IoMSPCo 1939 Guide

Reason I.-Because its air is pure and healthful, its climate in winter being as mild as that of Bournemouth (42°). Moreover, there are no great changes of temperature, the average extreme variation for some years past being only 17.1°, which means an exceptionally equable climate. Many shrubs and plants, which in England require shelter and artificial heat, grow in the open air in the Isle of Man, and attain great luxuriance and perfection.

As an instance of this, the fuchsia grows almost wild, and may be seen in many a wayside garden hedge. Another practical, and perhaps more satisfactory proof to the visitor, of the beneficial quality of the Manx air, is the fresh life and renewed vigour felt by the tired and overworked after spending a few days in the Island.

Reason II.-Because its scenery is wild and beautiful and varied enough to suit all tastes and preferences, being wildly romantic and grand in some parts, and quietly lovely in others.
Its cliffs and rocks will amply repay those who venture among them ; while its lovely glens, with their waterfalls, streams, and woods, seem to shut us in from the busy world, with all its sordid cares, and raise our hearts involuntarily from "Nature up to Nature's God".

Reason III.-Because the history of the Isle of Man is of great interest : its constitution, with its own legislature and law courts, its ancient language, which once was spoken over the whole of Great Britain, its quaint folk-lore, handed down from parent to child from the times of the Vikings, and its antiquities, afford genuine pleasure to the archaeologist, while they develop tastes for research and inquiry in many who previous to their visit had never bestowed a thought on such subjects. Few, if any, portions of a similar size in the United Kingdom can show such interesting relics of bygone ages, or ancient monuments so numerous or of so varied and valuable a nature. Celtic Ogham inscriptions and Scandinavian runes ; remains suggestive of heathen worship, and Christian churches of ancient date ; cists and tumuli and burial urns illustrating the habits of our forefathers in their wild and savage state, and the old crosses and tombs of the churchyards that belong to Christian times all speak eloquently, to those who can read them aright, of the different races that here have met and contended ; and of the religions and customs that have from time to time prevailed among the people.

Reason IV.-Because its geology is of surpassing interest to the scientifically inclined. The conglomerate of Langness, the limestone around Castletown abounding in organic remains, the red sandstone of Peel, the clay slate of the mountain ranges with its many " faults " and " dips " and " crumplings", giving proof of enormous pressure and of mighty convulsions on the earth's surface ; its great mineral wealth ; and the very extensive deposits of boulder clay, and other evidence of the glacial age, are each and all worthy of close and systematic study by those who wish to understand the past history of our planet.

Reason V.-Because the means of reaching the island are so perfect the splendid Royal Mail steamers of the " Isle of Man Steam Packet Company", second to none for comfort, speed and convenience, sail daily from Liverpool, Fleetwood and Heysham, with frequent and regular service from Ardrossan, Belfast and Dublin.

Reason VI.-Because the facilities for visiting the different parts and seeing the many beauties of the Island are all that could be desired for comfort and cheapness-by rail or road ; and its situation enables the tourist to make frequent pleasant sea trips, occupying only a few hours, and at a small cost, to Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow and North Wales, also round the Isle of Man.

Reason VII.-Because the accommodation in the towns is in every way ample, suitable and inexpensive.

Reason VIll-Because the amusements provided for the visitors are many and good. It is said that as a rule, "Englishmen take their pleasures sadly", but that must be a wicked libel, at least if one may judge of the number of English-men, women and children-who take their pleasure even boisterously, with every sign of enjoyment and mirth. But this is when they visit the Isle of Man-the land of sunshine and song. It may indeed be the case with many, as with a certain English gentleman who, after a visit to the Island recently, said to a friend on his return to England, "The Isle of Man is a splendid place for a holiday. I have endured many a watering-place, but I have enjoyed this one."

Reason IX.-Because to miss the opportunity of seeing the Isle of Man-the Queen of the West-is to remain for ever poorer.

My love lies by the blushing West-dressed in a robe of green,
And pleasant waters sing to her, and know her for their queen,
The wild winds fan her face, that o'er the distant billows come,
She is my last remaining love, my own, my Island Home.

