Riding Snaefell, Douglas, Laxey, Port Erin, and Ramsey on the Isle of Man’s Heritage Railways: All You Need To Know

Published on August 11, 2025

The Isle of Man’s heritage railways offer a unique way to explore Snaefell, Douglas, Laxey, Port Erin, and Ramsey in one unforgettable journey. From sea views to mountain peaks, these routes combine history, scenery, and local charm. Each railway has its own story, with vintage engines and carriages still carrying passengers as they have for over a century.

Whether you are riding a steam locomotive to a sandy bay, an electric tram past green fields, a horse tram along the promenade, or a mountain railway to the island’s highest point, you will see the Isle of Man from perspectives no road can match.

Douglas to Port Erin on the Steam Railway

Your journey can begin in Douglas, the island’s capital. From here, the Isle of Man Steam Railway runs 15.5 miles south to Port Erin. This is the oldest narrow-gauge steam line in the British Isles still operating with its original Victorian locomotives and carriages.

The route passes through farmland, rolling hills, and small villages. You can stop at Ballasalla to visit Rushen Abbey, a peaceful site with medieval ruins. In Castletown, explore Castle Rushen, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval castles.

At the line’s end, Port Erin welcomes you with a golden sandy beach, a small railway museum, and a promenade perfect for a leisurely walk. On sunny days, the bay glitters under the afternoon light, making it a perfect spot for photos.

Douglas Promenade on the Horse Tramway

Back in Douglas, you can step onto the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway, the oldest surviving horse tramway in Britain, operating since 1876. The tram runs along the seafront between the Sea Terminal and Derby Castle.

Shire and Clydesdale horses pull beautifully restored carriages. The clip-clop of hooves and the slow, steady pace make this a nostalgic experience. Many royal visitors, including the Queen and the late Queen Mother, have ridden these trams.

Douglas to Laxey and Ramsey on the Manx Electric Railway

From Douglas, the Manx Electric Railway runs north along the coast to Laxey and on to Ramsey. This 17-mile route uses original wooden carriages dating back to the 1890s.

The ride offers sweeping sea views on one side and green countryside on the other. It passes through glens, farmland, and cliffside stretches that feel far removed from modern life.

Laxey is home to the Great Laxey Wheel, the world’s largest working waterwheel. Painted in bright red and white, it is a striking landmark and a symbol of the island’s mining history.

From Laxey, you can continue to Ramsey, the island’s second-largest town. With its long sandy beach, busy harbour, and Victorian pier, Ramsey makes a relaxing final stop before the return trip.

Laxey to Snaefell Summit on the Mountain Railway

In Laxey, you can transfer to the Snaefell Mountain Railway. This is the only electric mountain railway in the British Isles, operating since 1895. The 4.5-mile climb to Snaefell’s summit at 2,036 feet offers open views and fresh mountain air.

From the top, on a clear day, you can see the so-called “Seven Kingdoms”: England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, the sea, and the sky. Along the way, you can spot the Great Laxey Wheel below and sections of the famous Isle of Man TT motorcycle course.

The summit station has a café and a short walking path to the peak. Even in summer, the temperature is cooler here, so bring a jacket.

Why these routes matter

The heritage railways are more than just a way to travel. They are living history, each line with its own preserved engines, carriages, and traditions.

You can visit old historic sites on the steam railway which connects port Erin to Douglas, along with other villages. Horse trams are also available on Manx which connects Douglas, Laxey, and Ramsey. With the sleigh mountain railway, you can have a view of the mountain as well.

Together, they create a network that blends tourism, transport, and heritage. They draw visitors from around the world, helping the local economy and keeping skills like steam engine maintenance alive.

Planning a trip across all five places

In a couple of days, you can visit all five areas: Douglas, Laxey, Port Erin, Ramsey, and Snaefell. Most tourists begin in Douglas; they take the Steam Railway south to Port Erin and the Manx Electric Railway north to Laxey and Ramsey the next.

From Laxey, the Snaefell Mountain Railway can be added as a half-day trip. The Horse Tramway in Douglas fits easily into any schedule, especially as a start or end to the day.

Combined tickets are available that cover multiple lines, making it easier and cheaper to see everything. The season usually runs from spring to autumn, with the busiest period in summer.

Tips for travellers

• Check timetables before you travel, as services vary by season.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring stops along the way.
• Bring a jacket, especially for Snaefell’s summit.
• For families, note that children under five travel free on the Steam Railway.
• Allow extra time for photo stops—views along the routes are worth capturing.

A Lasting Memory

Travelling the Isle of Man’s heritage railways through Snaefell, Douglas, Laxey, Port Erin, and Ramsey is more than sightseeing. It is stepping back into a slower time, hearing the hiss of steam, the hum of electric motors, and the gentle rhythm of a horse’s hooves.

It is about meeting people who love these trains, learning their stories, and feeling connected to the island’s past. For many, the journey itself becomes the highlight of their visit, leaving lasting memories of the Isle of Man.

Image Credit: www.visitisleofman.com