Discover more than 100,000 years of Manx history and step back in time as you journey around some of the Island’s most important heritage sites, ancient monuments and museums. The Isle of Man’s historical and cultural attractions are only matched by its abundance of excellent public areas, with 17 national glens and a number of well maintained parks and gardens which are perfect for a day out.

Wildlife enthusiasts will also find something to suit as the Sound is a perfect place for seal spotting. The Ayres in the north is an excellent location for bird-watching, and Curragh’s Wildlife Park features animals from around the globe.

Meayll Circle

Meayll Circle stands near the summit of Meayll Hill facing the south of the Island and provides archaeological evidence of occupation from Neolithic to Medieval times. The Manx name of this structure is Rhullick-y-lagg-shliggagh which translates to “the graveyard of the valley of broken slates.” Address: Cragneash, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-648000 Website: http://www.manxnationalheritage.com

Balladoole

Near Castletown, Balladoole is one of the Isle of Man’s most impressive ancient monuments. Modern excavations have revealed a number of significant finds including prehistoric flints, Bronze Age burials, Iron Age earthworks, and early Christian lintel graves. Address: Castletown, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-648000 Website: http://www.manxnationalheritage.com

Bradda Glen

Take a trip on the Steam Railway to Port Erin and the stunning Bradda Glen is only a few minutes away. Listen to the native bird song as you walk along the tree lined winding coastal path which leads up to the headland at Milner’s Tower. Address: Port Erin, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-648000 Website: http://www.manxnationalheritage.com

Sound Visitor Centre

The Sound Visitor Centre in Port St Mary is one of the most picturesque points in the south of the Isle of Man. The large cafe built into the headland offers 180° panoramic views of the surrounding area and is perfect for those looking for a full meal, light snack or just a cup of tea. Adjoining the café is the visitor centre which contains a wealth of information about the history of the area, including the Calf of Man which is directly across. Address: Port St Mary, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-686766 Website: http://www.visitisleofman.com

Castle Rushen

On the Isle of Man’s ancient capital Castletown, Castle Rushen is an impressive fortress that was once home to the Kings and Lords of Mann. Originally built for a Norse king in 1265, Castle Rushen was constructed by successive rulers between the 13th and 16th centuries. During its time it was used as a fortress, royal residence and prison. Address: Castletown, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-686766 Website: http://www.visitisleofman.com

Laxey Wheel

Designed by the Victorian engineer Robert Casement, Laxey Wheel, also known as Lady Isabella, was built in 1854 to pump water from Glen Mooar which was part of the Great Laxey Mines industrial complex. Standing over 72 feet high, the wheel has been one of the Isle of Man’s most popular attractions for over 150 years. Address: Laxey, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-686766 Website: www.visitisleofman.com

Manx Museum

At the Manx Museum you’ll see Viking discoveries, natural wonders of the world, the famous TT Races, and wartime paraphernalia. The museum has plenty of interactive displays, films and a wide range of exhibits which will help you uncover the Isle of Man’s history and heritage. Address: Kingswood Grove, Douglas, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-648000 Website: http://www.manxnationalheritage.com

National Art Gallery

The National Art Gallery is located in the Manx museum and contains work from a number of famous artists including Archibald Knox, William Hoggat and John Miller Nicholson. There’s also a national library and well stocked archives for those who wish to delve deeper into the history of the Isle of Man. Address: Kingswood Grove, Douglas, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-648000 Website: http://www.manxnationalheritage.com

Onchan Pleasure Park

Onchan Pleasure Park has its own boating lake complete with motorboats, go-karts, a crazy golf course and children’s play area. There are also excellent sports facilities including squash and tennis courts and a bowling green for a great family day out. Address: Onchan, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-01624-67556 Website: http://www.onchan.org.im

Niarbyl Visitor Centre

Niarbyl Visitor Centre, in the west of the Island, is one of the most important geological sites in the Isle of Man. Translating to “the tail” in Manx, it refers to the unusual tail of rocks jutting out into the Irish sea which are from ancient continents that were forced together by shifts in the earth’s crust some 140 million years ago. Niarbyl is also a prime location for spotting wildlife like basking sharks, dolphins and seals. Address: Dalby, Isle of Man Telephone: +44-1624-648000 Website: http://www.manxnationalheritage.com