The Isle of Man ! What pleasant memories of sunny holiday times the name recalls " It is a veritable " oasis in the desert " to the weary traveller through factory, or commercial, or professional life ; a glint of blue sky and sunshine in the monotonous gloom of the life passed in the dull, grimy, closed-in town, far from the sound or sight of the sea ; a cheering poem-and one easily understood-to the hard-headed, matter-of-fact tradesman in the lull of business ; a dream of pleasure to the gay follower of fashion and flirtation ; to her hard-worked sister it is the realisation of many romantic (and hitherto very " shaky ") " castles in the air". It is a playground and fairyland for the children ; a series of beautiful pictures to the artist, awaiting but his skilful touch to be transferred to sketch-book and canvas ; to the fisherman it is a perfect holiday resort, with its many trout streams, or its deep-sea fishing with its ruder but no less exciting sport ; to the worn and weary student of books it gives a welcome glimpse into the wondrous " Book of Nature " ; to the historian and antiquarian it is a true mine of wealth.

Those who love company will find themselves in the midst of others of a like mood ; while those who are of a meditative or reserved cast of mind, and prefer quiet and solitude " far from the madding crowd", will be charmed with the secluded spots of this happy isle.

When to come to the Island is another question, but not a general, one. For the majority of holiday-makers the time is fixed and limited, but some are at liberty to come at Christmas or Easter if they wish.

Those who venture across in the winter season may be sure of a hearty welcome from the warm-hearted Manx folk, and will at the same time enjoy the sight of the grand rolling waves and high columns of spray driven in to the bay, and on the Promenade, by the Irish Sea, " backed " by the fierce and mighty Atlantic when in her furious moods. They may also experience a certain charm in the quiet streets and Promenadea charm which is sought in vain in the summer season, when everywhere is heard the " sound of revelry " and enjoyment.

But the summer-from Whit-week to the end of September-is the season for the ordinary pleasure seeker. It is at its height in August, and consequently it is then that, go where we will among the places of resort, we find ourselves in the midst of English tourists. But for true enjoyment in Manxland, many prefer the month of September. September, the " sweetest, saddest month in all the year " ; when Nature tries to lengthen out the summer ; when the colour and glory of June and July have died away, and we have the quiet fascination of the early autumn.

It is to Douglas that our thoughts instinctively turn when a visit to the Isle of Man is contemplated. We feel that Douglas must be our headquarters. It is beyond dispute the metropolis of the Island, and at the same time the point most easily reached, for steamers are constantly passing between it and various parts of the British Isles.

There is a choice of routes to the Island, but the favourite ones are the undermentioned :

LIVERPOOL ROUTE.-By far the largest influx of visitors comes by way of Liverpool, and from the Prince's Landing Stage, twice a day, with frequent extra sailings, ply the largest and fastest of this Company's steamers-distinguished always by the red funnels with black tops. The Turbine Steamers " Ben-my-Chree", " Mona's Queen", " Tynwald " (new), " Fenella " (new), " Manxman", " Viking", " King Orry", " Snaefell", " Victoria", " Mona's Isle", and " Manx Maid", are not only provided with the most luxurious accommodation, but are the fastest Channel Turbine Steamers afloat.

FLEETWOOD ROUTE.-An alternative route to the Isle of Man, established by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, is that via Fleetwood. On arriving at the large and handsome station of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway at Fleetwood, the passenger finds his steamer for Manxland waiting alongside, and his luggage is transferred from train to boat free of charge. The distance by this route is 15 miles shorter than by Liverpool, and the passage usually takes about two and a half hours by the Turbine R.M.S. ` Lady of Mann", and about three hours by other steamers.

HEYSHAM ROUTE.-The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company have also taken up the running of the steamer service between Heysham and Douglas. As at Fleetwood, the London, Midland and Scottish express trains arrive and depart alongside the steamers, and passengers' luggage is transferred free of charge.

There are also services between Ardrossan, Dublin and Belfast.

