The UK is experiencing a heatwave with temperatures hitting 31C in parts of the country. Even the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued yellow heat health alerts across most of England.
So, have you ever thought about a staycation this year? The list of benefits is endless, not only can you say goodbye to airport queues, plane delays and luggage allowances, but the UK has plenty to offer.
While of course, the weather is hit and miss, we are all probably getting ahead of ourselves with the warmer temperatures, the fact that you don’t have to travel far is game-changing.
In particular, one hidden spot in the UK that often gets forgotten is the Isle of Man. Not only is it the perfect secret staycation travel destination where you can avoid the summer crowds.
The island itself has a 10,000-year-old history of folklore, fairy tales and Vikings on offer. Let’s look at what the Isle of Man has to offer.
Things to do in the Isle of Man
There are plenty of unique experiences that you can go and enjoy on the island. Heritage Railways is a great way to discover the Isle of Man’s landscape, from its sandy beaches to the top of the Snaefell Mountain, the tallest mountain on the island.
Last year was the ‘Year of the Railways’ on the Island, with the Steam Railway celebrating its 150th Anniversary, and the Manx Electric Railway celebrating its 130th.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking to do something out of the ordinary why not go cold water swimming?
Spooyt Vane Pool at Glen Mooar offers 100 miles of coastline with 32 beaches and 18 scenic glens. The spot is at the bottom of one of the highest waterfalls on the island with Tripadvisor travellers giving it a four out of five.
According to the reviews, one traveller wrote it’s a “hidden gem”. Another said: “Didn’t stay long but was well worth it and very pretty.”
A third added: “A little difficult to find, hope my pictures make it easier. Involves some walking, but is definitely worth the visit.”
A user commented: “The short steep path opens into a quiet and magical pool fed by the lovely Spooyt Vane waterfall. No other visitors while we were there – it’s a place you could dream away an hour or a day if so inclined.”
Some of the best beaches to visit include Port Erin Beach, you can find it on the southwest of the island.
It is overlooked by the cliffs of Bradda Head, alongside a promenade of shops, ice cream parlours and restaurants.
How to get to the Isle of Man
There are few options for getting to the island. The most popular way is by ferry. You can go from Belfast, Dublin, Heysham and Liverpool, with the crossing time from mainland UK and Ireland taking just under three hours.
Of course, you can also fly to the Isle of Man with the airport south of the island. Airlines Loganair, easyJet and Emerald Airlines fly there. Here is a list of airlines and locations which fly to the Isle of Man.
Loganair
- Liverpool
- Manchester
- Edinburgh
- Birmingham
- London City
- London Heathrow
easyJet
- Belfast International
- Bristol
- Liverpool
- London Gatwick
- Manchester
Emerald Airlines
Where to stay in the Isle of Man
There are several hotels, B&Bs and rental homes you can stay on the island.
Let’s not forget if you’re keen to get out in the great outdoors, then you can stay in a range of glamping and camping options, including Knockaloe Beg Farm offers luxury Wigwams in the Manx countryside. Prices for staying here start from £65 a night.
Elsewhere, if you’re looking for a spot of luxury then a four-star hotel The Claremont is a great offering with rooms starting from £126 per night.
Meanwhile, The Mannin is a traditional hotel with B&B doubles starting from £105.