Isle of Man Viking and Celtic Heritage Tour

The term “Viking” captures our imagination – warriors wielding swords with horned helmets as they set sail on longboat voyages. Among those destinations was the Isle of Man, where Celtic Christianity was already well established. Discover the island’s early Christian heritage, visiting an early monastastic site with its ruined Keeills. Uncover the lesser-known story of these mysterious Norsemen, as they encountered Celtic Christians and made the Isle of Man their home. Louise is an enthusiastic Blue Badge Guide who offers a personalised experience driving you to iconic landmarks and lesser known gems that are inaccessible by public transport.
Every tour can be tailored to suit your pace, preferences, and individual needs including visiting places that are wheelchair accessible if required, so don’t hesitate to get in touch and discuss your specific needs with us.
Tour timings allow for travel between points of interest, refreshments stops and opportunities to purchase souvenirs.

The Viking & Celtic Christian Heritage Tour, will begin with a visit to Lonan Old Church, dedicated to St. Adamnan, the Abbot of Iona, dating back to the 12th century. This secluded ancient site holds religious significance, showcasing a collection of carved stone crosses from the 7th century, including an impressive 10th century wheel head cross situated in its original position.

From Lonan, we venture onto Maughold, situated in a stunning area of natural beauty, we can explore a unique blend of Celtic and Viking heritage as we view some remarkable examples of carved stone crosses and explore the remnants of the first monastery on the island dating back to the 6th century.

Venturing onto St. Patrick’s Church in the coastal setting of Jurby, we can find a rich tapestry of history; untouched Viking burial mounds can be seen in the churchyard while inside the church, an array of carved stone crosses adds to the site’s historical allure.

Heading westward, we’ll venture to Peel; with its adjacent St. Patrick’s isle said to be one of the most important historic and religious sites in the British isles. Dominated by the sprawling ruins of Peel castle, it is a place steeped in legend and myth. The site, first used more than 7000 years ago, has served as a settlement, a Celtic Monastery, a religious centre and a Viking stronghold and fortress throughout its history. We’ll also visit the House of Manannan, where we’ll experience reconstructions of a Celtic roundhouse and a Viking longhouse, along with an opportunity to view the replica Viking ship Odin’s Raven.

Next, we’ll visit Tynwald Hill; Tynwald is believed to have been established by Norse Viking settlers over a thousand years ago making it the oldest continuous parliament in the world. The hill symbolizes the Isle of Man’s independence as a self-governing crown dependency. There’s a wealth of history to explore in this area including the Royal Chapel likely built on the site of an ancient Keeill.

Heading south via The Braaid we’ll see the views that inspired John Martin’s “The Plains of Heaven” painting, currently found in the Tate Modern, and also views of an abandoned farmstead featuring an Iron Age Roundhouse and two Norse Longhouses. Finishing the tour, we’ll explore Castletown, marveling the impressive Castle Rushen, built by a Viking King and where the last Viking King on the Isle of Man died. Additionally, there may also be a chance to visit Rushen Abbey which is steeped in Christian heritage.

As we end the tour we will head back via Fairy Bridge. The tour timings allow for travel between points of interest and refreshments stops.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• The tour timings allow for travel between points of interest and refreshments stops.
• Infant seats available upon request

• Isle of Man Viking and Celtic Heritage Tour
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  Pickup included

• Blue Badge Driver Guide
• Entry where applicable into Museums and Castles
• Private Tour in an Air-conditioned Private Vehicle

• Refreshments

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Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Isle of Man Guided Tours and Adventures.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Isle_of_Man.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 4 Travelers is accepted for booking.