Nestled along the east coast, the Douglas oozes charm. Enjoy horse-drawn tram rides along the pedestrian-only shopping promenade as you drift back into another era. The restored 19th-century buildings and boutiques make High Street something you should not miss. Douglas is a great port to explore. The gardens and museums dotted throughout town make this a relaxing and culturally rich place.

As early as the 19th century, Douglas became a popular holiday resort with all its seaside delights. The horse-drawn trams clattering along the promenade and what appears to be a giant sand castle on the bay, nicknamed the Tower of Refuge, make this a very picturesque port-of-call.

In addition to being the launch pad for the famous Isle of Man TT motorcycle race, it is also the birthplace of the Bee Gees. While the band is often more closely associated with Australia, the brothers' childhood home was at 50 St. Catherine's Drive.

Ship Location

Cruise passengers tender ashore at the end of Douglas Promenade close to the town’s center. There is a large visitor center, shopping, and cafes.

Getting Around

From the tender pier, visitors can walk, take a horse-drawn tram, or board a luxury coach to explore the island.

Attractions

You can take the Heritage Trail & Scenic Drive to see plunging cliffs, sandy beaches, and rugged glens that remind everyone who visits of the Celtic and Viking heritage found here. Visit the Folk Museum in Cregneash to learn about the traditional skills of crofting. Living on a croft is a very harsh environment requiring those who choose this lifestyle to be self-sufficient. No matter how you spend your time here, taking in the serenity of the place -- the river glens, heather-covered fields, winding country roads, charming cottages, and beautiful gardens will create lasting memories.

The Isle of Man is known for its steam railway. Here railway aficionados delight in a meticulously restored collection of Victorian railways. Explore town using the historic tramway system and take in all of the vintage qualities that make Douglas one of the most picturesque British islands.

In Castletown, step back in time to an era long ago. Here visitors delight in seeing a castle dating back over 400 years. The castle, from which Castletown is named, is in excellent condition and is the most complete castle in the British Isles.
Visit the Manx Museum covering over 10,000 years of history from the stone age to the modern era, including how the Celts and Vikings lived. Visitors will find uniquely Manx products, including Smoked Kippers and Manx Tartans.

Only twelve kilometers north of town is the Laxey Woollen Mills. The Mills were established in 1881 by a silk weaver who wanted to revive the traditional skills of woolen spinning and heirloom weaving. Open year-round visitors can take the Manx Electric Railway or bus service to visit. Here visitors will learn about the production of the Traditional Manx Tartan. Although yarn is not sold, Manx Tweed, travel rugs, scarves, hats, and handbags are popular souvenirs.

Staying in Touch

 Most restaurants and cafes offer internet service.