The Laxey Wheel

The Laxey Wheel, known affectionately as Lady Isabella, is the largest surviving original working waterwheel in the world and the most beloved of the Isle of Man's landmarks, a magnificent monument to Victorian engineering. Built in 1854 to pump water from the deep lead and zinc mines of the Laxey valley, this enormous scarlet-and-white wheel measures over twenty-two metres across and still turns gracefully to this day, driven by mountain water. Visitors can climb to a viewing platform atop the wheel for fine views and explore the associated mine trails and machinery. Set in a lush green glen, this elegant, brightly painted giant is a genuine icon of industrial heritage and a delight to behold.

History

The wheel was built in 1854 to pump water out of the Glen Mooar section of the Great Laxey Mines, to a design by Robert Casement: 72 feet 6 inches across and 6 feet wide, it turns about three times a minute. It was named Lady Isabella after the wife of Charles Hope, the island's Lieutenant Governor at the time. It is the largest surviving original working waterwheel in the world, looked after by Manx National Heritage, and it appears on the back of the Isle of Man's £20 note (Wikipedia, Laxey Wheel).

Highlights

• The great wheel - the world's largest working waterwheel.
• The viewing platform - the climb to the top for fine views.
• The mine trails - the paths and machinery of the old mines.
• The green glen - the lush valley setting of Laxey.

When to go

May to September offers the mildest weather and long days for visiting the wheel and walking the glen and mine trails, when the site is fully open; spring and autumn are pleasant and quieter. The lush green valley is at its best in the warmer months.

Good to know

The Laxey Wheel is a single, if magnificent, historic monument best combined with the glen and mine trails, and the climb to the viewing platform involves a spiral staircase. As the largest surviving original working waterwheel in the world, an elegant scarlet Victorian marvel still turning in a green glen, though, the Laxey Wheel is a genuinely charming and impressive icon of engineering.

Nearby

The village of Laxey, the electric railway and Snaefell lie nearby.