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Places filling fast for Walk the Isle of Man 2022 after walkers return in record numbers for our 2021 event

Wed, 13 Oct 2021


Despite the pandemic, the Isle of Man’s strategy of welcoming walkers from the UK and Ireland to attend its flagship walking festival, Walk the Isle of Man, has proved a bumper success – with the event being a sell-out.

We were both relieved and delighted in equal measure.

After the cancellation of the 2020 event due to coronavirus, here at Isle of Man Events as festival organisers, along with our partners Go-Mann Adventures, we were pinning our hopes on the country’s borders being reopened in time to enable the 2021 festival to go ahead. And they were!

With the Isle of Man Government giving the green light to vaccinated visitors from the UK and Ireland from July 1st this year, walking enthusiasts were given sufficient time to book their place for Walk the Isle of Man 2021, which we staged over six hectic days at the end of September.

A total of 150 walkers from the UK and Ireland, many of whom were seasoned club ramblers, were able to choose from five daily walks, showcasing a variety of the Isle of Man’s scenic terrain. The routes encompassed up to 300 miles of country tracks, spectacular fells and glens, as well as parts of the Raad ny Foillan, the undulating coastal footpath that circumvents the Island. An experienced local walking guide was present on each walk.   

“It provided visiting walkers with an unprecedented view of the Island - in all its autumn glory,” said Isle of Man Events Director, Sally Helwich. For those who weren’t already aware, Isle of Man Events specialises in handling year-round on-Island travel and accommodation for groups and individual travellers.

“This was the first major opportunity since the pandemic to judge the popularity of organised walking events for off-Island visitors and it really exceeded all our expectations,” she said. “It has shown that tourism is alive and well on the Island and that there is a real appetite for walking holidays here,” she added.

Sally also praised the work of the local volunteers, who worked so hard to ensure the event ran like clockwork. “The atmosphere was exceptional throughout the week and every member of our team played a huge part in making it such a memorable time. We’re very grateful for the support received from Isle of Man Transport, Visit Isle of Man, local hotels and landowners who made our guests very welcome.” she added. 

Walk the Isle of Man 2021 clearly made a favourable impression with those taking part. One walker, who came over from England, wrote to us: “We enjoyed the diverse scenery. The walk leaders were knowledgeable, enthusiastic and we were very impressed with the transport on the Island – buses, trains and trams.”  Whilst another said: “I enjoyed the week and am thinking of going again next year.  The organisation was immaculate, the leaders did very well and the routes were very good.  I would definitely recommend the event.”

Meanwhile, it looks like there could be another full-house for Walk the Isle of Man 2022, which will take place from 25th-30th September. The event is already over half-way to being fully subscribed.  So don’t leave it too long!  To book a place, contact Isle of Man Events asap on 01624 664460 or email: info@iomevents.com

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