Ramsey Nature Reserve Beach Walk

About

Distance: Short Route 2 miles, Long Route 4.5 miles 

Grading: Leisurely 

Terrain: Sand, shingle and/or surfaced 

Head up north to the town of Ramsey and discover the magnificent nature reserve on the dunes of Ramsey Beach. 

Known as the sunniest area of the Island, you can explore the town's Mooragh Park and Lake, as well as the sandy beaches that run all the way from here to the northern end of the Island. 

Ramsey Bay was also the island's first Marine Nature Reserve, set up to protect fisheries and marine wildlife. The protected area acts as a 'nursery area' for fish and other creatures and plants to safely mature before they move out into the wider ocean. See if you can spot the Pacific Oysters and Darwin's Barnacle that can be easily spotted as you make your way along the beach.

The shore also provides a feeding area for birds such as oystercatchers, redshanks and ringed plovers, as well as geese, swans and ducks in the town's harbour. The inner harbour footpath also acts as a sun trap and houses rich original saltmarsh habitat plus many land plants. 

Advice and Safety Information 

For more information, visit one of the nine information boards that can be seen between the Point of Ayre and Maughold Lighthouse. Each board gives you interesting information about Ramsey Marine Nature Reserve, including important information on what activities are allowed in which areas. Along this route, you can find boards at: Mooragh Promenade, outside Ramsey Swimming Pool and at Queen's Pier. 

Due to its status as a Marine Nature Reserve and the number of species present, please take care when visiting the beach and ensure that nothing is removed from this habitat.