Now the waiting passengers press to the gangways, and without a hitch embark on the steamer. Once the heavy luggage is deposited in its place, we endeavour to secure good seats. This is not always easy, as, if the day is fine and calm, and so a popular one for our crossing, all are making arrangements to pass the time on deck.

Strolling up and down, we come across many amusing incidents, and in watching others we readily catch the epidemic of excitement and cheerfulness, and feel new life and vigour in the commotion. The bell sounds its third warning note, the mails are all on board, the gangways are withdrawn, and in a few minutes we have left the mainland behind, and are on our way to the little Island in the Irish Sea.

Ocean is spread before me,-on the sea
Zephyrs are sporting,-every tiny wave
Sheds forth a smile.

As we leave the land and get out into the open sea, we feel the delightful thrill of exhilaration and freedom which the open expanse of water and sky gives.

Groups saunter leisurely up and down the deck, or lean lazily on the side of the vessel, gazing at the shining water and the far-off ships, and feeling a most unusual inclination towards day-dreaming.

Ladies are chatting and working, and solitary individuals here and there are scanning the contents of a newspaper, or devouring hastily a " shilling shocker " ; while others, driven by pangs of hunger, which the sea air forces on their notice, find in the cabin, tables laden with substantial fare at a most reasonable charge ; or, if the wary traveller has come provided with luncheon, the bar can supply all his other requirements.

What is that like a summer cloud rising out of the sea? It is the first glimpse of our destination, the Isle of Man; and it means that our journey will soon be over.

We have now been some hours at sea, and quickly the " summer cloud " resolves itself into something more substantial than vapour, as the hills and general outline of the Manx coast are plainly seen.

The rest of the passage is spent with eyes fixed upon the headlands. All scan curiously the island of our holiday dreams, and when we at length round Douglas Head, and come into full view of the peerless Douglas Bay, with the picturesque little Tower of Refuge rising in its midst, exclamations of surprise and admiration break from the expectant passengers. The bay has only to be seen to be loved, and this " love at first sight " is no passing caprice.

The town, rising in fine terraces like an amphitheatre, nestles against a background of purple hills ; and hills, town and bay form a picture not easily forgotten.

We steam past the lighthouse, and as we come round the breakwater we see the Victoria Pier, crowded with people. " Have we some great personage on board ? " one inquires curiously, as he sees the large number lining the sides of the pier. He is soon enlightened. Some are down to meet friends, some to enjoy the walk, while the greater number go to give a welcome, if it be but by smiling, sunburnt faces, to the newcomers. Once more we are on terra firma.

Hotels, boarding and lodging houses, restaurants, theatres, concert halls, shops and bazaars, promenades, gardens and pavilions, the Free Public Library and Reading Room and National Museum stand ready to minister to the wants of all. We see all around us life in its most cheerful mood, and, unconsciously almost to ourselves, fall into the same spirit, and adopt the same bright buoyant air.

Douglas is the Capital of the Island, and the natural headquarters of the tourist army. The great pride of Douglas is its fine series of promenades, which reach from the Victoria Pier, on the south, to Banks' Howe on the north, forming a continuous marine parade unequalled for beauty by any similar construction in the kingdom. The Victoria Pier provides landing accommodation at all states of the tide. To the south is the new King Edward Pier sheltering the inner harbour. The outer harbour is protected on the opposite side by the Breakwater.

Douglas Head, which may be likened to a Park, is under the control of the Corporation and is a favourite resort for Douglas visitors. Its situation on the hill-top is unrivalled. Below is the splendid sweep of Douglas Bay ; inland there is a magnificent panoramic view of the country. Seaward, against the horizon on a fine day, the Cumberland hills may be seen. Amusement of all kinds are in full swing during the day.

From Douglas Head a magnificent Marine Drive extends for a distance of three miles to Port Soderick. In many places the solid face of the perpendicular cliff has been blasted away to form the roadway. An Electric Tramway follows the course of this remarkable drive and the views which are obtained of these stupendous cliffs along the route are very impressive. At Walberry and the Horse Leap two terrific precipices are crossed.

