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. Both sites have limited pitches available.
Sulby Claddagh
Camping permit applications are now suspended for the winter.
The Sulby Claddagh is not a registered campsite but informal camping is allowed from 1 May to 30 September. Basic facilities are provided onsite including toilets but there are no showers.
For daytime recreation a permit is not required, however, you will need a camping permit to camp overnight.
Permits are £16 and you should apply for one in advance of your visit as permits will not be issued on site. Permits may only be obtained by a responsible adult aged 18 years or over.
A permit allows the holder to pitch a moveable dwelling (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. All moveable dwellings must be in continuous occupation and must not be left unattended overnight.
As of 2020 the Department has assessed the site and in compliance with relevant legislation and guidance will be restricting the number of available camping pitches to 25 at any one time. This does increase during TT and MGP fortnights.
Before applying for your permit we recommend you read our ‘frequently asked questions’ sheet which can be downloaded from this page.
Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture
Agriculture and Lands Directorate
Thie Slieau Whallian
Foxdale Road
St Johns
IM4 3AS
Email: Send Email
For your safe enjoyment and that of your fellow visitors always comply with the site rules
The Ayres National Nature Reserve (NNR)
Motorhomes are permitted to stay overnight in the recreational area at Smeale, within the Ayres NNR, only (see attached map) and for a maximum of three consecutive nights; motorhome owners must display an 'Authorisation for overnight stay' in their windscreen. No toilet facilities are available at Smeale.
Please note that DEFA are no longer accepting permit applications for 'Authorisations for overnight stays' in 2021.
The Ayres NNR is a quiet and tranquil place, designated for its special wildlife and habitats; please enjoy and respect this very special area.
The Ayres NNR Byelaws
- No overnight without an authorisation
- No tents
- No fires
- Barbeques must be raised off the ground
- Dogs must be on leads from the 1st April to the 31st July and kept under close control at all other times
- Dog fouling must be removed from the land
- All rubbish must be taken away
- Chemical toilets must not be emptied on the NNR
- No loud music or nuisance behaviour
- Wildlife must not be disturbed
For further information about the Nature Reserve please see The Ayres National Nature Reserve webpage.
