Isle of Man Steam Railway, Douglas

The IOM Steam Railway was not only a must-see attraction for my one-day visit to the Isle of Man, it was also my primary means of getting around (especially after breaking a toe on the beach at Port Erin)! Embarking at Castletown station, I rode westward to the aforementioned Port Erin to climb the steps of Milner's Tower, stop for lunch at "The Station" hotel, then turned around and made my way to Douglas, in search of the real, original "Fairy Bridge" (not the imitation one on the A5 northeast of Ballasalla). My dirt cheap rail ticket (~£16-ish, I believe) covered my entire journey, both ways, taking 20-ish minutes to get from Castletown to Port Erin, and 45 minutes to cross half the island from Port Erin back to Douglas. Having ridden many trains before, the experience of a true locomotive, chugging away like an out-of-breath jogger, belching steam with each wail of the horn, as the idyllic, pastural landscape of the Isle of Man slipped by me on a perfect, clear, sunny day, I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful experience. I felt as if I had slipped back in time several decades to a simpler era, free of the burdens of modern "convenience", despite snapping away with my cell phone, taking pictures and video of everything sheep and signpost on the way! For those who find themselves on this time-lost isle, the IOM Railway is among the crown jewels of experiences one can have here. Very, very recommended for young and old alike!

This historic railway follows a scenic route and is a good way to visit the south of the island. The station in Douglas is situated a short way from the harbour The rolling stock and station's are maintained to a high standard with helpful staff The train tickets can also be used on the local buses which we found useful

What a blast. You really get to see the countryside.

I love old railway, very kind service. Really enjoyed travelling from Port Erin to Douglas

The railway is unique a total pleasure..The staff are great.... But the system is very poorly managed at this present time...make the most of it now, I fear for its future!