About
One of the biggest surprises awaiting first-time visitors to the Isle of Man is the Island’s extraordinary array of vintage railways - all dating from the Victorian era. These have been immaculately restored, and today run much as they did 100 years ago. Enthusiasts frock from all over the world to experience the joy of riding on these wonderful heritage railways.
You will travel along the old Victorian Promenade fronting Douglas Bay to the terminus of the Manx Electric Railway at Derby Castle - the longest of any of Britain’s vintage narrow gauge lines. The railway will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2018 and astonishingly still depends on original Victorian and Edwardian technology.
Clamber aboard, and the tramcars are ready to whistle and grind their way through leafy glens and hollows, before emerging triumphantly on top of precipitous cliffs, offering spectacular views across the coastline. Your journey to Laxey will take approximately thirty minutes. Passing over the impressive Glen Roy viaduct, we arrive at the sylvan Laxey Station, arguably the most picturesque on the Island.
On arrival at Laxey, we transfer to the Snaefell Mountain Railway - the only electric mountain railway in the British Isles and 100 years old in 1995. The four and a half miles of double track climb out of Laxey to the 2,036 feet summit of Snaefell, the highest point on the Isle of Man, with gradients as steep as 1 in 12. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the coast and the Laxey Wheel as the slow and gradual ascent takes you up the side of Laxey Glen.
On arrival at the summit of Snaefell you will enjoy spectacular scenery from the viewpoint. You may also enjoy a local Manx refreshment in the Summit Café if you wish. Your railway experience will then return you part-way down the mountain where you then disembark to join the waiting coach to transfer back to Douglas.
For further details and booking contact: call (01624) 687000 or email cruise@gov.im
