Douglas to Peel - Railway Lines Mountain Bike Trail
A nice easy route for all the family to enjoy!
Starting at the NSC Outdoor arena entrance, parking is available. The route crosses the main road opposite “The Quarterbridge Pub”
The first section of this route follows the “TT Access road” at the end of the access road there is a kissing gate you are then on to the trail proper. This trail follows the old railway line from Douglas to Peel passing through Union Mills, Glen Vine, Crosby, St Johns and in to Peel. (insert picture 001)
The first section is tarmac until Union mills where it turns to hard pack mud as you enter the village you will see the tunnel up ahead, stick to the sides going through.
There is then a little footbridge crossing the river this is slippery when wet so caution is advised.
The first road crossing is at Glen Vine, CAUTION watch for traffic here, you will notice the old crossing controllers hut on your left.
The next crossing is at Marown again CAUTION is advised crossing the road, crossing along side the Football pitches. PLEASE NOTE, this land is privately owned access is allowed but a request has been made that bikes are pushed until you have passed the BMX track.
The trail then meanders on towards Peel passing The Kings Plantation on your right there are two more road crossing, with gated access, even though these are on minor roads please cross with care, watch for the wooden sheep!!
The next crossing is on the Foxdale road, the track again returns to tarmac here, you are now entering what was the St Johns shunting yard, as you enter the yard which is now a car park you will see the new school on your right and more importantly the Farmers Arms up ahead, ideal for a stop on a hot day.
The next section starts at the path approx 150meters up from the Farmers Arms, this is the last section through to Peel and is probably the most scenic. Ahead of you, you have Peel Hill and Corrins Folly and the River Neb flows along with you all the way now. The trail continues on to The Raggart, here you encounter your second tunnel, as you exit the tunnel the footpath breaks left and follows the river to Peel, you must stay on the railway line. The end is now in sight ahead is Peel Power Station and at the end of the line is the Transport Museum. Just behind the Transport Museum you have “The House of Mananan” well worth a visit if you have time.
Opposite you have “The Creek Inn” serving meals, teas & coffee as well as a good selection of ales! Or you can continue round the quayside enjoying views of the Castle. Follow round onto the promenade where you will find a good selection of Cafes and Ice Cream shops.
