MM E SUNDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER - FRIDAY 1ST OCTOBER - Isle of Man Event Services
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
SUNDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER – FRIDAY 1ST OCTOBER
2021
PROGRAMME
If you enjoy walking, you’ll love Walk the Isle of Man! Whether you are a seasoned hiker who knows the Island well, or you are here for the first time to experience our magnificent landscapes and spectacular coastlines, Walk the Isle of Man promises a feast of sights and sounds, experiences and adventures, to treasure forever. Our 2021 programme contains a superb choice of six walks on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and three pop-up walks on Wednesday - covering a mixture of easy, moderate and moderate plus routes - designed to appeal to all levels of walker. Simply select one walk per day. You can scale up as the week goes on, or take some days more leisurely than others. It’s entirely up to you. Each walk will be led by experienced walk leaders. Please note, you will be responsible for bringing your own food and refreshments. ABOUT US Walk The Isle of Man is organised by the Island’s leading events company, Isle of Man Event Services, together with Go-Mann Adventures, which is run by expert walking guide Dr Andrew Foxon. Andrew is a qualified Isle of Man Tour Guide (Guild of Manx Registered Tour Guides) and a Hill & Moorland Leader (Mountain Training Association) with a background in archaeology & landscape history and a passion for the outdoors. The programme has been put together with the help and support of the Manx Footpaths Conservation Group. The perfect combination for our great selection of walks! We are supported by an experienced and capable team of Isle of Man- based walk leaders, who know the Island intimately. You’ll be in safe and knowledgeable hands throughout.
WELCOME Arrival: 7.30pm | Sunday 26th September 2021 Your rendezvous will be at The Palace Hotel, on the famous promenade in Douglas, which will be hosting this year’s Welcome reception. The hotel, along with the nearby Ascot Hotel and a couple of well-located B&Bs will provide your accommodation throughout the week. During the introductory reception, you will have the chance to familiarise yourself with the routes and meet your fellow walkers, walk leaders and supporters. Tea, coffee and snacks will be provided. FAREWELL RECEPTION 7pm | Friday 1st October 2021 Our farewell reception will provide the perfect opportunity to reconvene and reminisce. Don’t miss it! Farewell reception will be at the Palace Hotel and includes a hot buffet. (just what’s required after a hard week’s walking!) TO BOOK YOUR PLACE It couldn’t be simpler! All bookings associated with Walk the Isle of Man involving travel, accommodation and activity packages are handled exclusively by the event organisers, Isle of Man Event Services. We take care of everything. Please contact Sally Helwich, Isle of Man Event Services Ltd, 15b The Village Walk, Avondale Road, Onchan, IM3 4EB Contact Isle of Man Event Services Ltd on 01624 664460 or by email on info@iomevents.com Walk the Isle of Man includes: A choice of quality accommodation, travel from your preferred port or airport, walks on every day, transport card, guides, welcome & farewell sessions, support from event organisers throughout the week. For further information our range of services, go to: www.iomevents.com We look forward to welcoming you to Walk the Isle of Man 2021.
The Routes General information
• Walk the Isle of Man 2021 will take place between • Outside the Palace Hotel on Central Promenade,
Mon 27th September – Friday 1st October. There there will be a gathering place for those who would
will be a choice of 6 bookable walks on Monday, like a local walker to escort them to these public
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. On Wednesday transport start points, if they are unfamiliar. Please
29th September you can choose to spend part of ask for the gathering time for your walk if you wish
the day sightseeing, have help to design a walk of to take advantage of this service.
your own or join one of our three afternoon and • Most walks should reach their finishing points
early evening pop-up walks ending with venues before 16:00. In addition to the 3 Wednesday
which provide optional catering and refreshments walks, 4 other walks are expected to finish at or
from fish & chips to pubs! after that time. An estimated finish time for each
walk is given at the end of each walk description.
• All walks must be booked in advance and there
Allowance should be made for subsequent travel
will be a maximum number of 21 bookings for
time back to Douglas.
each walk. Should the walk you wish to do not be
available, we will try to offer other choices. • The Isle of Man has great coastal, countryside,
glen and moorland walking. The weather in
• How to book: Contact Isle of Man Event Services late September and early October can be very
on 01624 664460 or Email info@iomevents.com variable! We recommend that you wear walking
• All walks start and finish using public transport boots with good ankle support and a good grip,
and use the Go-Explore Card which gives free layers of clothing appropriate for an Island with
access to Isle of Man buses, steam trains, the dynamic weather systems and bring waterproofs.
Manx Electric Railway (MER) and the Snaefell Traditional jeans or cotton are not recommended.
Mountain Railway (SMR). Travel outwards on the Walking poles can be a real help on some of the
steam train, MER and SMR has been booked. more exposed paths and slopes.
Outward journeys by bus and all return journeys • Please bring your own supplies of food and drink
are not booked and options for those journeys will for each day.
be provided in advance of the event and supplied
• Some walks take place in remote areas where
to your walk leaders and supporters. there are no toilet facilities, refreshment facilities
• Most of the walks use public transport departure or shelters.
times between 09:00 and 10:40. When departure • Participating in a walk is at your own risk.
is before this time, it is noted at the start of the If you feel you have not enough information
walk description. about a walk or what to expect, please ask
• Please meet your walk leaders at the public before booking. Booking for a walk is assumed
transport start point for your route in plenty of as consent that you are capable and ready to
time for boarding and departure (Lord Street undertake the walk concerned.
