Facilities
- WiFi Available