About
St. Patrick’s Isle was once home to Christian missionaries, Viking warriors and kings. The impressive fortress dominating the Isle was a royal residence, centre of government and military stronghold. Wander the extensive grounds, enjoy panoramic views and let the informative audio guide help you unlock the stories of the castle.
Constructed by the Vikings in the 11th century, the Castle stands on St Patrick's Isle and remains an impressive feature on the Sunset City's coastline. While no longer used, the red sandstone walls of the castle remain intact and provide an intriguing walk through history as you walk through the ruins of the Castle's Cathedral and Round Tower.
Over the years there have been many stories about the Castle, including the story of the 'Moddey Dhoo' black dog that roams the halls and old tales of the site being a possible location of the Arthurian Avalon.
The castle has also been the site of many spectacular historical finds, including the 10th century grave of the 'Pagan Lady' which included a well-preserved example of a Viking necklace and a cache of silver coins dating from about 1030 which are now on display in the Viking Gallery at the Manx Museum.
The Castle also provides panoramic views over Peel and out to the Irish Sea, where you may even be lucky enough to spot the local seals and basking sharks which are often seen nearby. Whatever your interest, you will find layer on layer of Manx history to pique your interest within these ancient walls.
Guide Prices
Adults £12.50, including a voluntary donation of £1.50
Students £5.50 (over 18 with a valid Student Card)
Children FREE (children aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult)
Your admission:
• All admission tickets and passes include a 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.
• Children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
• 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. Find out more.
• 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
- Audio tours
- Guide Dogs Permitted
Catering
- Picnic Site
Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Payment Methods
- Accepts major credit and debit cards
- Approx length of visit - 1h
- Groups Accepted
- Major credit cards acceptable
- Open by appointment outside normal opening times
- Special group rates
Provider Facilities
- Accept coach parties
- Available for wedding receptions
- Dog Friendly
- Dogs Accepted
- Event Venue
- Group Friendly
- Licenced for civil marriages
- Toilets
Provider Features
- In town/city centre
Tours and Demonstrations
- Educational Visits Accepted
- Guided Tours Available for Groups
Travel & Trade
- Group discounts available
- Min group size numeric qualifier - 15
