Vintage Railways of the Isle of Man

Your holiday begins when we meet the Tour Manager in the Lancashire port of Heysham. Together, we board the early afternoon ferry that takes us to the Isle of Man.

As we sail across the Irish Sea, on a clear day we can enjoy expansive views during our crossing, while keeping an eye out for seabirds and possibly spotting dolphins if we are lucky. We catch our first glimpse of the Isle of Man's gentle rolling landscapes as we approach Douglas.

Stepping off the ferry in the early evening, with our bags taken straight to our hotel, we pass an impressive parade of Victorian buildings on a short stroll along the waterfront to the Claremont Hotel, where we stay for the next five nights. After checking in, there's time to settle into our rooms, before we gather for our first dinner together.

Please note: the order of this itinerary may vary, according to seasonal timetables.

• Dinner

Today is one of the highlights of the tour - a trip to the summit of the island's only mountain, Snaefell. Our day starts as we board the Manx Electric Railway for a nostalgic journey, enjoying scenic coastal views on our way to the fishing village of Laxey.

In Laxey we board the Snaefell Mountain Railway - the only electric mountain railway in the British Isles. The railway takes us through rolling hills, beautiful landscapes and steep gradients as we ascend to the summit. The views from here are renowned and, on a clear day, it is possible to see England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. After descending, there's time to explore the village of Laxey independently, and we recommend the Laxey Wheel. 'Lady Isabella', as she's known locally, is the world's largest working water wheel. You could also stroll beside the river or find lunch by the harbour.

The Manx Electric Railway transports us back to Douglas, where we enjoy a short nostalgic trip on a horse-drawn tram whose tracks take us halfway to our hotel before dinner.

• Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, our first stop is Tynwald Hill in the village of St John's. Here, our coach joins the Isle of Man's famous TT racing circuit, and we enjoy commentary from a former TT rider as we drive along part of the renowned route.

Next, we arrive at the traditional fishing port of Peel, known for its 11th-century castle. This medieval fortress served as a defensive stronghold for centuries and, with entrance included, you can take a self-guided tour of its chapel, dungeons and towers. You could also visit the House of Manannan - a museum dedicated to the island's rich history and culture with interactive exhibits, immersive displays and stunning artefacts.

Later, we re-board the Manx Electric Railway for a journey back to Douglas. Sit back and relax as we travel through glorious countryside, across gorse-topped hills and along the island's rugged east coast. In Douglas, you are free to return to our hotel in your own time before dinner.

• Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we board the vintage carriages of the Isle of Man Steam Railway. Our train chugs through idyllic countryside, passing seaside towns and fishing ports before arriving at Port Erin, set in a beautiful bay on the southwest coast.

We continue our scenic drive across the headland to see the Calf of Man, a small island at the southern tip of the Isle of Man, from a wonderful viewing spot at The Sound Café. There's time here to soak up the wild beauty of the island - its craggy cliffs, windswept fields and rugged coastline - and you could savour coffee with a view.

Arriving in Castletown at lunchtime, there's time to explore the island's ancient capital independently. Entry is included at The Old House of Keys where the Manx parliament used to meet. Built in the 19th century, this important site is beautifully restored, with original furnishings, portraits and documents on display. You could also visit the medieval Castle Rushen, a magnificent fortress with imposing walls and towers. We return to our hotel with time to relax before dinner.

*Steam-hauled where possible, however, due to timetable changes or weather conditions, heritage diesel locomotives may be running instead.

• Breakfast, Dinner

You are free to discover the Isle of Man at your own pace today. If the weather is warm, you could relax on one of the many stunning beaches. Each has its own unique charm, ranging from secluded coves to lively stretches of sand bustling with activity.

In Douglas, you could wander down to St Thomas' Church, set back from the seafront at the heart of the town. Designed by architect Ewan Christian in the 19th-century in Victorian Early Gothic style, the beautiful murals inside make it well worth a visit. If you are on the island in July, the annual Viking Long Boat Championships are held at Peel harbour, an exciting event that celebrates the shared Celtic culture. July also brings the island's folk festival, which has Celtic roots too.

For nature lovers, a boat trip from Douglas to the Isle of Calf is a must. With wonderful wildlife, including seabirds and seals, a visit to the island is a unique opportunity to connect with nature. This evening, we gather for a farewell dinner at our hotel.

• Breakfast, Dinner

From the heritage railways of this picturesque island to the historic towns and idyllic countryside, the Isle of Man has revealed its blend of charm and unique culture. Riding narrow-gauge railways and ascending to the summit of Snaefell has provided fantastic views, while exploring Castletown and Peel has showcased timeless beauty of picture-perfect port towns.

After breakfast this morning, it's time to make our way to Douglas' Sea Terminal for the ferry back to Heysham. Docking in the Lancastrian port, your holiday to the Isle of Man concludes and you can begin your journey home.

• Breakfast