Port of Douglas

About Douglas, Guide and Tourist Attractions
(Douglas, Isle of Man, British Isles)

Located on the Isle of Man, Douglas is a unique place that acts as a holiday resort, finance centre and a working harbour, offering visitors plenty of things to see and do.

Famous as a tax haven, the island and city contain evidence of Celtic and Viking influence as well as some quirky tourist attractions.

What to Do in Douglas

Each year, the Isle of Man hosts the world-famous TT motorcycle races, attracting world-class riders and hordes of spectators. The area is more relaxed at other times of the year and visitors can enjoy the serenity of Douglas Bay, set against a background of green hills. Since Victorian times, Douglas has been a pioneer in illuminations and at night, the town comes alive with floodlights, presenting a scene of spectacular beauty.

The promenade in Douglas offers a view of the Tower of Refuge, which emerges from the sea with the fall of the tide. Parading the length of the seafront are the Douglas horse trams, which are now the only horse-drawn trams in existence.

Tourist Attractions

Located near the centre of the city, the Gaiety Theatre is a fine example of Edwardian splendour and should not be missed. Noble's Park, with its range of amusements, and the lovely gardens at the Villa Marina as well as the award-winning Manx Museum are also highlights.

Douglas also offers scuba diving and fishing as wall as numerous country walks in and around the town, allowing visitors to appreciate the island's wonderful scenery and enchanting glens. Shoppers are well catered for at the city's new central shopping centre and the cuisine in town is often uniquely Manx, served in a myriad of restaurants and cosy cafés. In particular, try the renowned Manx kippers for breakfast, but bear in mind you might still be able to smell them on you several hours after!

The charming Manx Electric Railway to Laxey and Ramsey runs from Douglas, making for an excellent daytrip. Nearby, the Curraghs Wildlife Park in Ballaugh is a wonderful natural wetland containing some of Europe's rarest birdlife including many endangered species. Also of popular interest is the Laxey Wheel, the world's largest working water wheel, and the Isle of Man Steam Railway, which is an immediate time warp back to Victorian days of travel. Animal lovers should be sure not to miss the Manx cats, which are known for not having tails.