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A simple and effective way to get acquainted with Isle of Man, its people and countryside would be to explore the island by rail. The steam railway operates from Douglas to Port Erin and the Manx Electric Railway runs from Douglas to Ramsey. |
Other services include the unique Snaefell Mountain Railway and the Groundle Glen Railway that provides a limited service along a scenic track near Douglas in summer.
Groudle Glen Railway
The Groudle Glen Railway dating back to 1896 still uses the original 2-foot gauge engine "Sea Lion" to carry its passengers along the 3/4 mile line which runs from the picturesque glen to the spectacular Groudle cliff tops before reaching journey's end at the former polar bear and sea lion enclosures.
This little railway can be enjoyed on Sundays throughout the summer and also Wednesday evenings in July and August. Operated by a group of volunteers, Groudle Glen demonstrates the charm of the Victorian era and the magnificence of the thickly wooded countryside of the island.
Snaefell Mountain Railway
Snaefell at 2036 foot is the highest peak on the Isle of Man. The mountain railway is the only way to reach the summit. Conceived and constructed in seven months, back in 1895, an extra rail was laid to enable steam loco "Caledonia" to haul rail to the summit of Snaefell.
The original tramcars still climb the steep 1 in 12 gradient to the top. You can enjoy breathtaking views as you travel towards the peak. You can see the Island's largest glacial valley, the beautiful Sulby Reservoir and spectacular vistas of the north of the Island over Tholt-y-Will to the sandy plains of Jurby, the sandcliffs of Bride, and the Point of Ayre.
The Snaefell Mountain Railway may be taken from Laxey Station or from the Bungalow on the TT Course. At the peak of your journey, the Summit Cafe offers refreshments. There is also an exhibition that reflects the construction of this oldest operating mountain railway in the British Isles.
The Orchid Line
This is a minature railway operated by volunteers. This runs through the Curraghs Wildlife Park at Ballaugh on Sundays during the holiday season.
