Car Hire Douglas - Mini guide to Douglas
Located on the Isle of Man, Douglas is famous as a tax haven, and for its motor sports and magnificent bay. Throughout the island there is evidence of Celtic and Viking influence to be discovered, while Douglas itself boasts some unique Victorian architecture.
Annually, Douglas hosts the world famous TT motorcycle races, attracting world-class riders and hordes of spectators. At other times of the year there is a less frantic pace and the languid sweep of Douglas Bay, against a background of green hills, has its own charm. Since Victorian times, Douglas has been a pioneer in illuminations and at night presents a scene of spectacular beauty.
The promenade is a one-and-half mile stroll from which you can spot the Tower of Refuge that emerges from the sea with the fall of the tide. Parading the length of the sea front are the Douglas horse trams which are now the only horse-drawn trams in existence. On Strand Street there is a fine example of Edwardian splendour, the Gaiety Theatre.
Douglas is a notable spot for scuba diving in its pristine waters, and fishing is also a popular pastime. There are numerous country walks in and around Douglas incorporating wonderful scenery and enchanting glens. Shoppers are well catered for in the new shopping centre, and the cuisine in town is often uniquely Manx, served in a myriad of restaurants and cosy cafes. In particular, try out the renowned Manx kippers for breakfast.
Outside Douglas, the Curraghs Wildlife Park in Ballaugh is a unique wetland containing some of the rarest wetland wildlife, including many endangered species. Also of popular interest is the Laxey Wheel - the world’s largest working water wheel, as well as the Isle of Man Steam Railway, which is an immediate time warp to Victorian travel.
A combination of ferry, high-speed SeaCat or SuperSeaCat sailings run from Liverpool, Heysham, Belfast and Dublin all year round, and the island has its own airport.
