Castletown
The island's capital until 1869, built around a medieval castle and a small harbour.
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Castletown was the seat of government until 1869, and the town is still arranged around Castle Rushen, the limestone fortress at its centre, with the harbour beside it and the market square in front. The Old House of Keys, where the island's parliament sat, stands on the square and is open with a re-enactment of a sitting. The Old Grammar School, a thirteenth-century building, is the oldest roofed structure in the town.
What you actually see
- Castle Rushen - the limestone fortress at the centre of the town.
- The Old House of Keys - the former parliament chamber, open to visitors.
- The Old Grammar School - the thirteenth-century building on the square.
- The harbour - the small working port beside the castle.
When to go
April to October is when the heritage sites keep full hours. Winter opening is much reduced. The town is quiet outside the season.
Honest expectations
Several of the heritage buildings close entirely in winter. The town is small and half a day covers it. Parking near the square is limited.
Nearby
The Nautical Museum is in the town, and St Michael's Isle is southeast.
What to pack for Castletown
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.