Isle of Man Tourist Information & Attractions

Isle of Man Events, Exhibitions & Shows for 2011

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Isle of Man Holidays / Isle of Man Tourist Information / Castletown

Castletown

Castletown is situated on the site of an ancient volcano and dates back to 1090, making it one of the oldest towns in the British Isles. It has a population of just 3,109 and was once the capital of the Isle of Man and the government used to be based there before moving to Douglas. Castletown takes its name from Castle Rushen, a well preserved medieval castle dating back to around 1200, and this best example in the British Isles of a medieval castle still dominates the centre of town.

Athough Castletown's ports saw the end of major commercial traffic in the 1970's, fishing boats still fill the harbour and along with the small fishing cottages on land and narrow streets highlight its ancient past and add character, despite the on-going expansion of financial and industrial businesses in the area.