Fort Anne Golf Links (18 holes) extend over the inland slopes of Douglas Head and on the opposite headland are the Howstrake Links (18 holes).

In the summer season, Douglas is one of the brightest and gayest resorts in the world. At the Gaiety Theatre and Opera House, the best English companies appear in opera, drama and musical play. At The Palace and Derby Castle, dancing and variety entertainments are the principal attraction. The Palace boasts of having the largest dancing floor in the kingdom, and the Coliseum, which has been added to the buildings, has the largest auditorium and stage. The new Corporation Resort, Villa Marina, consists of a pretty park and a handsome and commodious building which provides a concert and dance hall, café and reading room.

Other buildings of interest in Douglas are the Town Hall in Ridgeway Street, with the Free Public Library adjoining ; the Government buildings in Prospect Hill, where the Manx Legislature meets, the Court House, in Athol Street, where the Law Courts are held ; and the splendid offices of the Isle of Man Bank Limited, built of granite, with beautiful marblelined interior. There are six churches and numerous denominational places of worship. The resident population of Douglas is slightly over 20,000. The town possesses an excellent water supply and drainage system.

Public Baths, Victoria Street-presented to the town by the Trustees of the late Mr. Henry B. Noble. These have been considerably altered, so as to make them of the most complete and modern kind.

The Manx National Museum contains a fine collection of Natural History objects, Prehistoric Pottery, Stone and Bronze Implements ; Celtic and Runic Crosses ; and many articles illustrating the life of the Manx nation from the earliest times. There is also a Fine Arts Gallery, containing a collection of pictures by the most celebrated Manx Artist, the late Mr. J. M. Nicholson, and a Library of Manx Books, Manuscripts and Prints.

The Cunningham Holiday Camp is claimed to be the largest institution of its kind in the world and provides sleeping and dining accommodation for over 3,000 young men. Its buildings are exceedingly commodious and artistic and are open to public inspection daily. Dances take place in the large Concert Hall, and on Sunday evenings sacred concerts are given, to which the public have free admission.

Motor-car and Motor-cycle Races

The main roads in the Island are kept in excellent order and their capabilities are shown by the fact that the Royal Automobile Club frequently and the Auto-cycle Union invariably hold their long-distance races in the Isle of Man. The. Motor-cycle Races will take place on June 12th, 14th, and 16th of this year, and the Manx International Bicycle T.T. Race on Thursday, June 22nd ; also the Manx Grand Prix Motor-cycle Races on September 12th and 14th, and attract scores of competitors and thousands of interested visitors to Manxland.

Walks and Drives

KIRK BRADDAN.-This is one of the most popular drives and walks in the neighbourhood of Douglas. On Sunday mornings during the season as many as 20,000 to 30,000 people betake themselves to the historic old churchyard, where service is held in the open air. The best route for the pedestrian is to cross Douglas Bridge and pass through the beautiful Nunnery Grounds.

Motoring has greatly developed in the island, and journeys in attractive and comfortable motor char-a-banes, or in the smaller and more private touring cars, may be arranged for, either at the numerous garages in the town, or by a casual walk along the Promenade, where some of the car-stands are situate. The most popular route nowadays, is the whole-day journey round the Island, proceeding from Douglas, via Laxey to Ramsey, thence by Michael to Peel or Glen Helen and Ballacraine, thence up the mountain climb to Foxdale and on to Port Erin, thence via the southern shore to Castletown, and home-a total journey of 65 miles, which, allowing for short halts, brings the traveller back in time for dinner at his hotel or boarding-house. If preferred, this journey can be divided and taken in two days. A charming extension of the Ramsey journey is from Ramsey to the Point of Ayre. In the evenings, the hackney vehicles go out to the popular resorts of Glen Helen and Rushen Abbey, sometimes making a detour via the "Plains of Heaven" and Foxdale, if the party so pleases. There is a charming journey, though this is not done by the larger vehicles, by the mountain road to Snaefell and thence either straight into Ramsey, or round by Tholt-e-Will or Sulby Glen. The smaller vehicles also take: a delightful journey from Peel via Glenmaye and Dalby and the Round Table road into Port Erin.

