Although a lot of us connect the island with the yearly motorbike races that occur here every year, there's in fact heaps more to grab your interest. One thing that certainly makes it so special is the long-time history of democracy, which was created by the Norse settlers who originally landed on the isle within the eighth century.
Approximately one thousand years ago, they set up Tynwald - a method of self-governance which has emerged as the oldest continuous parliament in the world. By looking for cruise holiday deals that see your group land on the isle in time for July 5th - the island's National Day - you'll be able to experience an annual ceremony at Tynwald Hill where politicians publically proclaim all the new laws that were agreed within the preceding 12 months.
This ancient mound is said to contain samples of mud from all of the island's 17 parishes - and so, as soon as the event has come to an end, you can go on a stroll around it and snap some photographs.
The influence of the Norse settlers on the isle can unmistakably be seen to this present day, though the locality also offers very strong marine and Celtic associations. Experience the House of Manannan in Peel and you'll know about all 3 cultures as well as the impact they've got on the isle, both past & present.
Along with the many points of interest to be seen here are a reproduction of a 19th-century dock and also a preserved Celtic roundhouse. It's also possible to take in a traditional Viking longhouse and learn more about ancient smuggling & shipping customs. The cultural institution's curious name comes from Manannan, a shape-shifting sea god who could swathe the isle using a cloak of mist to protect it from its enemies.
From here, explore the Manx Transport Heritage Museum. The establishment has exhibits covering all types of Manx transportation & contains a P50, a 3-wheel automobile that was first made in Peel during the 1960s and holds the record for being the littlest road-legal automobile in the world.
To gain a deeper insight into the region's past, call on the 14th-century Peel Castle. Situated on an isle overlooking the town's harbour, this medieval building has a number of structures made from pink stone. Though a number of elements of the complex have at this point fallen into ruin, you'll find still many you can view equally on the inside and out. Clamber to the top of the Gatehouse Tower for the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the remainder of Peel along with the Irish Sea.
As the first city and biggest town on the Isle of Man, a tour of Douglas is a good way to get acquainted with the island's past. Spend time looking at the artefacts on show at the Manx Museum - an establishment that examines the island's archaeological, social & natural history - previous to meandering on the Douglas Promenade in the world's oldest horse-drawn trams. Once you've done taking in the aspects here, head back on to your UK cruise ship to set sail for the next location on your brilliant little adventure.
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For more information about UK cruise holidays, get in touch with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
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