One of my favourite holiday destinations is the beautiful and often overlooked Isle Of Man. Living five miles from the ferry terminal there’s no excuse for not exploring this fascinating island.

Southern peak; South Barrule

I planned to scale the highest peak in the southern half of the island, South Barrule. At 483m, just a modest hill, but one with fine views. It was the cotton grass blowing in the breeze, at the foot of the hill however, that caught my attention.

Monks Bridge, Silverdale Glen

On route to South Barrule, I walked through the delightfully named Silverdale Glen, where I crossed a lovely old (and I mean REALLY old!) Monks Bridge, which was dated 1134!

Isle Of Man Steam Railway at Ballasalla

 The island’s steam railway was the most wonderful way to reach my destination and is tailor made for photography, if you like railways. I took this nice portrait of Number 12 ‘Hutchinson’ at Ballasalla.

End Of The Line: Port Erin

A detour from my walking took me to the end of the line at the picturesque little seaside town of Port Erin. Another chance for me to grab a striking shot looking down the side of the brightly painted carriages on the platform, before heading for the station cafe.

Not a Manx Cat!

Here’s looking at you… Not a Manx cat (the one I stroked at Port Erin bit me, so thought undeserving of a photo!) but this black & white beauty contrasted well amongst the grass.

End of the day and a contrasting shot from opposite my hotel on Douglas Prom. Looking like a cross between Blackpool and the Costa Del Sol, my photo is quite flattering to the faded Victorian face of the once grand seafront.

Douglas Prom At Dusk

More Photographer’s Rambling’s coming soon .