Peel

PEEL possesses a large and well-sheltered harbour. The fishing fleet has greatly dwindled from its old-time proportions, but there is still a considerable industry here, mainly done by steam drifters. The famous Manx kipper is much in evidence and curing stations have been established at Peel, and thousands of barrels of herrings are exported every year. Gaining the sea front, we find that a fine marine promenade skirts the margin of the bay. On the eastern shore there is an open-air swimming bath, and pleasure boats and yachts are available for those who are nautically inclined.

Port Erin

PORT ERIN has sprung into prominence during the last decade or so as being one of the most desirable localities for the visitor in search of health and recreation. The bay is a beautiful inlet walled in on either side by precipitous crags. On the north is Bradda Mountain, terminating in a bold cliff surmounted by Milner's Tower. To the south are the cliffs and rocks known as the Castles. From this point a breakwater was erected in 1875 at a cost of £71,000, but it is now almost demolished by fierce storms. As a Bathing Place, Port Erin is unrivalled in the Isle of Man. Besides the beautiful sandy shore there is an artificial bath built for mixed bathing under the shelter of the cliffs, recently much modernised. Another noteworthy institution is the Marine Laboratory, Fish Hatchery and Aquarium, which stands near the Breakwater and is open to the public at a nominal charge.

Ramsey

THE people of Ramsey are justly proud of their town and its surroundings, and they have been enterprising enough to do all that is possible to render the place attractive to visitors. The town is in direct steamship communication with Liverpool, Glasgow and Belfast, besides being in daily connection with Liverpool via Douglas. The most precious possession of Ramsey is its spacious bay, which affords good anchorage in most conditions of wind and sea and unusual opportunities for safe yachting and fishing. The town is much frequented by families during the summer season, and the society and mode of life are quite different to that of Douglas. The bathing facilities are of the finest. On the north shore there is a fine Open-air Bath furnished with comfortable dressing-rooms, for both sexes, and galas and displays are frequently held there. The Mooragh Park is one of the beauty spots of the Island, admirably laid out with flowers, and with a charming background and foreground. Facilities are provided for bowling and tennis, and rowing and sailing can be enjoyed on the lake with perfect safety.

Castletown

CASTLETOWN, formerly the capital of the Island, is renowned for its ancient Castle Rushen, one of the finest and best preserved specimens of Edwardian fortresses. Many interesting legends are associated with this old Castle. It was formerly the residence of the Earls of Derby when Lords of Mann, but in modern times and until very recently, it was used as the chief Manx Prison. At great expense and trouble, Castle Rushen has lately been restored to its mediæval condition, and undesirable excrescences of more modern growth have been removed. Within a mile of Castletown stands King William's College, khe most important educational establishment in the Island. In the opposite direction a walk along the shore brings us to Scarlet Point and the Stack of Scarlet, the boss or top of an extinct volcano.

Onchan

SO close to Douglas as to practically form a portion of the town, beautifully situated on the Northern Headland of Douglas Bay, it is fast becoming a favourite resort with the quiet and select class of visitors. Its southerly aspect and bracing air combine to make the place healthy, and Onchan is highly recommended by the medical faculty as a Health Resort.

Port St. Mary

THE southern district of the Island, embraced by Port St. Mary and Port Erin, is extremely picturesque and well deserves the larger share of attention which in recent years it has been receiving from summer tourists. The characteristics of this district render it popular to a class of visitors to whom the boisterousness and unconventionality of Douglas are distasteful. The attractions of the district are of the natural order, and visitors staying here spend their time in climbing the hills, in boating, fishing and bathing. By rail the two places are only three-quarters of a mile distant from each other, but following the coast-line there are four miles of rugged cliffs, and indentations between the two ports, which offer tempting opportunities for adventure and discovery.

