Foxdale Heritage Centre

Another excellent institution run by passionate volunteers, the Foxdale Heritage Centre opened its doors in 2004 and, despite somewhat limited opening hours, is well worth a visit.

Concentrating, as you'd expect on the tiny but historically significant hamlet of Foxdale, in the middle of the Island, the centre reflects the changing face of the village and its environs, with emphasis on the mining industry around which Foxdale was built. Lead, zinc and silver were all extracted from the 13 nearby mines, from the 1700s until their closure in the early 20th century - in fact, by the mid 19th century, the Island was one of Britain's leading lead producing areas, whilst more zinc was produced than all other mines in the British Isles combined. Mining was BIG business. The centre itself is housed in the renovated old railway station, part of the Island's formerly extensive small-gauge system, most of which has been - sadly - lost to time.

Foxdale itself is a lovely place, quintesentially quiet, nestled in the green hills in the heart of the Island, close to Peel and St John's. It boasts an excellent pub, The Baltic, where you can stop off for refreshments and a warm welcome.