Laxey
Isle of Man · East Coast · 20 m
Description
Laxey is a former mining village in a steep glen on the east coast, known above all for the Laxey Wheel, the largest working waterwheel in the world. Built to pump water out of the lead and zinc workings, it turns against the hillside on a masonry tower with a spiral staircase up to the viewing platform. From the village the Snaefell Mountain Railway climbs on Victorian electric cars to the island's only summit, from which Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales can all be seen on a clear day. A narrow gauge mine railway, a shingle beach and a wooded glen complete the place.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Laxey Wheel
- Snaefell Mountain Railway
- Snaefell summit and its four kingdoms view
- Great Laxey Mine Railway
- Laxey Glen Gardens
- Laxey Beach and its harbour
- Manx Electric Railway along the coast
- Mines trail up the glen
- Ballalheannagh Gardens
- King Orry's Grave at Minorca
- Mountain section of the TT course above the village
- Loaghtan sheep on the open hills
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Laxey