Bus Station, Steam Railway Station, Derby Castle • Please always follow the guidance of the
Manx Electric Railway Station). walk leaders and supporters, keep behind
the designated walk leader and in front of the otherwise). Do not deviate from way-marked
designated back marker. If you wish to leave the footpaths.
walk you must confirm this with the leader or
• If you have a relevant medical condition, or carry
back marker.
medication with you, please advise the walk
• Walk leaders and supporters reserve the right leaders and supporters. This can be done in
to refuse participation to any walker if, in their confidence and is important for your own safety on
opinion, the walker is not safely or suitably the walk and for their ability to handle any incident.
attired, or would be unsuited to undertake the
• Dogs are not allowed on the walks which are part
walk.
of this event because of the proximity of livestock
• Walk leaders and supporters have the final and farmland.
discretion to change the route of a walk if
• Local walk leaders, supporters, organisers and
they feel it is necessary as a result of weather
participants may wish to take photographs during
conditions, road and footpath closures, footpath
the walks and share these on social media and as
conditions or other circumstances.
part of future publicity for the Isle of Man. If you
• On public roads, keep to the right (unless safety do not wish your photograph to be taken, please
and the guidance of the walk leaders dictates advise the walk leader on each walk.
Walk descriptions
and gradings:
The following terms have been used to give a general grading and
are supported by each walk description:
Easy: Flatter or gently rolling landscape. Walking on paths,
tracks and quiet country roads with average to good surfaces.
Some walking on gentle slopes, sometimes with steps and stiles
en route. Suitable for walkers who enjoy a leisurely stroll.
Located in the middle of the Easy/Moderate: Varying landscape with more variety and slopes,
Irish Sea, the Isle of Man has occasional short demanding slopes. Possible steps, stiles or
considerable variety in its kissing gates. Sometimes coastal routes or near cliffs. Walked at
landscape which makes it a relaxed pace with rest opportunities. Suitable for keen walkers
a real treat for walkers. We who enjoy walking at a leisurely pace.
have coastal footpaths and
trails along ‘natural’ tracks Moderate: Varying landscape with variety in paths and slopes.
& footpaths, countryside and Occasional challenging slopes. Stiles, kissing gates or steps and
glen walks, as well as hill and possible uneven paths in places. Suitable for keen walkers and
moorland paths, all influenced anyone regularly active.
by a maritime climate. Some Moderate Plus: Challenging walk because of height gained
of the routes we use include and/or distance covered over rough countryside. Suitable for
stretches of farm track, quiet experienced walkers who are fit and active. Expect possible steep
country roads or road walking. slopes, narrow and uneven paths with stiles and kissing gates.
The ground we will walk on can
be rough and uneven and can We offer one Easy walk, one Easy/Moderate walk, two or three
change quickly in the course of Moderate walks and one or two Moderate Plus walks on each of
a single walk. the four main walking days (Monday 27th Sept, Tuesday 28th Sept,
Thursday 30th Oct, Friday 1st Oct). The three walks starting on the
The walk descriptions below afternoon of Wednesday 29th Sept are Easy and Easy/Moderate.
give an idea of where each
walk goes, how far it is, how NB: Please be aware that most walks begin and finish on public
much height is gained along transport. Additional time should be allowed to walk or travel from
the route, a rough indication of your accommodation to the public transport start point for your
timing, what we may see and walk and to return to your accommodation after the walk. Please
what to expect. ask for further details or advice if required.
Monday 27th September
Monday A – Easy
Wobbly Strata and maybe
Minkes: Port Soderick to
Douglas via Marine Drive
7.5 km/4.5 miles. Height gained
180m/590 feet. About 3 hours
walking.
Description: Linear coastal walk
along the east coast of the Island
on part of the Raad ny Foillan/Way
of the Gull long distance coastal
footpath, mostly on quiet country
roads from Port Soderick to
Douglas. What to expect: After Port southwest of the Island and rated
We take the 09:50 steam train Soderick Glen, the route is mainly as one of the best coastal walks
from Douglas Railway Station on the tarmacked surfaces of around the Irish Sea. Walked by
(booked) to Port Soderick Station, Marine Drive with gentle inclines Clare Balding in ‘Ramblings’!
then walk through Port Soderick and drops. Multiple steps at Port Explore part of the Raad ny Foillan/
Glen, one of the Island’s National Soderick. Estimated finish time at Way of the Gull long distance
Glens, to Port Soderick Bay. After Douglas harbour for walk is 13:10. coastal footpath. Linear walk from
a steep stepped rise out of the bay, Port St Mary to the Sound.
we join ‘Marine Drive’ and walk We take the bus from Douglas
Monday B – Easy/Moderate
back to Douglas Head and Douglas to Port St Mary (not booked)
on foot along the line of the former (also available as Thursday B. and walk along the spectacular
tramway exploring Douglas Head Extended version to Port Erin coastal cliffs and bays round the
as we return on foot to Douglas available as Tuesday C and Friday C) southwest corner of the Isle of
harbour. Man past the geological fissures
Cliffs, Choughs and
What we may see: Woodland known as the Chasms and by two
wildlife, coastal sea birds Chasms: Port St Mary to Iron Age promontory forts to the
(choughs, gulls, ravens, peregrine the Sound Sound, overlooking the Calf of Man
falcons), coastal plants, geology, and Kitterland. A bus is available
sea mammals if we are lucky (in
8 km/5 miles. Height gained
from the Sound to Port Erin for
2019 there were minke whales!), 180/590 feet. About 4 hours return to Douglas by steam train
cliff and coastal views, views walking. (not booked) or bus (not booked).