The "Hub" of the Island THERE are many interesting excursions which may be made from Douglas. It is really remarkable how far afield the tourist may get and return at night to his point d'appui in Douglas. Particulars of the nautical excursions which may be undertaken at inexpensive rates are given in these pages. There are trips throughout the summer to Glasgow, Dublin, Belfast, Blackpool, Heysham, Llandudno, Round the Island, etc., any one of which forms an ideal way of spending a healthful, interesting day. But it is the land excursions in Mona's Isle which we have now to deal with, and here again the tourist has a wide choice. The Railways and Electric Tramways open up many interesting journeys and horse and Motor Vehicles ply by road to the various centres of attraction.

Laxey

LAXEY is a straggling mining village situated in one of the largest glens of the Island, extending from Snaefell to the sea. The Big Wheel (722 feet in diameter), used for pumping water from the lead mines, is a notable object, the scenery round about is interesting, and the Glen Gardens are well worth a visit. The great Laxey Mines, from which lead, blende, copper and silver were extracted, extend to a depth of about 1,800 feet, and at one time great fortunes were made from them. Laxey Beach on a warm, sunny day is a delectable lounging place. From Laxey, Electric Cars run to the summit of Snaefell Mountain, where a view is obtained over the whole Island and often the shores of England, Ireland and Scotland are visible.

Excursion Round-the Isle of Man

IT is the ambition of every tourist, before saying farewell to Mona's Isle, to circumnavigate its shores, and during the visiting season, steamers of The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company sail on various days of the week "Round the Island".

Comfortably ensconced on the spacious deck of our steamer, we review the whole of the varied coastline as it passes in a moving panorama: before us, and each minute some object of special interest re-awakens our attention. The pleasant breezes blow soft on our cheeks and the sea of many changing hues is rippling at our bow. On shore the green slopes come gently to the water's edge, or anon, great precipices from overhead, and sea-fowls circle round the storm-worn cliffs with eerie cry. The calm sea reflects a wonderful green as it flows through the deep caves or washes the base of the, cliffs; the most barren rocks above water-mark are aglow with strange coats of purple or orange-coloured lichen.

After rounding Douglas Head, rugged cliffs extend as far as Port Soderick. Passing closely one precipitous wall after another, we appreciate their height and stern grandeur more clearly than ever before.

Opening out Port Soderick Glen, we have a pretty scene, with the finely situated mansion of Crogga in the background. About a mile further south is Santon Head, and from thence, going southerly, the land recedes to form Derbyhaven Bay. Right ahead, a narrow neck of land runs out far into the sea, called Langness. Near its extremity we see Fort Island, which derives its name from an old stronghold built by James, seventh Earl of Derby. There are also on this islet the relics of an old mediæval chapel. At the extreme point of Langness, which is a most dangerous point for shipping, a lighthouse is erected, and a salute is given us as we pass.

Having rounded the promontory, we open out into Castletown Bay. The isolated building on the eastern side of the town is King William's College-a noteworthy public school ; while Castletown clusters round the ancient Castle of Rushen, in the north-western corner of the bay.

After passing the Stack of Scarlet, we open out a fine bay. At the furthest extremity is Port St. Mary, a favourite resort for artists- and families attracted by the boating and bathing facilities. After passing Port St. Mary point, the whole character of the coast is changed into huge headlands, Black Head and Spanish Head being passed in succession. The curious Sugar Loaf Rock should be noted and the Chasms which penetrate the cliffs just beyond.

Here we leave the coast of the Island proper, and make a circuit of the Calf Islet, which is separated by a narrow, rock-strewn channel. Away to the left, on the Chickens Rock, is a fine lighthouse, erected at a cost of £100,000. Rounding the Calf, we make our course along the Island's western shore, and Port Erin claims our admiration. On the northern side, Bradda Head rises sheer from the sea to a height of, 390 feet. A few minutes sail brings us opposite Fleshwick-a cove between two steep hills coming down to the water's edge. A succession of headlands slope almost perpendicularly to the sea. Niarbyl, with its group of Manx cottages, is a fine landscape, often depicted by artists, and Contrary Head is another bold headland passed ere we reach Peel Island and catch a passing view of the ruined castle and the cathedral church of St. Germain. The coastline to the Point of Ayre is less interesting, and we have leisure to observe the distant view of the Mull of Galloway,- and probably the Irish mountains as well. Rounding the Point of Ayre the Cumberland coast and mountains are seen on our left.

