The Story of Man
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Port
Douglas, Isle of Man, United Kingdom
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$189.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
4 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Travel across the center of the island to Tynwald. In the 10th century, the Vikings established the Manx parliament, known as Tynwald. Remarkably, this system of self-government has remained in place for more than 1,000 years, making it the oldest continuous parliament in the world. Tynwald Hill is the focal point of Manx independence. Legend has it that the hill contains earth from all seventeen of the island's parishes. Take a few minutes to stroll about the small hill and take photos.
Continue to Peel, on the island's west coast, dominated by the ruins of an ancient Celtic cathedral and the pink sandstone walls of a castle that dates from the 14th century. In the 19th century, Peel was the main fishing port for the island.
Visit the House of Manannan -- a multi-million-pound heritage center interpreting the long and fascinating history of the Isle of Man. Hear about the great mythological sea god, Manannan, how the Celts and Vikings lived, and how the highway of the Irish Sea was the great route of trade and culture, originally plied by Viking ships. This is also your chance to explore a kipper factory -- a genuine insight into the fish-processing industry and the Steam Packet Company -- a conveyor of goods and visitors to and from the island. Models of two of the company's ships are on display.
Cross the island and return to Douglas with an enhanced understanding of its history, culture, commerce and people.