Culture and History on the Isle of Man

The Isle of Man has a rich history spanning many thousands of years. From Celtic crosses to Viking burial grounds, castles and thatched cottages – you’ll find it all here!

Witness The Great Laxey Wheel

We’re proud to say the Isle of Man is home to the world’s largest working waterwheel. The Great Laxey Wheel (or Lady Isabella as she’s affectionately known) provides a fascinating example of Victorian engineering. If you’re feeling energetic, climb to the top – but beware, you might get splashed!

Discover castles on the Isle of Man

There are two castles on the Isle of Man: Castle Rushen, in Castletown, and Peel Castle, on the west coast.

Both provide a fascinating journey back through our island’s history, giving you a real insight into life on the Isle of Man throughout the ages.

Step back in time at Cregneash

This tiny hamlet is located at the southern-most tip of the Isle of Man, overlooking the Calf of Man. Wandering through Cregneash village, exploring the whitewashed thatched cottages and crofters’ buildings, you’ll feel as though you’ve really stepped back in time.

Learn about those who lived at Cregneash and their way of life, with stories, skills and craft demonstrations, and get up close to indigenous Manx breeds such as Loghtan sheep and the famous Manx cats.

Visit a museum on the Isle of Man

Manx National Heritage, which protects, conserves and celebrates the Isle of Man’s natural and cultural heritage, provides numerous museums all over the island:

In the north, in Ramsey, visit the Grove Museum of Victorian Life, providing the chance to witness close-up how the Gibbs – a wealthy merchant family from Liverpool – lived from the Victorian times through to the 20th century.

In the island’s capital, Douglas, head to the Manx Museum. This free attraction is overflowing with Manx artefacts and treasures and will take you on a fascinating journey through the Isle of Man’s history, bringing our heritage to life through film, galleries and interactive displays.

On the west coast, in Peel, the House of Manannan makes for a great family day out. Let the island’s mythological sea god, Manannan, welcome you to his kingdom and take you through the Isle of Man’s rich and varied past.

And, in the south of the island, you can choose from the Nautical Museum in Castletown and the medieval monastery – Rushen Abbey in Ballasalla.