An intrepid group of 39 members braved the morning rain and set out on the long journey to our hotel in Ramsey on the Isle of Man , leaving at 6.46am and arriving at 7.00pm. The coach was comfortable and the stops useful, with the ferry crossing as smooth as it could possibly be. We were lucky enough to have missed the storms which preceded and followed us, but there were consequences as the power to the Snaefell mountain railway which was on our itinerary for Tuesday was damaged.
Our super team (Susan , Gillian and Sue ) adapted the plans with the help of our tour company and we spent the Tuesday morning visiting the delightful Milntown estate gardens and the house, which they opened especially. Our afternoon was passed in Peel, where there were various sites on offer: The House of Manannan museum, which reconstructed life in Celtic, Viking and maritime past : Peel castle which was once a royal residence and the island’s seat of government, the harbour with views of the Calf of Man, sea spay crashing on the rocks, boats of various sizes, gulls, ducks and even a seal.
Wednesday was a full day ; firstly a trip on the Isle of Man Stream Train from Douglas to Port Erin. Think leather straps on windows and gritty steam in your eyes. Then onward to Cregneash folk museum. This is a collection of thatched Manx cottages with various trades and crafts inside. Here were rare 4 horned Loghtan sheep, Harry Kelly’s cottage and a delightful church with a Celtic standing stone. After lunch in Castletown some visited the castle while others walked along the sea, or through the town and park. In 2 groups we visited the House of Keys where the Manx Parliament met for some time. We were led through some the historical events by the clerk; listening to video presentations, debating and voting as we went.
Thursday was all about trains and engineering. Firstly up the Snaefell Mountain where some members braved the wind and climbed to the summit, then to the Laxey Wheel. which is the largest working water wheel in the world at 72 feet 6inches. Built in Victorian times to pump water from the zinc mine it has been renovated and still in motion. Finally we boarded the Manx electric train to Ramsey, viewing the rolling green countryside, the sea and the sunshine as we travelled.
Friday was the long journey home. Our thanks to the very professional driver, Mark and the team : Susan, Gillian and Sue for all their hard work beforehand and unflappableness during the trip.