Serviced Accommodation in Isle of Man

The Isle of Man lies approximately half way between England and Ireland, and is roughly 572 sq km (221 sq miles) in size. The shore of the island is lined with tall cliffs and is indented by bays, the terrain features wooded rounded hills, the highest of which is Snaefel at 620 m (2,034 feet) above sea level.

The island is steeped in history, and prehistoric stone pile dwellings, runic and druidic monuments, ancient forts, castles, round towers, and stone crossings have all been found there. During Celtic times the Isle of Man had close ties with Ireland, but during the 9th century it was invaded by Vikings. Ruled by Norway for a time, the island alternatively fell under Scottish and English rule, until 1346 when it was finally granted to England. The island's parliament, known as the Tynwald, has existed for more than 1,000 years, and is the world's oldest continuous legislature. Although part of the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man is a 'self-governing Crown dependency' that has lower taxation than the mainland, making it an attractive base for the banks and financial institutions that now make up the largest sector of the economy.

The rest of the economy is mainly supported by fishing and agriculture; with 80% of the land cultivated, the warm climate suits grassland farming. Tourism is also a major industry with people drawn by the islands unique history, charming hills and glens, and in June, by the most prestigious road race of the motorcycling calendar, the TT. Other attractions include the world's largest working water-wheel called the Lady Isabella, a Victorian steam railway, the Manx electric railway, and horse-drawn trams in Douglas.