by Mark Found

Okay, hot dog! Now we're motoring! The Isle of Man is truly a blessed place, and although it might rain occasionally, things like the Manx Electric Railway more than make up for it.

Lucky buggers we are, our first port of call was the depot at Derby Castle for a tour in the company of Paul Ogden, Superintendent of the railways (only the best for us). It's a testament to the guys that work at the depot that the newest car working the line dates back to the early 1900's (discounting re-builds).

For me, actually travelling on trams and trains isn't necessarily the best bit of being an enthusiast, I like standing around and watching them go by. The Electric Railway is absolutely ideal for this pursuit, and perfect for train chasing as for much of it length between Douglas and Laxey it runs alongside the road.

We spent a fair bit of time at Laxey, as this is where the the mountain railway and electric railway meet, and also there's a very good pub that serves excellent grub and a nice pint of beer. It's a Found recommendation!

Those of you that know me will be aware of my interest in garden railways, and the thought did occur to me that the Manx Electric Railway would make an excellent choice of subject for those with little room to spare. The real life railway has to cope with some pretty sharp bends and steep gradients. For example, just around Groudle the railway turns 180° in not much more than 100 yards, and the railway faces quite a stiff climb heading out of Laxey towards Ramsey. Much of the line is now countryside, although for fellow train chasers there are bits alongside the road and several very pretty level crossings and small stations.

For those who enjoy travelling on trains this is, perhaps, the most scenic part of the journey, with stunning views of the coastline, and a ride past front and back gardens on the way into Ramsey.

Trainspotting.links (will open in a new window)

Oakwood Press
make high quality videos, and have several on this subject.
Isle of Man
has its' own website for tourists, and very good it is too.
Isle of Man Transport Heritage
this has links to all the railway websites

www.iomguide.com/transportation

very good website, and has lots of useful links

Books

loads on this subject, but I really enjoy "The Railways and Tramways of the Isle of Man" by Barry Edwards and published by OPC. Great pictures and well written text.