The Great Laxey Wheel - Queeyl Vooar Laksey : Manx National Heritage

About

The Great Laxey Wheel (or Lady Isabella) is the Isle of Man’s most iconic landmark and the largest working water wheel in the world. At 72 feet and 6 inches (over 22 metres) in diameter, this extraordinary feat of Victorian engineering was designed by Robert Casement and has brought visitors flocking to the picturesque village of Laxey for over 170 years.

During your visit, see the magnificent water wheel turning and take the 95 spiral steps to the viewing platform above the wheel. When reaching the top, feel the rush of water as the wheel turns beneath your feet and enjoy panoramic views of Glen Mooar Valley.

Beyond the wheel, the story of the lives of Laxey miners unfolds as you explore the mines trail and head underground into the entrance to the mine.

The Great Laxey Wheel is a ‘must see’ when visiting the Isle of Man and is one of the Island’s most memorable visitor experiences.

Conserving the Wheel

The next phase of conservation and improvement works at the Great Laxey Wheel is set to begin, supporting Manx National Heritage’s ongoing commitment to preserving this iconic landmark.

Works will include the removal of the former ticket office, which welcomed over one million visitors during its 40-year history, following the opening of the new Visitor Welcome Hub and Shop.

Recent conservation projects have included repointing and repainting the wheel’s historic rod duct. Over the winter months, refreshed interpretation across the site will help visitors discover more about Lady Isabella’s fascinating history, Victorian engineering and the Island’s mining heritage.

These improvements will enhance the visitor experience while ensuring the Great Laxey Wheel remains protected and celebrated for generations to come.

Find out more

Opening Times

Reopening March 2027.

Admission

Adult £14 – all visitors have the option to make a voluntary donation of £1.50 at point of entry

Student £7 (over 18 with a valid Student Card)

Children FREE (children aged 16 or under must be accompanied by an adult)

Multi-site savings available please click HERE for more information

Your admission:

All admission tickets for The Great Laxey Wheel have the option to make a donation of £1.50 to Manx National Heritage (Isle of Man registered charity no. 603). This donation directly supports the ongoing conservation and management of the Isle of Man’s most significant historic buildings, landscapes, archives and museum collections. Should you wish to opt out of this voluntary contribution, please inform a member of staff at the ticket desk at the time of purchase.
Children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Some special events may incur an additional admission charge.
Student discount is available on production of a valid student card.
Group discounts are available to pre-booked group visitors of 15 or more paying visitors booked 7 days in advance. Find out more.
Holiday and Annual Passes – admission is only permitted on production of a valid card. Cards are valid for the named person and are not transferable. ID may also be requested. Free access is for 14 days from the first day of use on a Holiday Pass and 1 Year from first date of use on an Annual Pass for Isle of Man residents.
Free admission is available to children under 18 years of age, persons accompanying a disabled visitor, GO Explore Heritage and GO Platinum Reserve Passes for use with trams, trains and bus transport and Members of the Friends of Manx National Heritage and organisations holding an agreement with Manx National Heritage. Entry available to the named member only on presentation of a valid membership card. Restrictions may apply. For details on our reciprocal arrangements, please consult your membership handbook.