• St. Adamnan’s - Lonan Old Church - The Viking & Celtic Christian Heritage Tour commences with a visit to Lonan Old Church, dedicated to St. Adamnan, the Abbot of Iona, dating back to the 12th century. This secluded ancient site is of religious importance, featuring a collection of carved stone crosses from the 7th century, including a remarkable 10th-century wheel head cross in its original location.
• Kirk Maughold Church - From Lonan, the journey continues to Maughold, located in a breathtaking area of natural beauty. Here, one can explore a unique blend of Celtic and Viking heritage, viewing some extraordinary examples of carved stone crosses and the remnants of the island’s first monastery, dating back to the 6th century.
• Jurby Church - Moving on to St. Patrick’s Church in the coastal setting of Jurby, a rich tapestry of history awaits; untouched Viking burial mounds are visible in the churchyard, while inside the church, a variety of carved stone crosses enhance the site’s historical charm.
• Peel - Traveling westward, the tour reaches Peel, with its adjacent St. Patrick’s Isle, considered one of the most significant historic and religious sites in the British Isles. Dominated by the expansive ruins of Peel Castle, it is a place rich in legend and myth. The site, first used over 7000 years ago, has served as a settlement, a Celtic Monastery, a religious center, and a Viking stronghold and fortress throughout its history. Visitors will also explore the House of Manannan, experiencing reconstructions of a Celtic roundhouse and a Viking longhouse, along with a chance to view the replica Viking ship Odin’s Raven.
• Tynwald Hill - Next, the tour visits Tynwald Hill; Tynwald is believed to have been established by Norse Viking settlers over a thousand years ago, making it the oldest continuous parliament in the world. The hill symbolizes the Isle of Man’s independence as a self-governing crown dependency. There is a wealth of history to explore in this area, including the Royal Chapel, likely built on the site of an ancient Keeill.
• Castletown - Concluding the tour, participants will explore Castletown, marveling at the impressive Castle Rushen, built by a Viking King, where the last Viking King on the Isle of Man died. Additionally, there may be an opportunity to visit Rushen Abbey, which is rich in Christian heritage.
• Fairy Bridge - As the tour concludes, the route passes via Fairy Bridge and The Braaid, offering views that inspired John Martin’s “The Plains of Heaven” painting, currently housed in the Tate Modern, and views of an abandoned farmstead featuring an Iron Age Roundhouse and two Norse Longhouses. The tour schedule allows for travel between points of interest and refreshment stops.

• Blue Badge Driver Guide
• Entry where applicable into Museums and Castles
• Private Tour in an Air-conditioned Private Vehicle

• Lunch
• Refreshments
• Gratuities

The term “Viking” captures our imagination – warriors wielding swords with horned helmets as they set sail on longboat voyages. Among those destinations was the Isle of Man, where Celtic Christianity was already well established. Discover the island’s early Christian heritage, visiting an early monastastic site with its ruined Keeills. Uncover the lesser-known story of these mysterious Norsemen, as they encountered Celtic Christians and made the Isle of Man their home. Louise is an enthusiastic Blue Badge Guide who offers a personalised experience driving you to iconic landmarks and lesser known gems that are inaccessible by public transport. Every tour can be tailored to suit your pace, preferences, and individual needs including visiting places that are wheelchair accessible if required, so don’t hesitate to get in touch and discuss your specific needs with us. Tour timings allow for travel between points of interest, refreshments stops and opportunities to purchase souvenirs.

• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• The tour timings allow for travel between points of interest and refreshments stops.
• Infant seats available upon request

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.