Isle of Man coach holidays
Language: English
Currency: Pound Sterling
Time Zone: GMT
Tipping: 10 to 12% is usual for hotels with 10 to 15% being usual for restaurants. In each case, it is not necessarily added to the bill. If a service charge has already been added, no further tip is required.
Marooned between England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales in the Irish Sea roughly 60 miles west of Lancashire lies the pint-sized Isle of Man, some 32 miles long by 15 miles wide. Its small size hasn't intimidated it into following the rest of Britain however: This unique self-governing kingdom has its own parliament, own postage stamps, own Manx language and own currency (although the English pound is widely accepted). Even Queen Elizabeth II isn't called the Queen here, but holds the more modest title of 'Lord of Mann'.
Since almost half the island is uninhabited, Isle of Man coach holidays are ideal for enjoying the wound-down pace, fresh air, enchanting glens and mountains. The space proves great for rambling, cycling and other outdoor pursuits and its pleasantly surprising scenery, beaches and medieval castles are ripe for exploration.
The island's old-fashioned Victorian transport is still in use with steam, electric and mountain railways to choose from as well as a horse tram. Douglas is the island's capital and is the perfect place to daydream away an afternoon on a coach tour. Ramsey, Castletown, Cregneash, Peel, St John's, the Calf of Man (the island's most southern point) and a journey on the Snaefell Mountain Railway affording views of all four UK countries are usual excursions.
Coach holidays to the Isle of Man are typically coach and ferry crossing, although some touring holidays include flights.
Things to do
It may only be small but the Isle of Man still has a lot to see and do whilst staying here. Some of our favourites include:
Manx Museum
Make sure this is one of your first places to visit as it provides a wealth of information on the island's history and heritage. Discover the interactive displays, films and exhibitions and also find out about the best way to explore some of the Island's important landmarks.
Heritage Railways
You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to trying to choose which rail journey to take. There is the Snaefell Mountain Railway, a steam railway, an electric railway, or Douglas horse trams just to name a few!
Castle Rushen
Castle Rushen is a magnificently preserved castle with great views over the town of Castleton. If you're interested in historical buildings and history then this should be a must-see on your visit. Not only do you have the views from the room but inside the Castle there are interesting displays as well as some realistic looking inhabitants!
Manx Glens
If you want to escape from the bustle of everyday life and find a peaceful retreat then go to one of the 18 scenic glens which can be found scattered around the Isle of Man. Each glen has different characteristics but generally you will find waterfalls, rock pools and often a route to the coast.
To help you have an enjoyable holiday in England, please take a look at these useful tips and advice provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office:
Health and Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended by all our tour operators and for some operators it is a condition of booking. When choosing a travel insurance please ensure it fully covers all your personal requirements including pre-existing medical conditions, cancellation charges, medical expenses, and repatriation in the event of accident or illness. As a British citizen you will obviously be entitled to free emergency health care on the NHS.
If you are visiting England from outside the United Kingdom and fall ill or are involved in an accident and are from an EU country or Switzerland, you can use a valid EHIC issued by your home country to access healthcare. Please note this is not an alternative to travel insurance. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised for nationalities planning on visiting the UK.
For the latest information and travel advice regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19), please click here
If you need to contact the emergency services whilst in the UK simply dial 999 or 112 to ask for an ambulance.
Crime
The United Kingdom is a safe place to visit, however, as with all countries please exercise common sense. Petty crime can occur so take your usual precautions such as not leaving luggage unattended, beware of pickpockets in tourist areas and leave valuables in the hotel safe.
Local Laws and Customs
Queuing is a British Institution - jump a queue at your own risk!
If you are visiting from outside of the United Kingdom, it is wise to check customs requirements before you travel. If you are planning to bring alcohol, tobacco or souvenirs into the country, you need to be familiar with the UK's custom laws. If you go over your allowances, you may have to pay tax or duty. It is worth checking the HM Revenues and Customs website before you travel.
UK Entry Requirements
When travelling between the UK, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man you may need to show a Border Force officer a document confirming your identity. In most cases an official form of identification such as a driver's license or an armed forces identity card will be ok. However, some airlines will insist you show a passport so please check before you travel.
If you’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein you can enter the UK with one of the following identity documents: a passport, an Irish passport card or a national identity card issued by an EU country, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, if you’re eligible to use one. The identity document should be valid for the whole of your stay.
If you’re from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you must have a valid passport to enter the UK. It should be valid for the whole of your stay. You may also need a visa, depending on which country you’re from. Please check here if a visa is required before you travel.