over Douglas and Douglas Bay, Description: One of the Island’s Recommended outward transport
memorials on Douglas Head. favourite coastal walks in the times and options for return to
be provided when timetables are cream or cuppa. Options to travel Mountain Road TT course and rise
confirmed. back to Douglas by Manx Electric onto the slope of Clagh Ouyr, from
What we may see: Coastal wildlife, Railway or bus. Recommended where we follow the contours and
sea birds, gulls, choughs, ravens, outward transport times and gradually descend through open
grey seals at the Sound. Geology. options for return to be provided moorland and rough grazing to a
Iron Age promontory forts. when timetables are confirmed. quiet country road. We head north
What we may see: Ramsey towards Ramsey with views over
What to expect: Mostly natural
town, TT course, wooded glens, the northern plain and visit the
footpath along the coast and cliff,
woodland birds and plants, Albert Albert Tower, commemorating the
moorland areas, rocky surfaces.
Tower (built 1848) and views over visit of Prince Albert in 1847 and
Café and toilets at the Sound.
the north of the Island. Sandy follow paths and roads into Ramsey
Estimated finish time for walk at
beach and sea birds, Queen’s Pier, for a return to Douglas by bus
the Sound is 14:20.
working and historic harbour. (not booked) or the Manx Electric
Railway (not booked). Options for
Monday C - Moderate What to expect: Glen and
return transport to be provided
woodland walks, with a steepish
when timetables are confirmed.
The Albert Tower Amble: rise near the beginning through
Elfin Glen. Starting and finishing What we may see: Moorland
Ramsey Glens and Albert wildlife, ravens, hen harriers,
on urban roads and a sandy beach.
Tower Estimated finish time for the walk mining remains, Albert Tower,
at Ramsey 14:10. Ramsey and Ramsey Harbour
9.5 km/6 miles. Height gained
160 m/525 feet. About 3.5 hours What to expect: Open hill and
Monday D - Moderate moorland walking, mostly
walking.
downhill. Estimated finish time for
Description: Mainly woodland and walk at Ramsey 16:00.
upland circular walk on footpaths, Summit to Sea: Snaefell to
starting and finishing in the town Ramsey via Corrany Valley
of Ramsey.
Monday E - Moderate
13 km/8 miles. Height gained
We take the bus (not booked) to 150 m/490 feet. About 5 hours The Battle of Sky Hill:
Ramsey and then walk along part
of the famous TT course through
walking. Ramsey to Ramsey via Sky
Parliament Square and parts of Description: Linear hill walk over Hill
Ramsey. We then enjoy some open moorland and tracks in the
northeast of the Island, mostly 13 km/8 miles. Height gained
woodland walking which leads into
downhill then quiet country roads 210 m/689 feet. About 4.5 hours
Elfin Glen and to the Albert Tower,
and footpaths leading down from walking.
stopping en route for panoramic
views of the North of the Island. the northern hills into Ramsey. Description: Circular inland glen,
From the Albert Tower, we drop We take the 09:40 Manx Electric plantation and moorland walk,
down to the Ballure Reservoir, Railway (booked) from Derby beginning and ending in Ramsey.
through woods to the coast at Castle, Douglas to Laxey and We take the bus from Douglas to
Ramsey Bay where we follow the change onto the Snaefell Mountain Ramsey (not booked) and then on
beach under the Queens Pier (high Railway (booked) to the top of to Milntown on the outskirts of
tide 10:14) and back to Market Snaefell. We then walk down Ramsey to begin our walk along
Place, Ramsey for a beer, ice the side of Snaefell to cross the Glen Auldyn road, before climbing
up through the plantation of Sky Monday F – Moderate Plus open, rough grazing and moorland
Hill. We explore the top perimeter down the side of Snaefell to the
of Sky Hill before walking down Mysterious Tholtans: plantations around Tholt-e-Will
onto the Millennium Way and a Snaefell to Ballaugh via Glen and explore the remains
memorial for the Battle of Sky of abandoned farmsteads and
Killabrega cottages (tholtans) at Sharragh
Hill (1079). Our return to Ramsey
takes us behind the golf course 16 km/10 miles. Height gained Vane, Craig Mooar and Killabrega.
and Milntown towards Crossags 210 m/688 feet. About 5.5 hours Crossing over the Druidale Road
and Claughbane. A lovely walk walking. and a stretch of moorland, we
with some super views. Return to NB: Early start! This walk will head northwest and downhill
through Ballaugh Plantation to
Douglas by Manx Electric Railway require the 08:40 Manx Electric
a welcome refreshment stop
or bus (not booked). Recommended Railway from Derby Castle,
in Ballaugh. Return to Douglas
outward transport times and Douglas.
by bus (not booked) via Peel or
options for return to be provided Description: A great mix of Ramsey. Recommended options
when timetables are confirmed. moorland, plantation and quiet for return to be provided when
What we may see: Glen and country road walking exploring timetables are confirmed.
plantation birds and wild plants, tholtans (abandoned farmsteads
and cottages) as we travel on this What we may see: Hill and
extensive views from Sky Hill over moorland wildlife, ravens, hen
linear route through the Island’s
the north of the Island to Scotland harriers, hares, plantations.
northwest hills.
and Cumbria. Battle of Sky Hill
We take the 08:40 Manx Electric What to expect: Hill and moorland
memorial. Milntown House.
