Manx National Heritage has opened 1 Market Square, Castletown, a vibrant new visitor welcome hub designed to celebrate, support and share the Isle of Man’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Located in the heart of the Island’s ancient capital, this important development will serve as a new gateway to the Isle of Man’s diverse heritage story, enhancing both the visitor experience and engagement with MNH’s work.
Transformed into an inspiring, welcoming space that showcases Manx National Heritage’s sites, collections and conservation activities, 1 Market Square highlights the landscapes, stories and cultural treasures that define the Isle of Man – alongside the essential work undertaken every day to protect and preserve them by the Island’s National Trust and heritage conservation charity.
The ground floor provides a vibrant and accessible welcome hub where visitors and residents can access information, purchase admission tickets for all Manx National Heritage sites, and buy travel tickets, making it easier to explore heritage across the Island. The space incorporates a vibrant interpretation area and retail shop featuring unique gifts, books and a range of locally crafted products, enhancing the shopping experience for those exploring Castletown. Every purchase made directly supports MNH’s charitable work to conserve and promote the Island’s heritage.
During quieter months, the ground floor space will be used for a programme of small‑scale events, including workshops, creative sessions and ‘Meet the Maker’ events, bringing people together to celebrate Manx creativity, craftsmanship and culture.
The second phase of the project will see the upper floor developed into self‑contained office accommodation for approximately 8-10 people, contributing to the local economy and encouraging additional footfall and secondary spend in the town centre.
Through these activities, 1 Market Square will help foster connections with the Isle of Man’s past, encourage hands‑on engagement with heritage and culture, and promote understanding of the shared responsibility involved in protecting heritage for future generations.
Connie Lovel, Chief Executive said: “We are delighted to breathe new life into this important building in the heart of Castletown. Designed to showcase the significance of the Island’s heritage while enhancing the visitor experience and supporting the local community and economy, the refurbishment of 1 Market Square reflects Manx National Heritage’s ongoing commitment to preserving and promoting the Island’s heritage, while adapting to the needs of today’s audiences and how visitors access information. This development preserves the building’s historic character while delivering valuable new facilities for residents and visitors.”
Pauline Wall, Head of Operations added ‘with a prime retail presence in the heart of Castletown, we aim to attract new visitors, reinvigorate public engagement with Manx National Heritage’s charitable mission and extend our offering in keeping with the Market Square’s already vibrant atmosphere’.
Members of the Board of Castletown Town Commissioners visited the new venue on its first day of opening and Vice-Chairman, Mr John Cringle said: “The Board of Castletown Town Commissioners would like to thank and congratulate Manx National Heritage for their vision, commitment and significant investment in turning a tired Bank building into the focal point of our Town Centre”.
“Coming into the shop the visual impact is amazing with a pictorial trip around the significant Heritage assets of our Island. The shop brings together an array of Manx producers with plans for craft workshops and a community space. We would urge people to visit as it is most definitely worth it”.
Manx National Heritage has strived to ensure that 1 Market Square was opened ahead of the TT Festival and is pleased to have achieved this milestone. Mrs Wall added:
“There are still a few finishing touches to be completed over the coming weeks, but it was important for us to be open ahead of the Pre‑TT Classic Road Races on Friday. We are delighted to have opened in time and look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to our new Heritage Hub.”
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