Camping

There are a number of registered campsites around the Isle of Man.  

Informal seasonal camping is also permitted at 2 venues managed by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture:

Sulby Claddagh 

Public Notice Recent flooding of the Sulby Claddagh means that the toilet block remains closed at the present time. Remedial works have commenced which will hopefully help dry out the land around the toilet block and enable inspection of the sewerage system and other infrastructure. Online camping permit applications have now recommenced. It is anticipated that the site will re-open for camping on Monday 21 May. Thank you for your co-operation in this matter.

The Sulby Claddagh is not a registered campsite, but informal camping is allowed Easter Weekend and then from 1 May to 30 September. Basic facilities are provided onsite including toilets, but there are no showers. 

You will need a camping permit to camp overnight at the Claddagh. 

Permits are £15 and you should apply for one well in advance of your visit as permits will not normally be issued on site. Permits may only be obtained by a responsible adult aged 18 years or over.

Permits are valid for a season – Easter Weekend, and then from 1 May to 30 September. Camping on the Claddagh is not permitted outside this period.

A permit allows the holder to pitch a camping unit (motorhome, tent, campervan, caravan, trailer tent, etc) staying for up to a maximum of 14 nights at a time. Your permit must be clearly displayed at all times when camping overnight. Units must be in continuous occupation. 

A permit also covers 'pup' tents associated with a family from the same household.

A permit does not reserve a pitch at Sulby Claddagh. Pitches are available on a first come first served basis so space can never be guaranteed. Community events held on the Claddaghs may further restrict space for camping on certain occasions.

Toilet facilities are open during the camping season only.

Camping permits are non-transferrable.

A frequently asked questions sheet can be found on the reverse of the downloadable application form.

Sulby Claddagh byelaws and site rules

The Department asks that campers comply with the Sulby Claddagh Byelaws; a summary of which is as follows:

• Tents, caravans etc must be at least 6 metres apart
• No fires permitted. Barbecues* etc must be raised off the ground sufficient to protect it from damage
• *Charcoal or gas/paraffin only, no other fuel permitted
• No vehicles on Claddagh other than for access for example no riding or driving around
• No camping on the riverside and recreation areas (except during TT and Grand Prix fortnights)
• No loud music at any time
• No music or generators after 10:30pm or before 7:30am
• No violent, quarrelsome or disorderly behaviour
• No profane, obscene or threatening language
• No fouling, dogs must be kept under control
• All litter to be taken away or disposed of in the bins provided
• Camping units must not be left unocupied overnight. 

Penalty - a fine not exceeding £2500.

The Ayres