Railway tram (booked) from Derby walk over rough grazing and
What to expect: Quiet country Castle, Douglas to Laxey and moorland, plantation trails and a
road, plantation paths and tracks change to the Snaefell Mountain small amount of quiet country road
steadily uphill and downhill, gentle Railway (booked) to travel the walking. Steep slopes down and
footpaths. Estimated finish time easy way to the top of Snaefell up. Estimated finish time for walk
for walk at Ramsey 14:45. (621 m/ 2034 feet). We then cross at Ballaugh 15:30.
Tuesday 28th september
Tuesday A - Easy Description: Linear woodland follow paths and a quiet country
walk in the northeast of the Island lane through woodland to the
Babbling Glens: through Glen Mona and Ballaglass coast at Port Cornaa, then head up
Glen Mona to Cornaa Halt Glen on footpaths and quiet the other side of the Cornaa Valley
via Ballaglass Glen to one of the nicest wooded glens
country lanes.
in the Island – Ballaglass Glen.
6.5 km/4 miles. Height gained We take the 09:40 Manx Electric On the way, we pass industrial
100 m/328 feet. About 3 hours Railway (booked) from Derby archaeological heritage from
walking. Castle, Douglas to Glen Mona and mining, milling and manufacturing.
We return to Douglas by the Manx riverside through Groudle Glen, along the spectacular coastal cliffs
Electric Railway from Cornaa Halt/ one of the Island’s National Glens and bays round the southwest
Cornaa International! (not booked). and towards Molly Quirk’s Glen, corner of the Isle of Man past
Options for return transport to returning by the railway station for the geological fissures known as
be provided when timetables are the Groudle Glen Railway to the the Chasms and by two Iron Age
confirmed. coast, with a possible visit to the promontory forts to the Sound,
What we may see: Rich lane-side sealion cages. Return to Douglas overlooking the Calf of Man and
verges, woodland wildlife, shingle on foot or on the Manx Electric Kitterland, then continue up the
beach and coastal wildlife at Railway (not booked). Options for west coast to Port Erin Bay and
Port Cornaa, ‘bellite’ explosives return transport to be provided Port Erin. Return by steam train
when timetables are confirmed. (not booked) or bus (not booked) to
works, mills and mining remains,
What we may see: Shingle beach, Douglas. Recommended outward
Ballaglass Glen.
wooded glen and woodland transport times and options
What to expect: Gently sloping for return to be provided when
quiet country lanes and footpaths. wildlife, wetland plants, Groudle
timetables are confirmed.
Estimated finish time for walk at Glen Railway.
What to expect: Glen walking on a What we may see: Coastal wildlife,
Cornaa Halt 13:20.
range of path surfaces. Estimated sea birds, gulls, choughs, ravens,
grey seals at the Sound. Geology.
Tuesday B – Easy/Moderate finish time for walk at Groudle 14:30.
Iron Age promontory forts.
Tuesday C - Moderate What to expect: Mostly natural
Victorian Wonders:
footpath along the coast and cliff,
Groudle Glen (also available as Friday C. moorland areas, rocky surfaces.
8 km/5 miles. Height gained Shorter version stopping Café and toilets at the Sound.
60 m/196 feet. About 3.5 hours at the Sound available as Estimated finish time for walk at
walking. Monday B and Thursday B) Port Erin 15:20.
Description: Circular walk with Southern Coastal Tuesday D - Moderate
a coastal start then through an Splendours: Port St Mary
inland glen, returning to the coast.
to Port Erin via the Sound A Fort, A Lighthouse and
We take the 10:40 Manx Electric
Railway (booked) from Derby 12 km/7.5 miles. Height gained a Castle: Ballasalla to
Castle, Douglas for a short 270 m/886 feet. About 5 hours Castletown via Langness
journey to Groudle and start our walking. 13 km/8 miles. Height gained
walk at the beach. We follow the Description: One of the Island’s 110 m/360 feet. About 5 hours
favourite linear coastal walks in the walking.
southwest of the Island and rated as Description: Linear coastal and
one of the best coastal walks around riverside walk in the south of the
the Irish Sea. Walked by Clare Island, mostly following part of the
Balding in ‘Ramblings’! Explore part Raad ny Foillan/Way of the Gull
of the Raad ny Foillan/Way of the long distance coastal footpath but
Gull long distance coastal footpath. also some riverside walking.
We take the bus from Douglas to We take the 09:50 steam train
Port St Mary (not booked) and walk (booked) from Douglas RailwayStation to Ballasalla and then Tuesday F – Moderate Plus
head through the outskirts of the
village to reach the coast next to Trust us, the views are
Ronaldsway airport. The route worth it: Ballafesson to
then follows the coast through Colby via Cronk ny Arrey Laa
Derbyhaven, onto the long
16 km/10 miles. Height gained
peninsula of Langness and the
little rocky outcrop of St Michael’s 570 m/1870 feet. About 6 hours
Isle with its chapel and Civil War the Island’s highest peak and then walking.
fort. We head south on the rugged on moorland paths and tracks to NB: Early start! This walk will
east side of Langness and back Laxey village. require a bus departing from
through the bird reserve and ASSI We take the 10:10 Manx Electric Douglas between 08:51 (Douglas
at Sandwick round the bay to Railway tram (booked) from Derby Promenade) and 09:10 (Lord St).