We shortly find ourselves in Ramsey Bay, a fine open expanse of water bounded on the south by a picturesque shore, terminating in Maughold Head, with its newly-erected lighthouse. In the centre of our picture we have the town of Ramsey, "shining by the sea", as the Manx song says. Behind it is Ballure Mount, with Albert Tower on its top, and still further in the rear North Barrule rises boldly against the sky. Bulgham Bay, further south, exhibits gigantic cliffs descending into the green depths below ; and rounding the headland we open out Laxey Bay and Glen, with Snaefell in the distance. Passing the creek of Groudle and Onchan Head, we steer across Douglas Bay. We have made a circuit of the little Manx Kingdom, and have seen many of its prettiest aspects. Sail about four and a half hours.

Excursion to Dublin .

THE trip from Douglas to Dublin appeals forcibly to visitors in Mona. Coming, for the most part, from England or Scotland, they find themselves half-way already to the Irish Capital, and a pleasant sail of some four hours duration enables them to accomplish the whole distance, and to make or renew acquaintance with the interesting old city, which from many points of view appeals to the imagination, pleases the fancy, and awakens the interest of the beholder. The scenic charms of the fine Bay of Dublin are backed by a drive through the noble thoroughfares of the Irish city, and through the beautiful Phoenix Park. Altogether the experience is one apt to linger long in the memory for its unique interest.

Leaving Douglas by one of the large and fast steamers which sail on this route almost daily during the height of the season, we can return the same day and withal have about three hours for sightseeing in and about Dublin. From Douglas a south-westerly course is steered and gliding past the Manx shore, we review the same interesting coast that is briefly described in our trip " Round the Island". At length the Calf of Man is left behind, and we are ploughing away through the blue waters of the Irish Sea, where nothing but the curling waves are to be seen on every hand, with here and there perhaps a lonely fishing-smack wending her way along or a steam trawler trying her luck on one of the sand banks that lie hidden many fathoms beneath the sparkling sea.

But in no long time the dim outline of land becomes visible and we soon descry on our starboard bow Lambay Island, a green islet about a mile by a mile and half in extent, lying to the north-east of Dublin Bay. This we leave to the right, and next we pass a still smaller green dot called "Ireland's Eye", which lies close to Howth Head, and rises with shapely form to the respectable height of 339 feet above the sea. We now approach Howth Head, or the Hill of Howth, a commanding eminence on the mainland, which runs boldly out into the sea and forms the northern head of the spacious bay. The Bailey Lighthouse, which we pass very closely, is supplemented by a huge fog-horn and signalling house.

Dublin Bay is of noble extent and is three-parts land-locked. From Howth Head, which rises to a height of 663 feet, the distance to Dalkey Island on the south side is five and,a half miles. The southern side is mountainous and picturesque. One of the chief promontories is Bray Head, and behind it are the Sugar Loaf Hills, one of which tops the height of 1,651 feet-about the same elevation as the Manx South Barrule. Further inland on the south side is Kingstown with its convenient and important harbour protected by two fine piers, and within there is accommodation for the Irish mail boats running to and from Holyhead.

Having noted the features on the northern and southern points, we are free to notice the noble proportions of the bay itself, and to appreciate the skill with which its hidden dangers are mapped and buoyed for navigators. In the distance, straight ahead, where the Liffey flows out into the bay, there are two enormous walls-one, that to the south, being concrete, and the other, to the north, of open rubble. Each has a high lighthouse at the end, and they protect the "fairway" into the harbour itself. Passing these we soon find ourselves in an increasing stream of seagoing traffic, from the large ocean-going steamers to the clumsy but indispensable coal tramp, or the inelegant trawler. The busy hum of industry, the rattle of pulleys, the clang of windlass or hammer, fall on our ears ; factories loom into view, and soon the extensive outline of a great city shapes itself before us. We are in the Irish metropolis. Our welcome on the quay is vociferous and truly Celtic. Our old friend, the jaunting car, is ready waiting for us, the persuasive tongue of the Irish " John", with his rich brogue, soon makes friends of us all. The visitor will enjoy immensely his jaunt through Dublin. Returning to the steamer with the " weltering sun", he will confess to having spent a very happy day.

