Isle of Man Attractions

The Curraghs Wildlife Park is situated next to the Ballaugh Curraghs and is a 26 acre plot that opened as a wildlife park in 1965. The park is similar to a zoo but more like the safari park style layout. The animals live in large enclosures designed with their natural habitats in mind. Paved paths create a trail passing the enclosures, where the animals roam freely. The various feeding times offer an interactive view of the animals, especially with the penguins who are particularly lively during this period. The nature trails wind through different parts of the Curraghs, where butterflies, birds and other wetland insect and animals can be seen. The park offers a relaxing time out in nature with a chance to see a variety of animals.

Rushen Abbey, now a heritage centre (part of the 'Story of Mann') with a building containing artefacts and telling the history of Rushen Abbey and the surrounding area, was originally founded in 1134. The remains of the original abbey have been restored and walkways constructed to allow visitors to get a close look. Between April and October the abbey is open to the public and an admission fee is payable. Before accessing the abbey gardens, visitors must walk through a museum that explains the role of the abbey. There is interactive, audio and video material available. At the museum's conclusion, there is an area designed for children, allowing them to build an arch and discover the monastery's history in a way that is more appealing to them. Rushen Abbey was originally home for monks of the Savignac order and is located just two miles from Castle Rushen; the most im...

Castle Rushen is a medieval castle located in the Isle of Man's historic capital, Castletown in the S of the island. It towers over the Market Square to the SE and the harbour to the NE. The castle is amongst the best examples of medieval castles on the British Isles, and is still in use as a court house, museum and educational centre. Construction of the castle is believed to have begun around the reign of the last Norse kings of Mann Magnus III who died in the castle in 1265 A.D., being buried in the nearby Rushen Abbey. In 1988, the control of the castle was handed over to the Manx National Heritage for restoration, opening in July 1991 by the Rt Hon. Earl of Derby MC as the first major Manx heritage site. Castle Rushen is one of four Manx National Heritage sites in Castletown, the others being the Nautical Museum, The Old Grammar School and the Old House of Keys. Today...