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 / Getting Around / Snaefell Mountain Railway

Snaefell Mountain Railway

The Snaefell Mountain Railway is an electric railway which is over 100 years old, first beginning service in 1895. Taking just seven months to complete, the Snaefell Mountain Railway today still operates the 5 miles stretch of track running from the village of Laxey to the top of Snaefell Mountain, the island’s highest peak at 2,036 feet.

The track is built to a 1067 mm gauge and uses a Fell centre rail for braking on the steep gradients. Snaefell Mountain Railway is electrified using overhead wires at 550 volts direct current.

Services operate at regular intervals between April and September, taking 30 minutes for a one-way journey with only one stop en route, known as the Bungalow which is midway up the mountain. The journey takes in spectacular views of the surrounding countryside including Laxey Glen and is an ideal way to see the surrounding area and of course reach the top of Snaefell Mountain. Children will love the train-ride, and at the summit there is a cafe, pub, and small museum.