For particulars of Sightseeing Motor Drives in an I around Dublin, arranged by Messrs. Thomas Cook & Son Ltd., soe special handbills.

Excursion to Belfast

DURING the holiday season there are frequent sailings to and from Belfast by direct steamer, passage about four and a half hours. After leaving Douglas our first call is Ramsey, Leaving Ramsey, North Barrule, with its wooded slopes, is sure to claim our admiration. If the weather be. clear a good view of the mountains of the Lake District is obtained.

Soon we pass the Mull of Galloway, the most southern point of Scotland. As we approach the Irish coast the Mourne Mountains may be discerned to the south. Donaghadee next claims our attention. The two islands at the entrance of Belfast Lough are the Greater and Lesser Copelands.

The steamer's course up the Lough is on the County Down side. We pass in view of Bangor, the popular holiday resort for Belfast, and a yachting centre of considerable importance. The steeply sloping and well-wooded shore along the Lough, dotted with mansions, presents a very picturesque view.

Across the Lough, we see the historic Castle of Carrickfergus, and northwards the lofty hills of the Antrim coast.

After entering the Channel, we have on our left ,he fatuous shipbuilding yard of Messrs. Harland & Wolff, wherein have been built many of the great White Star Liners. The shipbuilding yard of Messrs. WEirkman Clark & Co. is passed on the other side.

On landing, our time will be well spent in visiting the sights of Belfast and the beautiful country in the neighbourhood.

Trout Fishing in the Isle of Man

Trout Fishing is a very popular attraction, and the many miles of rivers and streams at present under the control of the Fisheries Board are well stocked and continue to afford good sport to enthusiasts from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. For several years past the Board has placed large consignments of brown trout in the rivers, and this policy is likely to be adhered to in the future.

Licences to kill salmon and trout are issued at, 2/6 a day ; 3/6 per week ; 5/- for 14 days ; 7/6 per month ; and 12/6 the season. The season for trout is from March 10th to September 29th ; and for salmon from 20th February to 20th November.

Licences can be obtained from the Secretarv to the Isle of Man Fisheries Board, 14 Athol Street, Douglas. A brochure, entitled "Fishing in and around the Isle of Man", is issued by the Board at 2d. postage.

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS AT DOUGLAS IN JUNE [1939].

International Motor Cycle T.T. Races, June 12th, 14th and 16th.
Bowling Tournament, June 12th to 17th.
Manx International Bicycle T.T. Race, Thursday, June 22nd.
HIGHLAND GATHERING at Douglas, Monday, July 17th.

The Company's Telegraphic Addresses and Telephone Numbers are :"Steamers, Douglas" (1101) "Williames, Belfast" (21891)

"Steamers, Ramsey, Man" (2110) "Ladyships, Dublin" (21345)

"Oxfords, Liverpool" "Steamers, Blackpool" (318)

(Bank 1376, Royal 371) "Manxman, Glasgow" (Central 4742)

FLEET OF STEAMERS

Passengers are recommended to travel on days other than Saturdays, if possible.

Centenary Booklet, 1830-1930, profusely illustrated, 6d. each, by post 1/-. From Douglas, Ramsey and Liverpool Offices.

MONTHLY RETURN TICKETS to DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN

Via LIVERPOOL, FLEETWOOD, HEYSHAM or ARDROSSAN

L-Via Liverpool. F-Via Fleetwood. H-Via Heysham. A-Via Ardrossan. Return halves of tickets routed via Ardrossan are not valid after the last sailing in September. Passengers holding the return halves of tickets routed via Fleetwood or Heysham can return to Liverpool after the termination of the Fleetwood and Heysham services, but they must make enquiries as to the availability of their tickets for the rail journey from Liverpool.

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Any comments, errors or omissions gratefully received The Editor © F.Coakley , 2011