The former home of the Manx Parliament and centre of 19th Century political life on the Isle of Man. Animated portraits of Keys members and a simulated model of Mr Speaker bring the debating chamber to life. The Secretary of the House welcomes you to join in the debates on law setting in this participatory experience.
Open for bookable sittings every Saturday at 1.45pm from 1 April – 31 October 2023
The Old House of Keys can also be visited on our Castletown Site Tours – Every Saturday at 10am from 1 April – 31 October 2023
Adults £9
Children FREE
Students over 18 with a valid Student Card half price.
Please note the sittings are suitable for Secondary School aged children upwards.For any children under this age parent/carer discretion advised.
Drone Policy: The flying of unauthorised drones is not permitted at the Old House of Keys.
Holiday Passes for visitors.
Group discounts available to pre-booked group visitors of 15 or more paying visitors.
Pre-book in advance.
Free entry available to children aged 5 to 18.
Student entry half price with a current student card, including tours.
Annual Passes for Isle of Man residents.
Go Explore Heritage Passes for use with trams, trains and bus transport.
Free entry available to members of the Friends of Manx National Heritage, National Trust, English Heritage, CADW, Historic Scotland 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, please consult your membership handbook.
Please note: concessions may not apply for special events.
The Old House of Keys (Shenn Thie yn Chiare as Feed) in Castletown was once the centre of 19th century political life on the Isle of Man.
The fascinating Old House of Keys building has been restored to its former appearance of 1866 – a milestone in Manx history when the old self-elected House of Keys took its first steps along the road to modern democracy by passing the House of Keys Election Bill and becoming a popularly elected body.
You’ll meet the costumed secretary of this historic building before taking a seat in the finely restored debating chamber where you’ll enjoy an active debate on setting the laws of the Island. During your visit you’ll see how democracy developed in the Island – sometimes years ahead of England – and the effect that political decisions have had and continue to have on the Manx nation. Should motor racing be allowed on open roads? Should women get the vote? You decide!
Please note the sittings are suitable for Secondary School aged children upwards. For any children under this age parent/carer discretion advised.
Address: Parliament Square, Castletown, IM9 1LF
Phone: +44 1624 822306
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