Some of the best scenery in the Isle of Man can be found on the many Manx National Heritage Countryside Assets. Long before the Vikings, Christian settlers, or any inhabitation of any kind the natural history of the Isle of Man was present. Over time man has shaped and formed the land on which they live and today on Manx National Heritage sites the wildlife is protected for future generations to enjoy and experience.

During your journey around our beautiful Island, take time to enjoy the stunning Manx countryside from the coastal heath of the Ayres in the north to the bird-lined cliffs of the Chasms and the Calf of Man at the south. On your journey, you will also discover ancient monuments, carpets of wildflowers and abundant wildlife across the Island’s varied landscape which includes mountains, moorland, magical glens, waterfalls, rolling farmland and flat coastal plains.

Many of the most scenic and spectacular parts of the Isle of Man, together with some of its most interesting and well-preserved monuments, lie in its remoter parts. If you are uncertain about the location of any of the places mentioned below, use the Isle of Man Outdoor Leisure Map, or the Ordnance Survey Landranger Map to find your way. Directions to each of the sites can be found by clicking here.

Things to see and do in the North:

· Visit the Ayres National Nature Reserve, which stretches across the north of the Island from the Point of Ayre to Smeale and Rue Point.

· See the medieval carved stone crosses at the parish churches of Andreas, Bride, Jurby and Maughold.

· Discover the remains of a small upland farm at Killabrega in Sulby.

· Enjoy magnificent views from the summit of the Iron Age fortress of Cronk Sumark near Sulby village.

· Walk through the wetlands at Ballaugh Curragh, a RAMSAR wetland of international importance.

· Visit the Neolithic chambered tombs at Cashtal yn Ard and Ballafayle.

· Walk the breathtaking coastal footpath around Maughold Head and Gob ny Rona.

Things to see and do in the South:

· Visit the fort and Viking burial site of Balladoole.

· Stroll through Lower Silverdale and discover the medieval Monks’ Bridge in Silverdale Glen.

· Enjoy panoramic views of the south of the Island from the Meayll Circle, a Neolithic tomb.

· Visit St Michael’s Isle, steeped in 8000 years of history.

· Book an overnight stay on the Calf of Man by telephoning Manx National Heritage on 01624 648000.

· Sail to the Calf of Man from either Port Erin or Port St Mary and enjoy its fabulous scenery and birdlife.

Things to see and do in the East:

· Visit King Orry’s Grave, a pair of Neolithic tombs in Laxey.

· See the medieval carved stone crosses at the parish churches of Old Kirk Lonan, Old Kirk Braddan and Onchan.

· Enjoy dramatic coastal views along Marine Drive south of Douglas.

· Discover the site of an Iron Age roundhouse and two Norse buildings at the Braaid.

Things to see and do in the West:

· Visit the ruined upland farm of Upper Ballaharry and explore the public footpaths leading up onto the slopes of Greeba Mountain and Slieau Ruy.

· See the medieval carved stone crosses at Kirk Michael parish church.

· Climb to the summit of Cronk ny Arrey Laa for spectacular views.

· Discover the ruined medieval chapel and waterfall at Spooyt Vane.

· Climb to the summit of South Barrule and discover a 3000 year old village and hilltop fortress.

· Enjoy the coastal scenery at Eary Cushlin and follow the footpath to the medieval chapel at Lag ny Keeilley.

Please remember to act responsibly and safely in the countryside at all times. Close gates, respect wildlife, keep children under close supervision and dogs under control at all times. Take a map with you and tell someone where you are going. Remember that ground surfaces in the countryside may be worn, uneven or slippery, please ensure that you are wearing suitable footwear and keep to defined routes.

Manx National Heritage Trust Lands

The following lands owned or administered by Manx National Heritage are open to the public for ramblage:

Spanish Head and the Chasms area, Maughold Head and Brooghs, Gob ny Rona, Port-e-Vullen, the Curraghs, Ballakesh and Ballakeyl Ayres, the Dhoon Brooghs, St Michael's Isle, the Calf of Man and Kitterland, Eary Cushlin and the Creggan Mooar Brooghs.

Please note that in accordance with the Bye Laws of the Manx Museum and National Trust, interference with wildlife or archaeological sites, unauthorised shooting and metal detecting are not permitted on Manx National Heritage or Manx Museum and National Trust lands. Persons contravening these Bye-Laws are liable to prosecution.