Isle of Man Coastal Path: The Way of The Seagull

Begin your journey in Douglas, the largest town on the Isle of Man, arriving via Ronaldsway Airport or Douglas Sea Terminal. Spend the day exploring the town's Victorian charm, strolling along the resplendent two-mile promenade and beachfront. Don't miss the Manx Museum, where you can delve into Manx history and myths. Accommodation for the night will be in one of the small hotels on or just off the seafront in Douglas (or similar), offering comfortable rooms with ensuite facilities.

Embark on a solid day's walk to the beautiful town of Castletown, the former capital of the Isle of Man. The journey begins on a quiet road called 'Marine Drive', the route of an abandoned railway line. As you approach Castletown, you'll pass by the Isle of Man airport runway and enter the town via the coastal road. Explore the narrow streets, the picturesque harbor, and small fishing cottages. Visit Castle Rushen, built in 1265 for a Norse king, and The House Of Keys, the site of the Tynwald parliament. Accommodation for the night will be at The George Hotel (or similar), a small pub hotel overlooking Castle Rushen and the town's main square.

Prepare for the most challenging day of the tour, a long walk over the remote coastal fells with three significant ascents and descents. The reward is stunning views from the summit of 'Cronk ny Arrey Laa', the highest point on the whole route. The day's journey ends with a memorable descent into Peel, with its red sandstone buildings and Peel Castle on St.Patrick's Island. Accommodation for the night will be in one of the few tourist hotels on the seafront in Peel (or similar), offering comfortable rooms and hearty breakfasts.

Day five takes you from Peel along the red coastal cliff path before joining the old railway line path of the 'Steam Heritage Trail' until the village of Kirk Michael. Visit the old church containing some ancient Celtic crosses before reaching the sea near Orrisdale Head. Continue along the beach to Jurby, then take a bus to Ramsey where you'll be staying for two nights. Accommodation will be at the beautiful townhouse, Summerlands B&B (or similar), where your hosts are happy to share their knowledge about the island and fishing.

Return to Jurby for the longest walk of the trip, virtually all on either the beach or along the foreshore dunes. This remote walk offers good wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly birds and seals. Reach Point of Ayre, the most northerly point of the island, where the sea currents mix. Depending on the weather and tide conditions, you may need to bypass 'Shellag Point' on the coast road. After the day's walk, return to Ramsey for another night at Summerlands B&B (or similar).

Return to Laxey for the final stage of the 'Raad ny Foillan'. Start from Laxey Bay and enjoy attractions such as peaceful Garwick Glen, the Ballannette Wetlands, and the beautiful Lonan Old Church of St.Adamnan. The coastal path offers a short final flourish off the main road before Onchan. From Onchan, follow along the sea promenade for the long walk back into Douglas. Accommodation will be in one of the small hotels on or just off the seafront in Douglas (or similar).