Castletown or Balley Chashtal in Manx is one of the oldest towns in the island and was once the capital with its government and administration centred there. Its castle was also home to the Viking kings and the Earls of Derby who ruled as Lords of Man until the 1800s. Its continued use has ensuerd the preservation of the castle, which now ranks alongside the best in Europe.
Other important features of Castletown include the Old Grammar School, Old Tynwald (Parliament) and the Nautical Museum, which houses the 18th-century schooner Peggy, discovered in the 1930s in the cellar of the museum! For the rambler there are many opportunities for short and long walks, from a gentle two-mile (3.2 km) stroll to the beautiful nearby Rushen Abbey, or a walk along the rugged coastal path to Port St Mary or further. The beautiful limestone buildings are a great attraction to the film industry, which uses Castletown as a perfect period backdrop.
Must see and do
- Castle Rushen
- Old Tynwald Building
- The Old Grammar School
- Nautical Museum
- Millennium Way Walk
- Silverburn Walk
- Coastal Path
- Scenic Harbour