TOUR ESSENTIALS

WAY TO GO

I travelled on board Manxman with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, from Heysham, Lancashire, to Douglas.

e ferry, which began service in 2023, has plenty of quiet lounges and cabins, including a pet lounge and pet-friendly cabins. e restaurant serves local Manx produce. e crossing takes 3½ hours.

steam-packet.com

Roads on the island are in good condition and unlike the speeds achieved by competitors during the TT races, best driven at a sedate pace.

Although the island is small, it can take a couple of hours to drive from the northernmost point to the south. Car parks are generally free, using a parking disc to notify your arrival time; there are no height barriers. WHEN TO GO

I visited in February and typically, the weather was four seasons in four days, with sunny, cloudless skies mixed with torrential rain, and snow on high ground. Note that many attractions, such as the island’s famous steam railway, the trams and some heritage sites, don’t open until March. Most campsites are closed in winter. However, this is a great time to visit the island for walking, cycling and outdoor activities, with quiet roads and footpaths. Most cafés and restaurants remain open. WHERE I STAYED

Glendown Farm Camping Park glendownfarm.com

Not generally open in the winter, but worth ringing to enquire. I was accepted onsite.

Cronk Aashen Farm Campsite cronkaashen.co.uk

Just off the TT course, with stunning views of the hills and coastline. Open all year. FIND OUT MORE

Visit Isle of Man www.visitisleofman.com