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

Castle Rushen

Castletown, Isle of Man

Dominating Castletown, the old capital of the Isle of Man, Castle Rushen is the best example in the British Isles of a medieval castle. One of the best preserved medieval castles in Europe, the magnificent Castle Rushen is believed to have been built around 1200 (although the exact date is unknown). Part of the castle was destroyed when Robert the Bruce successfully captured it in 1313, but was virtually rebuilt by Sir William de Montacute in the mid-14th century.By the 15th there had been many enhancements including a more substantial gatehouse at the northern section of the curtain and a drawbridge spanned the inner bailey.

The out wall of the site is 25ft high and 7ft thick, inner wall of the keep 12ft thick at the base, and the main northern tower is 80ft high. Few Kings or Lords spent much time at Castle Rushen before the 16th century and it was largely inhabited by soldiers and government officials. It has had many uses over the years from the island prison, an administrative centre, a mint and a court. The Manx National Heritage transformed Castle Rushen for visitors, today the fascinating castle offers 'living displays' and re-enactments of the Middle Ages. There is a film presentation before walking around the castle and in the large courtyard, wooden buildings, stocks, and canons.

The steep and narrow stairs take you around the curtain wall, and most of the stairs are narrow spirals staircases. Inside many of the rooms have been authentically furnished to reflect different time periods in the history of the castle, with audio effects to enhance the experience. There are murder holes to see, prison cells and dungeons to explore, discover it all from dungeons to clock tower. There is no guided tour, but the route is clearly marked and there are guides along the way to answer questions or point out where to go next. All the rooms open for viewing have signs, and the site also includes a mini museum and heritage shop.