The Isle of Man is home to some of Britain’s most beautiful scenery. The best way to enjoy it is either to hire a car and drive around the island or to don hiking boots and start walking any of the several hiking trails that cover the best the island has to offer.
The most popular is called ‘The Way of the Gull’ and is 95 miles long. If you’re less active, take the tram to the top of the island’s highest peak, Snaefell, from which you can see the whole of the island and England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
Isle Of Man Airport Mini Guide
Why do People Visit the Isle of Man?
People go there for the stunning scenery and the chance to hike many of the trails that criss-cross the island. The main target for all is to reach the peak of Snaefell for Britain’s most unique view. It’s the only place in the kingdom where all of the countries comprising it can be seen from one spot. Others come here for the annual TT motorbike races which are thrilling, highly competitive and often dangerous.
How can I get to the Island?
There are two ways, either by taking the ferry from Liverpool, Heysham, Belfast or Dublin or by plane to Ronaldsway Airport from many regional UK airports. Once on the island, it’s a short trip into the capital, Douglas, or by bus or hire car to the many smaller towns and villages on the island.
What’s the Airport Like?
The airport is a little tired looking on the outside but is quite bright and modern inside. When you first arrive you’ll think you’ve reached an eastern European airport as it is blocky and functional. They have facilities for those with reduced mobility who need assistance around the airport. If you require this service you should give the airport at least 48 hours’ notice.
What Should I do on Arrival?
The public information desk is easily found in the main hall and as well as answering general airport enquiries can also help with accommodation and onward travel as well as recommending things to do whilst on the island. After collecting your baggage you can get some money from the ATM in the main hall before organising your onward travel. The desks of the car hire companies are easily located and being a small but busy airport we’d recommend that you book any car hire requirements in advance. There are several bus routes operating on a daily or Monday to Saturday schedule to and from the airport which have several stops across the island. Taxis are also available here, ideal for short journeys.
What About on my Return Journey?
The airport has fairly basic facilities for those waiting for their flights. There’s a small self-service café/restaurant called Café Oasis which serves a range of hot and cold meals as well as sandwiches and cakes. There’s a single shop next door to the café which sells newspapers, gifts, perfumery and tobacco products but as the airport is mainly domestic orientated it’s not classed as a duty free shop.
For parents with babies and toddlers there’s a dedicated room where they can be changed or calmed from the stress of travel. For business people there is an executive lounge with communication facilities and Wi-Fi is available in selected areas free of charge so you’ll have the opportunity to check emails, social network sites and access the internet.
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