Castletown, the Island’s former Castle, Douglas to Laxey and Description: Mix of hill walking over
capital. Return to Douglas by bus or change to the Snaefell Mountain open moorland and rural footpaths
steam train (not booked). Options Railway (booked) to travel the easy and quiet country roads in the south
for return transport to be provided way to the top of Snaefell (621 m/ west of the Island. Linear walk.
when timetables are confirmed. 2034 feet). We then cross open We take the bus (not booked) to
What we may see: Limestone and rough grazing and moorland on Ballafesson and head onto the hills
volcanic rock, coastal wildlife, tracks down the side of Snaefell through Surby, joining a stretch
sea birds, gulls, choughs, ravens, to cross the Mountain Road of the Raad ny Foillan/Way of the
salt marsh species, ducks, (route of the famous TT motor Gull long distance footpath to rise
waders, herons, 12th/13th century racing course). After rising up to the peak of Cronk ny Arrey Laa
chapel, Civil War fort, Langness the shoulder near Clagh Ouyr, we (437 metres/1434 feet). We take a
lighthouse, Castle Rushen. take a track which skirts Slieau different route from the summit
What to expect: Coastal and Lhean and then drops through and head for the Sloc and then a
riverside walking on open ground, pastureland to the village of Laxey mix of tracks, footpaths and quiet
footpaths and quiet country roads and time to look at the harbour, country roads which lead through
mainly on the flat. Estimated finish the Laxey Visitor Centre or the Ballakilpheric and Colby Glen to
time for walk at Castletown 15:30. Great Laxey Wheel. Return to Colby. Return to Douglas by bus or
Douglas by bus or Manx Electric steam train. Recommended options
Tuesday E - Moderate Railway. Recommended options for return to be provided when
for return to be provided when timetables are confirmed.
Winding our Way to Laxey: timetables are confirmed. What we may see: Hill and
Snaefell to Laxey via Slieau What we may see: Hill and moorland wildlife, ravens, hen
moorland wildlife, ravens, hen harriers, hares. Extensive views over
Lhean the south and west of the Island.
harriers, hares.
10.5 km/6.5 miles. Height What to expect: Mainly hill and What to expect: Partly hill and
gained 80 m/263 feet. About 4 moorland walk over rough grazing moorland walk over rough grazing
hours walking. and moorland, track walking and moorland, then rural tracks
Description: Downhill linear through pastureland. Pavements and paths through pasture and a
walk over open moorland in the in Laxey on arrival. Estimated final glen walk. Estimated finish
northeast of the Island, starting at finish time for walk at Laxey 15:30. time for walk at Colby 16:00.Wednesday 29th september
During the morning and early afternoon you can spend your time sightseeing, visit a historical site, or
go for an independent walk before joining one of our pop-up walks below.
Wednesday Wednesday Supper Walk Wednesday
Supper Walk A - Easy B – Easy/Moderate Supper Walk C - Easy
The Crosby Pub: Crosby to Fish and chip supper by the Fish and chip supper on
Crosby via the King’s Forest sea in Peel: Peel Castle, the Prom in Onchan:
6.5 km/4 miles. Height gained Peel Hill and back to Peel Douglas Prom via
300 m/984 feet. About 2.5 hours Promenade Summerhill Glen and
walking. Onchan Head to Port Jack
6.5 km/4 miles. Height gained
Description: A circular walk along 6.5 km/4 miles. Height gained
150 m/492 feet. About 2.5 hours
the old Douglas-Peel railway line, 100 m/328 feet. About 2.5 hours
walking.
then up into the King’s Forest walking.
Plantation and back to Crosby with Description: A circular walk from Peel
Castle over Peel Hill and back the easy Description: For those who want
an appetite!
way to Peel Promenade and time for to start and finish in the Douglas
We take the bus from Douglas to fish and chips! We take the bus from and Onchan area and end with fish
Crosby (not booked) and follow Douglas to Peel (not booked) – or meet and chips at Port Jack, Onchan. A
the line of the old steam railway you in Peel beside Peel Castle – to circular stroll for those who want to
westwards from Crosby. Crossing head past Fenella Beach and onto be around the capital!
the TT course, we head northwards Peel Hill with views over Peel and the We start from outside the Palace
into King’s Forest (Greeba west of the Island. We pass Corrin’s
Hotel, Central Promenade and walk
Plantation) and take a circular walk Tower and then drop down past
northwards to Summerhill Glen,
through the plantation returning to Knockaloe Farm to the old railway line
a lovely themed urban glen. This
Crosby and the Crosby Pub. Return from Peel to Douglas for a return to
leads us into Onchan village and
to Douglas by bus (not booked). Peel Promenade and a range of places
to eat and drink. Return to Douglas short tour of this community before
Recommended options for return we head for the coast at Port Jack
to be provided when timetables are by bus (not booked). Recommended
options for return to be provided when and the Port Jack chippy with great
confirmed. views over Douglas Bay. Stroll back
timetables are confirmed.
