Douglas, Isle of Man: 12 Aug 2010 to 13 Aug 2010

This tiny island in the Irish Sea, midway between Ireland and England, is a self-governing British crown dependency, with Queen Elizabeth II serving as its titular head of state. Just 221 square miles (570 km2) the island nevertheless packs a great deal of historical and bucolic appeal. A wealth of evidence remains from the earliest inhabitatants, including settlements and burial sites from Stone Age, Bronze, Iron and Neolithic times. Vikings arrived around 800 AD, establishing the Tynwald, the oldest continuous parliament in Europe, during their 450 years in residence.

The island’s capital, Douglas, boasts a charming seafront lined with appealing shops and cafés. Venture a bit beyond town to see Lady Isabella, the world’s largest working water wheel, a feat of Victorian engineering. Railroad buffs will want to hitch a ride on one (or all) of the island’s celebrated steam and electric trains. Feline aficionados will be on the alert for the tailless eponymous creatures known as stubbins in the Manx language.

Excursions:
THE NOT-SO-SECRET LIFE OF BEES

CASTLETOWN AND I.O.M. STEAM RAILWAY

LAXEY PHOTO TRAIL