Top Things to do in Douglas
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Top 10 Free Things to do in Douglas, Isle of Man
Nestled along the east coast of the Isle of Man, the small holiday resort of Douglas oozes charm. Visitors may enjoy horse-drawn tram rides along its pedestrian shopping promenade, dotted with restored 19th century buildings and lining the shore with independent boutiques and High Street shops. The new Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre Complex entertain with all sorts of performing arts and films, while the gardens and museums sprinkled throughout the town promise relaxation and culture.
Restaurants in Douglas
1. The Tynwald Library
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 19 reviews
Take a free guided tour of the historic Tynwald Chambers, the national parliament of the Isle of Man and the oldest continuous parliament in the world! The tour encompasses the three chambers of Tynwald: the House of Keys, the Legislative Council and the Court of Tynwald. While on the tour, you'll learn the history of the Isle of Man's political system and how it came into existence as well as the history of these landmark buildings. The tours last approximately 1:30 to 2 hours and commence on Mondays at 2:00pm and Fridays at 11:00am. Tours at other times may be possible, call ahead to check availability.
2. Calf of Man Bird Observatory and Nature Reserve
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 28 reviews
The island is a nature reserve and a bird observatory. You can visit for the day or stay overnight. It is an important breeding site for seabirds and tens of thousands of birds occur on migration. The Calf also has numerous sites of historical interest including two lighthouses built in 1818 by Robert Stevenson.
Reviewed By IOMtravelgirl - Douglas, United Kingdom
We only went for the 3 hour stopover but it was a great day. I recommend the boat trip from Port St. Mary. It was a nice trip with seals and different sea birds as well as a peregrine falcon. Once on the Calf you can walk around and it could take around 2 hours. Of course it wasn't so isolated as we were about 20 walking around, although all spread out so you wouldn't have known it. Beautiful rugged scenery and views and plenty of curious seals popping up their heads. If you like basic living you can stay for a couple of nights. We are now thinking about it.
3. Manx Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 963 reviews
From Viking treasure finds, natural wonders of the world, the famous TT Races and wartime internment – you’ll find something to appeal to everyone at the Manx Museum.The museum has plenty of interactive displays, films and a wide range of exhibits which will help you uncover the Isle of Man’s history and heritage.Make a beeline for the Manx Museum early on in your visit as it’s a great starting point if you are looking to explore the Island’s heritage attractions. The National Art Gallery in the museum contains work from a number of famous artists including Archibald Knox, William Hoggat and John Miller Nicholson and there’s also a national library and well stocked archives for those visitors keen to explore the Island’s history further.There is also tearoom and gift shop located within the museum. NB. Library & Archives Open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am – 4.30pm
Reviewed By 675shayd - Barcelona, Spain
The museum is well worth a visit , we were meet my a friendly gentleman at the front desk and advised us to have a look at the short film about the history of the island .This was very informative and we were able to identify places later when we were travelling around the island , The collection has been very well presented and is a credit to the island
4. The Rover's Return
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Reviewed By mad_mikeManchester - Heald Green, United Kingdom
On the IOM for a day trip we were finding it difficult to spot a place to eat and drink and then walked round a corner and found The Rovers Return Not a place for those who prefer expensive cocktails but a real pub for people who like good beer.There were eight pumps working on the day, though I was not familiar with any of the beers. I told the young lady the type of beer I prefered and she pulled me a pint - spot on! Food is simple and goes well with the beer. My Chilli was served piping hot - excellent. No problem about returning here if I return to the island.
5. Home of Rest of Old Horses
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 278 reviews
Reviewed By mw314
We are regular visitors with one or more of our grandchildren and always enjoy seeing and feeding the horses and donkeys. The shop provides containers of food for the animals while the cafe looks after the food and drink needs for us. There are some sheds with books and bric a brac for sale while others contain rocking horses for use by children.
6. A.R.E Motorcycle Collection
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Reviewed By Mandy50_12
Although the museum was closed the owner kindly showed us around as we were from Guernsey. He was very friendly and informative and the bikes were in fantastic condition. Definitely worth visiting if you like classic bikes.
7. Isle of Man Welcome Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 223 reviews
Reviewed By PeteH92 - Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom
We were staying on the Isle of Man for 4 days so called into the welcome centre to get information about things to do. Very helpful staff advised us on the various things to see and do, and we suggested we bought a Go Explore card which saved us money.
8. Heritage Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By martinrR8801FG - Oxford, United Kingdom
As I trace old dismantled railway lines this was a good walk. I walked it in one day. This included two detours on old lines which you can also walk most of to Foxdale and Knockaloe. Knockaloe was an internment camp in the war.
9. The Sayle Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12 reviews
The Sayle Gallery has established itself as a leading contributor to the artistic community of the Isle of Man. The Gallery presents 10 primary exhibitions each year, as well as frequent smaller exhibits, of booth artistic and social interest. The intent of the Gallery is to serve as a place to regularly exhibit the artwork of local Artists and as a venue to host a range of artistic events.
10. Douglas Head
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By brodybunch1117
Visited Douglas head with our wee dog ,Great views , interesting walks and plenty of history .Would have like to visit the camera obscura ,but was closed unfortunately .Plenty more to see ,the lighthouse ,the amphitheatre ,the gatehouse to marine drive ,the former HMS Valkyrie building ,the poppy and fantastic views over Douglas harbour and promenade .Best of all ,it costs nothing ,just park up and enjoy .