What we may see: Inland birds and downhill on the coast to Douglas
What we may see: Peel Castle, Peel
wildlife, plantations, views over the Hill, Corrin’s Tower, coastal and Promenade.
centre and south of the Island. The upland birds and plants, Knockaloe What we may see: Beach wildlife,
Crosby pub is on the TT course. Farm and former internment camp, Summerhill Glen, Onchan village, Port
What to expect: Low level start on Glenfaba mill, Peel Promenade. Jack and views over Douglas bay.
an old railway line track, then rising What to expect: Open rising hill paths What to expect: Mostly on urban
on plantation tracks and back to the at the start, returning on quiet country pavements with paths through
village of Crosby. Estimated finish tracks and paths. Estimated finish time Summerhill Glen. Estimated finish
time for walk at Crosby Pub 18:00. for walk at Peel Promenade 18:00. time for walk at Port Jack 18:30.thursday 30th september
Thursday A - Easy
Volcanoes and Vikings:
Castletown circular via
Scarlett Head
8 km/5 miles. Height gained
50 m/164 feet. About 3.5 hours
walking.
Description: An exploration of
coastal geology and archaeology
in a ‘Volcanoes and Vikings’
circular walk in the southeast of
the Island.
We take the 09:50 Steam Railway What we may see: A wealth of Description: One of the Island’s
from Douglas Railway Station geology, archaeology, coastal and favourite linear coastal walks
(booked) to Castletown Station limestone plants and birdlife. in the southwest of the Island
and then walk along a stretch of What to expect: Coastal track, and rated as one of the best
the Silverburn to medieval Castle stiles, footpath and open fields coastal walks around the Irish
Rushen and Castletown Bay. As with one stretch of quiet country Sea. Walked by Clare Balding in
we head west onto Scarlett Head, road. Estimated finish time for ‘Ramblings’! Explore part of the
we move from limestone rocks to walk at Castletown 14:15. Raad ny Foillan/Way of the Gull
ones of volcanic origin and round long distance coastal footpath.
a headland with WWII defences, We take the bus from Douglas
Thursday B –
Iron Age and early Christian sites to Port St Mary (not booked)
Easy/Moderate
and the place where stone for and walk along the spectacular
some of the steps in St Paul’s (also available as Monday B. coastal cliffs and bays round the
Cathedral were quarried. At Extended version to Port Erin southwest corner of the Isle of
Chapel Hill, Balladoole we see the available as Tuesday C and Man, past the geological fissures
sites of a bronze age burial, an Friday C) known as the Chasms and by two
Iron Age fort, an early Christian Iron Age promontory forts to the
chapel and a Viking ship burial, Cliffs, Choughs and Sound, overlooking the Calf of Man
before returning to Castletown Chasms: Port St Mary to and Kitterland. A bus is available
past the ‘witches mill’. Return to the Sound from the Sound to Port Erin for
Douglas by bus (not booked) or return by steam train (not booked)
steam train (not booked). Options 8 km/5 miles. Height gained or bus (not booked) to Douglas.
for return to be provided when 180/590 feet. About 4 hours Recommended outward transport
timetables are confirmed. walking. times and options for return tobe provided when timetables are We take the bus from Douglas to with a steep ascent and descent.
confirmed. Crosby (not booked) and follow a Estimated finish time for walk at
What we may see: Coastal wildlife, stretch north of the Millennium Crosby 15:00.
sea birds, gulls, choughs, ravens, Way long distance footpath, then
grey seals at the Sound. Geology. head up onto open moorland to Thursday D - Moderate
Iron Age promontory forts. reach the summits of Slieau Roy
(479 m/1572 feet) and Greeba West Coast Wonders: Peel
What to expect: Mostly natural
Mountain (422 m/1384 feet).
footpath along the coast and cliff,
From these heights, we drop – Knockaloe – Glen Maye –
moorland areas, rocky surfaces. Peel Hill
down through plantation (the
Café and toilets at the Sound. King’s Forest) and return past
Estimated finish time for walk at 13.5 km/8.5 miles. Height
St Trinian’s medieval chapel to
the Sound 14:20. Crosby for a return to Douglas by
gained 420 m/1378 feet. About
bus (not booked). Recommended 5 hours walking.
Thursday C - Moderate outward transport times and Description: A great mix of inland
options for return to be provided and coastal walking in the west
King of the Mountain: when timetables are confirmed. of the Island on this circular walk
Crosby to Crosby via What we may see: Open country beginning and finishing in Peel, the
Greeba Mountain with farmland, moorland and main harbour on the west coast.
plantation. Views from Slieau Roy We take the bus (not booked)
13 km/8 miles. Height gained and Greeba Mountain. Moorland to Peel Harbour then follow the
470 m/ 1542 feet. About 4.5 wildlife and local folklore for quayside and old railway line
hours walking. Greeba Mountain and St Trinian’s before heading to Knockaloe (the
Description: Circular moorland Chapel. site of a massive WWI internment
and plantation walk in the centre What to expect: Some road camp) and Holy Trinity Church,
of the Island. walking but mainly hill paths Patrick. We head up a quietcountry lane and join upland We take the bus from Douglas to Douglas Lord St B at 08:02.
tracks, which lead to the lovely the Wildlife Park (not booked), then Description: A great treat for
national glen of Glen Maye and its follow the line of the old Northern those who like moorland and hill
spectacular waterfall. Our route Manx Railway eastwards to Sulby walking, this linear route goes over
then joins the Raad ny Foillan/Way to climb Cronk Sumark/Primrose some of the northern hills from the
of the Gull long distance coastal Hill, a hillfort with great views northwest coast at Kirk Michael to
footpath, for our return to Peel over the north of the Island. Using the east coast at Laxey.
