Included Castle Rushen, Steam Railway & Tynwald Experience
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Port
Douglas, Isle of Man
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
Information Not Currently Available
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Departing Douglas, take a scenic journey to Castletown, located in the south of the island. The former capital of Isle of Man until 1869, the origins of Castletown can be traced back to 1090. Its narrow streets and small fishing cottages prove this ancient past at every corner. Visit the magnificent medieval Castle Rushen. The exact date when it was built is unknown, though is believed to be around 1200. The Castle served as the residence of the last Norse King of Man, who died in 1266. Part of the castle was destroyed in a siege by Robert the Bruce in 1313 but was rebuilt by Sir William de Montacute in around 1344. On the exterior of Castle Rushen hangs a clock presented by Queen Elizabeth I in 1597, while she held the island in trust pending a dispute. The clock is of simple construction with only one hand but keeps very good ‘Manx time’. Following your visit to Castle Rushen, re-join your coach towards Castletown railway station.
At Castletown’s railway station, board a steam train on the 150 years old Victorian line. The narrow-gauge railway operates with much of the original rolling stock, and passengers travel in carriages pulled by the original engines from the 1890’s. From the train, enjoy impressive views of the Isle of Man countryside. Arriving at Douglas railway station, a beautiful red brick Victorian structure venture through the station to continue your journey to Tynwald Hill by coach.
Located in the village of St John’s, Tynwald Hill is the original site of the world’s oldest democratic parliament, which has run continuously since 979. Each year on 5th July, the laws enacted in the year preceding are promulgated to the gathered government officials and the public at large, both in Manx (Gaelic) and English languages. Learn about the origins of Tynwald and climb the famous tiered, grass topped hill, which is constructed with stones from each of the Isle of Man’s 17 parishes.
Following your visit, enjoy a short journey back to Douglas.
Please note: Wherever Included Experience tours are offered, guests are allowed to participate in only one included experience per call unless otherwise specified in the tour description.