Isle of Man Coastal Path
Way of the Gull (Raad Ny Foillan)

Location: Isle of Man

OS Maps: Landranger 95

The official Manx name of this coastal path circumnavigating the Isle of Man is 'Raad Ny Foillan'; the English translation being 'The Way of the Gull'. This 96 mile long distance footpath was set up in 1986 to mark the Island's Heritage Year. In its journey around the Isle of Man the Raad Ny Foillan offer a variety of scenery from the rugged cliffs and mountain moorland in the south, to the glens, beaches and dunes of the north. It wends its way through two nature reserves and along an old disused railway. it passes scenes of historical interest, colourful fishing villages and peaceful havens. It takes to the road in several places, yet the country lanes have their own charm and little traffic. The footpath is never far from the sea or thr cry of the gull. It is suitable for the gentle walker to do in short sections, or for a walking holiday for the more adventurous walker or backpacker.

Officially, the route starts at Douglas on the east coast and proceeds in a clockwise direction around the Island. The main locations along the route are Douglas, Castletown, Port St Mary, Port Erin, Peel, Kirk Michael, Point of Ayre, Ramsey, and Laxey.

Guide Book: [Click for further information or to purchase]

The Isle of Man Coastal Path by: Aileen Evans. The walk is described in 9 easy stages with suggestions for accommodation en route. Beginning at Douglas the stages are: Douglas to Castletown; Castletown to Port St. Mary; Port St. Mary to Port Erin; Port Erin to Peel; Peel to Kirk Michael; Kirk Michael to Point of Ayre; Point of Ayre to Ramsey; Ramsey to Laxey; Laxey to Douglas. An introductory chapter covers the climate and best times to walk, accommodation, public transport, geology, nature along the path and history. The guide also includes two other walks. The Millennium Way follows the ancient route of the kings from Ramsey to Castletown, whilst the Herring Way takes a traditional way from Peel to Castletown. These two walks cross the hills of the island's interior and can be combined to give an interesting contrasting route.

Acknowledgement: Descriptive text taken from Isle of Man Coastal path guide by Aileen Evans