Port St Mary Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more with our comprehensive guide to Port St Mary, Isle of Man.


Introduction to Port St Mary

Nestled on the southern coast of the Isle of Man, Port St Mary is a delightful village known for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. The village was named after the Virgin Mary and has been an important port since the 19th century. Port St Mary is a perfect holiday destination for travelers who love hiking, biking, and exploring museums and historical sites.

List of Places to Visit in Port St Mary

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Port St Mary offers something for everyone. Here is a list of places you must visit in Port St Mary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Old House of Keys Museum
  • The Nautical Museum
  • The Steam Railway Museum
  • The Rushen Abbey
  • The Castle Rushen
  • The Calf of Man
  • The Sound Visitor Centre

Natural Attractions of Port St Mary: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Bay Ny Carrickey
  • The Chapel Beach
  • The Port St Mary Harbour
  • The Bradda Head
  • The Black Head
  • The Perwick Bay

Hiking/Biking Routes of Port St Mary

Port St Mary is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or opt for a challenging hike, Port St Mary has plenty of options. Below are some popular hiking and biking routes you must explore:

  • The Raad ny Foillan
  • The Heritage Trail
  • The Port Erin to Port St Mary Walk
  • The Bradda Head Loop
  • The Port St Mary to Cregneash Walk

Best Things to Do in Port St Mary: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for unique experiences in Port St Mary, you won’t be disappointed. Here is a list of must-do activities:

  • Take a steam train ride around the island
  • Go on a boat tour around the Calf of Man
  • Learn about the history of Port St Mary at the museums
  • Sample local food and drink at the village pubs and restaurants
  • Take a scenic hike or bike ride
  • Go bird watching at the Calf of Man
  • Attend the annual Port St Mary Regatta

Week-Long Itinerary for Port St Mary

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Port St Mary, follow this itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1 Arrival and Check-in Bradda Head Loop Walk
Day 2 Old House of Keys Museum and Steam Railway Museum Port Erin to Port St Mary Walk
Day 3 Rushen Abbey and Castle Rushen Boat Tour to Calf of Man
Day 4 Bay Ny Carrickey and Chapel Beach Heritage Trail Walk
Day 5 Nautical Museum and Sound Visitor Centre Raad ny Foillan (island-wide hike)
Day 6 Perwick Bay and Black Head Bird Watching at Calf of Man
Day 7 Port St Mary Regatta Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Port St Mary

Port St Mary offers a great food and drink scene for foodies looking to sample local cuisine. Here is a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Manx Queenie Scallops
  • Manx Kippers
  • Salted Beef
  • Lobster, Crab, and Prawns
  • Casseroles and Stews

Local Beverages

  • Manx Ale
  • Apple Orrey
  • Old Bushy’s Ale
  • Manx Mead
  • Manx Spirit

Where to Stay in Port St Mary: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Port St Mary has some great accommodation options for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable stay. Here are some highly-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • The Falcon’s Nest Hotel
  • The Shore Hotel
  • The Arches Holiday Haven
  • The Bay View Apartments

What to Buy in Port St Mary: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for gifts and souvenirs to bring back from Port St Mary, here are some of the best options:

  • Manx Tartan
  • Manx Craft Beer
  • Manx Cheese and Chutney
  • Manx Knitwear
  • Manx Mussel and Oyster Shell Crafts

Local Culture and Customs of Port St Mary

Port St Mary has a vibrant local culture and traditions that are worth exploring. Here are some interesting cultural aspects:

  • The annual Port St Mary Regatta
  • The tradition of boat-building
  • The Manx language

Best Time to Visit Port St Mary

The best time to visit Port St Mary is between May and September when the weather is warm and the skies are sunny. However, if you enjoy the cooler weather and winter sports, visiting between October and April is recommended.

Do’s and Don’ts of Port St Mary

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Port St Mary:

Do:

  • Try local cuisine and drink
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Take care of the environment while exploring natural attractions
  • Stay in designated paths while hiking
  • Observe wildlife from a distance

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural habitats
  • Trespass on private property
  • Disturb the wildlife
  • Enter restricted areas

Safety and Health

Here are some important safety and health information to keep in mind when visiting Port St Mary:

Safety in Port St Mary

  • Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
  • Lock your doors and windows when leaving your accommodation
  • Take necessary precautions when hiking or biking
  • Pay attention to weather forecast

Health in Port St Mary

  • Pack necessary medication in your travel kit
  • Check for any travel advisories
  • Stay hydrated
  • Rest when you’re feeling unwell

Getting to Port St Mary: Transportation Options and Logistics

Port St Mary is well-connected to nearby towns and cities. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Port St Mary

  • Isle of Man Airport

Bus Stations Near Port St Mary

  • Port St Mary Bus Station

Other Options

  • Taxis
  • Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Port St Mary

Port St Mary is a small village and can be easily explored on foot or bike. However, if you’re looking for an alternative option, here are some transportation options:

  • Public Buses
  • Taxis
  • Car Rentals

Where to Go Next from Port St Mary: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Port St Mary is surrounded by beautiful towns and villages that are worth exploring. Here are some nearby destinations:

  • Castletown
  • Peel
  • Douglas
  • Ramsey

Conclusion

Port St Mary is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re on a family trip or a solo adventure, Port St Mary will offer you a memorable experience. Start planning your trip today and explore the best that Port St Mary has to offer!

Cowshed at Cregneash Cowshed at Cregneash Meayll Circle Meayll Circle View from The Chasms View from The Chasms