Isle of Man Walking Holiday .  

On July 7^th, 10 members of the Team Walking Group set off for a week of walking on the Isle of Man.  We travelled north to take the ferry from Heysham , enjoying a smooth crossing into Douglas.  We all stayed at a small Guest House on the sea front with lovely views across the bay and of the evening illuminations.

Our target the first day was to reach the summit of Snaefell, the highest point of the island. We were rewarded with beautiful views from the top of the 6 Kingdoms: Heaven , England , Scotland , Wales, Ireland and the Isle of Man. Some include Neptune ’s Kingdom as the 7^th!  
This sunny dry weather continued for the rest of the week, apart from Friday.  We completed the 28 miles of the Millennium Way over two further days. The terrain became gentler as we progressed south but the farmland on the final stretch presented us with some very boggy challenges! This long distance path which began at Ramsey finished in the delightful settlement of Castletown with its harbour and ancient castle.  

Move cursor over image to see the Douglas steam train:

Other days we did with some spectacular coastal walks, passing the Calf of Man, watching for basking sharks. One was seen near Port Erin, below the high cliffs in the clear blue sea water.  A group of seals inquisitively watched us wend our way along the northern cliffs towards Ramsey.

We found time to explore the attractions of the Island , including the Laxey Wheel, the electric train and the quaint harbours, such as Peel. On the wet Friday the ladies found a wonderful outlet shopping centre.

Local beers were enjoyed in the evenings, especially on the occasion of a Brewery tour. One night we enjoyed a singsong, lead by our own accomplished guitar player Keith Haines. Our culinary tastes were also well catered for, as we ate Italian, Texan, Chinese, Indian and Spanish meals as well as good British fish and chips.  

Watch Ian's last night barbeque:

The week ended with attendance at the Parish Church or the Gospel Hall on Sunday morning before we boarded the hydrofoil back to Liverpool .  

Excitement as the ferry is loaded:

Many thanks to Ian Tucker who arranged the week so meticulously, right down to the sunshine.  

Our normal programme continues with a walk on the last Saturday of each month over distances of 4-8 miles. Starting at St John’s Church at 10am.All are welcome to join in.

                                                                                                 Kathy Slater