The Isle of Man’s heritage rail network will partially reopen next week to coincide with the first visitors from Guernsey and the beginning of the school summer holidays. The service was stopped due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the summer tourist season.
The Isle of Man Steam Railway will re-open to passengers, Thursday to Sunday each week, from 23 July to 13 September.
The Dining Car will be back in operation, Thursday to Sunday, from 30 July with a number of new events planned.
The Manx Electric Railway will re-open, Saturday to Tuesday each week, from 25 July to 13 September.
Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said:
‘Despite the very limited visitor market we recognise the important and distinctive role the Heritage Railways plays in the Isle of Man experience, so we have taken the decision to reintroduce the MER and Steam Railway for the summer season. The railways bring a holiday feel to the Island and I am sure this news will be well received by Manx residents and visitors from Guernsey alike.
‘It’s a limited four day a week timetable that coincides with the opening of the Laxey Wheel and other Manx National Heritage attractions around the Island on selected days over the summer.’
He added:
‘I hope this will bring a degree of normality to the 2020 summer period and an opportunity for people to use the railways and see the Island in a unique way. Our railways team is very happy to be welcoming you back.’
Due to financial and operational challenges the Snaefell Mountain Railway will not be in operation during the summer 2020 season.
