Rushen Abbey

Concessions available:

• Holiday Passes providing multi-site admission.
• Group discounts available to pre-booked group visitors of 15 or more paying visitors. Pre-book in advance.
• Free entry available to Isle of Man School children with a valid ACE card.
• 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.

Situated in Ballasalla

Almost 900 years ago, King Olaf I gave land for an Abbey. People have been drawn here ever since.

Learn about Abbey life through the ages, from the 1180’s to strawberry tea dancing to the heady days of 1980s disco. Visitors can follow the family friendly ‘Monky Business’ activities including throwing a pot on the potter’s wheel, making sounds of the Abbey and the fruit picking challenge in the Jam Factory. You can also enjoy time in gardens with play mats and toys available for babies and tots, this peaceful setting is the perfect location for a family picnic.

Originally a home for monks of the Sauvignac Order, Rushen Abbey came under Cistercian control and was developed as the Isle of Man’s seat of religious power housing the main body of knowledge and literacy for the Island.

Stroll through the Abbey Gardens to find remains of substantial medieval buildings, blossom trees and an array of herbs and flowers – many used to cure common ailments. You can also follow the footpath beyond the Abbey to the 14th century Monk’s Bridge in the nearby Silverdale Glen.

Don’t miss:

• ‘Have a go’ at archaeology in the outdoor sandpit
• Stories of the famous strawberry and cream tea dances
• The Chronicles of Man, the earliest written account of the Isle of Man
• Delicious food in the Abbey Restaurant – it’s advisable to pre-book on 01624 822393