The Isle of Man

Our Isle of Man holiday starts when we meet our Tour Manager and the rest of our group in Heysham, Lancashire, before boarding the early afternoon ferry to the peaceful Isle of Man. We sail across the Irish Sea towards the rugged coastline of Douglas, the island's capital.

During our crossing, you could look out for seabirds and possibly dolphins, along with glimpses of the island.

Enjoy views of the Isle of Man's rolling landscapes as we are transferred by coach to our historic hotel where we spend the next five nights. Set 100 metres from the seafront, the hotel has been a popular landmark in Douglas for over a century, and is the perfect base to explore the many attractions of the island.

A three-course dinner is served this evening, and every night of our holiday, at the hotel restaurant.

• Dinner

Today we transfer to the station, where we board the Isle of Man Steam Railway for a journey along the stunning southwest coast, passing seaside towns and fishing villages before reaching Port Erin, set in a beautiful bay.

After some free time in Port Erin, we continue by coach around the headland to see the Calf of Man, a small island located at the southern tip of the Isle of Man. There's time here, at a wonderful viewing spot, to take in the wild beauty of the craggy cliffs and small green island.

At lunchtime we arrive in Castletown, the island's ancient capital, where you are free to explore independently. Entry is included at The Old House of Keys - the former meeting place of the Manx parliament. Built in the 19th century, the house has been restored to its former glory and displays original furnishings, portraits, and documents. During your free time in Castletown you could also visit the imposing medieval fortress, Castle Rushen, in its walled-enclosure above the harbour.

We are transferred back to our hotel with time to unwind before dinner.

• Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast this morning, your first stop is Tynwald Hill in the village of St John's. Here, our driver shares some insight into the village's history before continuing to the traditional fishing port of Peel.

Known for its 11th-century castle, with time at leisure to explore Peel, you could visit the medieval fortress. You could also visit the House of Manannan - a museum dedicated to the island's rich history and culture with interactive exhibits, immersive displays, and stunning artefacts.

Later, we head to Ramsey, a charming coastal town. There's time to look around its picturesque harbour, across to its vast beach, or wander its quaint streets, before you board the Manx Electric Railway back to Douglas. Our journey back takes us through glorious countryside, across gorse-topped along the island's rugged coastline.

Later, we enjoy dinner at our hotel.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today we experience the Manx Electric Railway once again, on a scenic journey to the fishing village of Laxey. Here we board the Snaefell Mountain Railway - the only electric mountain railway in the British Isles.

The railway takes us through beautiful landscapes and steep gradients up to the summit. From here the views are glorious and, on a clear day, it is possible to view the entire British Isles - England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

After our scenic trip up the mountain, there's time at leisure to explore the village of Laxey. You could visit The Laxey Wheel, or the 'Lady Isabella' as she's known locally, the world's largest working water wheel. You could also wander along the river, or stop for lunch at one of the harbour cafés or restaurants.

You are free to travel back to Douglas at your leisure, on the Manx Electric Railway, in time for dinner.

• Breakfast, Dinner

Today is free until dinnertime, to discover the Isle of Man at your own pace. With your 5-day Heritage Pass there are countless things to do in the town of Douglas or beyond. The Manx Museum is a top attraction, displaying Viking treasures to wartime memorabilia. You could also visit the town's Villa Marina & Gaiety Theatre Complex on the seafront, for a tour of the historic theatre.

On the outskirts of the town is Summerhill Glen, where you could walk up to a waterfall. If you'd like some sea air and a stroll along a beach, the island has 24 to choose from. The Douglas Central Beach, is at the southern end of Douglas Bay and you could walk along its promenade to take in the views.

The towns of Ramsey, Port Erin and Peel are also known for their expansive stretches of sandy beaches which can be reached by bus with your 5-day pass. You could also use your pass to take another independent trip on one of the Isle of Man railways.

Dinner is served at our hotel, the last night of our tour of this unique island.

• Breakfast, Dinner

After our final buffet breakfast at our hotel, it's time to say our farewells to the Isle of Man. We are transferred the short distance to Douglas Port where we board the ferry for our return sailing across the Irish Sea, to Heysham.

Back on land, you are free to continue your journey home, taking special memories of the Isle of Man with you.

• Breakfast