past the ‘Happy Hikers’ memorial, quiet country roads, we head for
We take the bus from Douglas to
the top of Peel Hill, Peel Castle Ballaugh Curragh, a unique wetland
the Kirk Michael (not booked) and
and Peel harbour, for a return environment on the Isle of Man,
head for the beach to begin our
to Douglas by bus (not booked). recognised as being of international
walk at sea level. Passing through
Recommended outward transport importance. Boardwalk trails
Kirk Michael, we follow the Baltic
times and options for return to lead through this extraordinary
Road to the top of Slieau Curn and
be provided when timetables are landscape and our route provides
then to Druidale and down to Sulby
confirmed. the opportunity to look for red-
Reservoir. Our next stretch takes
What we may see: Coastal, necked wallabies who now live wild
us to the Bungalow (on the famous
riverside and inland wildlife, WWI in this area. We walk to Ballaugh
TT course) and then into the
internment heritage, church, for a return to Douglas. Options for
Laxey Glen via Agneash village to
waterfall, mining remains, 19th return transport to be provided when
Laxey village and the beach on the
century tower, Peel Castle and timetables are confirmed.
Island’s east coast. Return to Laxey
harbour What we may see: Wetland plants, village for bus or Manx Electric
What to expect: Riverside, inland, birds and animals, red-necked Railway to Douglas. Options for
glen and coastal walk on footpaths wallabies, hillfort and views over the return transport to be provided
and quiet country tracks. Two north of the Island. when timetables are confirmed.
steeper rises. Estimated finish What to expect: Mostly on flat (Option to reduce length of route
time for walk at Peel 15:20. ground on quiet country roads, by taking the Snaefell Mountain
tracks and boardwalks, with one Railway from the Bungalow to
Thursday E - Moderate steep rise to the top of Cronk Laxey, or by stopping in Laxey
Sumark. Estimated finish time for without heading for Laxey Bay.
Where’s Wallaby?: Wildlife walk at Ballaugh 15:00. What we may see: Coastal wildlife
Park to Ballaugh via at the beginning and end, but
Ballaugh Curragh Thursday F – mainly moorland birds and plants
Moderate Plus for most of the route – ravens,
13 km/8 miles. Height gained hen harriers, kestrels. Snaefell
100 m/328 feet. About 4.5 hours Coast to Coast: Kirk Mountain Railway. Mining heritage
walking. Michael to Laxey at Snaefell mine, Agneash and
Description: Linear walk exploring Laxey. Laxey harbour.
the Ballaugh Curraghs: a RAMSAR 17.5 km/11 miles. Height gained What to expect: Mostly hill and
convention wetland area and home 660 m/2165 feet. About 7 hours moorland walking on footpaths and
to red-necked wallabies living wild. walking. tracks, with some quiet country
For those that like a bit of a view, NB: Early start! This walk will road and track walking. Estimated
there’s a hillfort thrown in as well! require a bus departing from finish time for walk at Laxey 16:10.Friday 1st October
Friday A - Easy
Roll Down the Barrel:
St John’s to Peel Hill via
Tynwald Hill
9.5 km/6 miles. Height gained
180 m/590 feet. About 4 hours
walking.
Description: Inland low-level
linear walk in the west of the
Island, leading to the west coast
and to Peel and Peel Castle over
Peel Hill.
We take the bus (not booked) from
Douglas to St John’s and have
time to explore the Royal Chapel
of St John’s and Tynwald Hill – the
Norse outdoor assembly site used Castle, Peel harbour, Cathedral mining and farming landscape on
for over a thousand years. We and museums. quiet country roads and footpaths
follow the line of the old railway What to expect: Easy initial around Laxey in the east of the
track and river westwards and walking on flat route of former Island on this circular walk, with
then gradually rise up the slope of railway, then gradual rise onto views to the hills and over Laxey
Peel Hill with views over the Island Peel Hill on moorland footpaths Bay.
from Corrin’s tower and Peel Hill, and drop to Peel harbour. We take the 10:10 Manx Electric
before descending to Peel Castle Estimated finish time for walk at Railway (booked) from Derby
and Peel itself with its harbour, Peel 14:15. Castle, Douglas to Laxey and then
promenade, Cathedral and walk by the river past the Great
museums. Return to Douglas by Laxey Wheel (the largest working
bus (not booked). Recommended Friday B – Easy/Moderate
waterwheel in the world) and the
outward transport times and industrial archaeology of lead and
options for return to be provided Echoes of a Mining Past:
zinc mining. The steep country
when timetables are confirmed. Laxey to Laxey via Agneash road leads to Agneash village
What we may see: St John’s and and more mining heritage and
8 km/5 miles. Height gained
Tynwald historic sites, riverside then over open fields and quiet
and wetland wildlife, mill, hill and 260 m/853 feet. About 3.5 hours country tracks to the two Neolithic
coastal wildlife, grey seals near walking. chambered tombs of King Orry’s
Peel Castle, Corrin’s Tower, Peel Description: Explore the rich Grave. We then walk down to LaxeyHarbour and Laxey Bay and up by Description: A mainly moorland
the river, back to Laxey Station. linear walk in the east of the Island
Return to Douglas by bus (not with great views on a clear day.
booked) or Manx Electric Railway We take the 10:10 Manx Electric
(not booked). Options for return Railway from Douglas to Dhoon
transport to be provided when Glen (booked) and then follow part
timetables are confirmed. of the quiet Ballaragh Road and
What we may see: Industrial quiet country tracks to rise up
archaeology, mining heritage, along the spectacular coastal cliffs onto moorland heading westwards
Neolithic chambered tombs, and bays round the southwest onto The Dreem, Slieau Ruy and
woodland wildlife, inland and corner of the Isle of Man, past Slieau Lhean. We then head into
coastal views. the geological fissures known as the Cornaa Valley and take another
the Chasms and by two Iron Age track leading eastwards into Glen
What to expect: Most of the route is
promontory forts to the Sound, Mona and the opportunity for
on quiet country roads and tracks.
overlooking the Calf of Man and refreshments (fingers crossed!)
