Thursday, November 21, 2024
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You are here: Isle of Man > Attractions > Tourist Sites
HistoryCastle Rushen is th best example in the British Isles of a medieval castle. The exact date which it was built is unknown, though is believed to be around 1200. The Castle served as the residence of the last Norse King of Man, who died in 1266. Part of the castle was destroyed in a siege by Robert the Bruce in 1313, but was rebuilt by Sir William de Montacute in around 1344.The site consists of an outer wall, 25ft high and 7ft thick. Holding on to this wall are five towers, which once served as offices for the Receiver General, Clerk of the Rolls, and other officials. The inner wall of the keep is 12ft thick at the base moving up to 7ft near the top. The main northern tower is 80ft high and the other three are around 70ft high. In the clock room, formally used as the castle chapel lies a clock presented by Queen Elizabeth I in 1597, while she held the island in trust pending a dispute. The clock is of simple construction with only one hand, but still keeps very good time. LocationIn the town centre of Castletown in the south of the Island.By Vehicle: Castletown is a main southern town, served by a multitude of roads. Just follow the road signs. By Bus: Plan your journey with our Bus and Rail Timetables. By Railway: Castletown can be reached by the taking the Electric Railway to Douglas and then the Steam Railway to Castletown. Castletown can be reached on the Steam Railway from Douglas going to Port Erin or by taking the Port Erin (Port St Mary) train going to Douglas. The SiteVisiting Castle RushenThis well preserved castle is well worth visiting. See it from dungeon to clock tower. Many of the rooms have been done up to reflect different time periods in the history of the castle. From times when it was home to kings to its use as official offices and even a prison.After passing through the entrance area. There is a large courtyard area with wooden buildings, stocks, and canons. The stairs to walk around the curtain wall are also from this area, as is the entrance into the castle. There is a film presentation before walking around the castle. Be prepared for a lot of steps and most of them rather narrow spirals staircases. There is no guided tour, but the route is clearly marked and there are guides along the way to answer questions or point out where to go next. All the rooms open for viewing have signs and most have audio effects, furniture, etc to assist in the recreation. Related News Articles
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