Two steepish rises. Estimated finish
Kitterland, then continue up the before a return to Douglas by
time for walk at Laxey 14:30.
west coast to Port Erin Bay and bus or Manx Electric Railway (not
Port Erin. Return by steam train booked). Recommended outward
Friday C - Moderate transport times and options
(not booked) or bus (not booked) to
Douglas. Recommended outward for return to be provided when
(also available as Tuesday C.
timetables are confirmed.
Shorter version stopping at the transport times and options
Sound available as Monday B for return to be provided when
and Thursday B) timetables are confirmed.
What we may see: Coastal wildlife,
Southern Coastal sea birds, gulls, choughs, ravens,
Splendours: Port St Mary to grey seals at the Sound. Geology.
Port Erin via the Sound Iron Age promontory forts.
What to expect: Mostly natural
12 km/7.5 miles. Height gained footpath along the coast and cliff, What we may see: Manx Electric
270 m/886 feet. About 5 hours moorland areas, rocky surfaces. Railway, hill and moorland plants
walking. Café and toilets at the Sound. and birds, ravens, hen harriers,
Description: One of the Island’s Estimated finish time for walk at great views over to Cumbria and
favourite linear coastal walks in Port Erin 15:20. towards Snaefell, the Cornaa
the southwest of the Island and valley, North Barrule and the
rated as one of the best coastal Friday D - Moderate northern hills.
walks around the Irish Sea. Walked What to expect: Mostly on
by Clare Balding in ‘Ramblings’! Moor Glens: Dhoon Glen to moorland paths and tracks with
Explore part of the Raad ny Foillan/ Glen Mona via Ballaragh some quiet country roads at the
Way of the Gull long distance start. Steadily rise uphill and
coastal footpath. 13.5 km/8.5 miles. Height gained steady downhill for arrival to Glen
We take the bus from Douglas to 320 m/1050 feet. About 5 hours Mona. Estimated finish time for
Port St Mary (not booked) and walk walking. walk at Glen Mona 16:00.Friday E – Moderate Plus
Across the Roof of the
North: Snaefell to Ramsey
via North Barrule
12 km/7.5 miles. Height gained
400 m/1312 feet. About 4.5
hours walking.
NB: Early start! This walk will
require the 08:40 Manx Electric
Railway from Derby Castle,
Douglas.
to Douglas by bus (not booked) heading to Kirk Michael, all in the
Description: Linear hill walk over
or the Manx Electric Railway northwest of the Island.
open moorland in the northeast of
(not booked). Options for return We take the bus from Douglas to
the Island, taking in the Island’s
transport to be provided when Ballaugh (not booked) and then
highest peaks along a rounded
timetables are confirmed. follow the Ballaugh Glen Road
ridge.
What we may see: Hill and south and into the lovely Glen
We take the 08:40 Manx Electric
moorland wildlife, ravens, hen Dhoo. Rising onto slopes of Slieau
Railway tram (booked) from Derby
harriers, hares. Curn, we walk over open hill and
Castle, Douglas to Laxey and
What to expect: Mainly hill and moorland until we join the Baltic
change to the Snaefell Mountain
moorland walk over rough grazing Road which leads westwards from
Railway (booked) to travel the easy
and moorland, steep slopes down the hills to Kirk Michael. Return to
way to the top of Snaefell (621 m/
and up and walk along an exposed Douglas from Kirk Michael by bus.
2034 feet). We then cross open
but rounded ridge. Estimated finish Recommended outward transport
rough grazing and moorland on
time for walk at Ramsey 14:30. times and options for return to
tracks down the side of Snaefell
be provided when timetables are
to cross the Mountain Road (route
confirmed.
of the famous TT motor racing Friday F – Moderate Plus
course) and then up Clagh Ouyr What we may see: Glen and
and on to (North) Barrule along Northwest Nice Spots: moorland wildlife, ravens,
a rounded ridge. If the weather tholtans (abandoned farmsteads
Ballaugh to Kirk Michael via and cottages), great views over
allows, we shall be able to see not
only the Northern Plain and hills, Slieau Curn/Glen Dhoo the west of the Island and over
but also the ‘Seven Kingdoms’ – Scotland and Ireland.
13 km/8 miles. Height gained
Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, What to expect: Glen walking
Mann, Heaven and the Sea! We 330m/1082 feet. About 5 hours on quiet country roads, tracks
head down (North) Barrule to walking. and footpaths. Steepish rise to
Ballure Plantation and Reservoir Description: Up through the glen Slieau Curn and open moorland
and to our finishing point in and over the hills is the story and steady downhill route to Kirk
Ramsey, the largest town in the of this linear route exploring Michael. Estimated finish time for
north of the Island and return Glen Dhoo, Slieau Curn and then walk at Kirk Michael 14:30.Leave only Footprints, Take only MEMORIES
Tel: 01624 664460
Email: info@iomevents.com
MAGNIFICENT LANDSCAPES AND SPECTACULAR COASTLINES www.iomevents.comYou can also read
