Near Ballaquark Bungalow, Douglas
Ballaquark is in the Farmhill area of Douglas — an excellent base for coastal walks, glens and sections of the island’s long-distance path. All distances are approximate. Check weather and path conditions before setting out. Sturdy footwear is recommended for cliff and glen sections.
| Best for coastal views | Douglas → Port Soderick via Marine Drive |
| Best varied walk | Douglas Bay & Groudle Glen |
| Best easy option | Douglas River Glass Walk |
| Long-distance classic | Raad ny Foillan (Way of the Gull) |
One of the best local walks and a section of the Raad ny Foillan coastal path. Start from Douglas Head or the harbour and follow the largely traffic-free Marine Drive along dramatic cliffs with outstanding sea views. Pass the Camera Obscura and continue to Port Soderick Glen and beach. Return by the Isle of Man Steam Railway (seasonal) for a classic combined walk-and-train outing. Firm surfaces make it a good choice after rain.
A varied loop that packs a lot into one day: Douglas promenade, a steep climb around the bay with panoramic views, rocky cliffs, the restored Groudle Glen Railway, and two pretty wooded glens with tumbling streams. Excellent if you want coastal scenery plus sheltered woodland.
A gentle riverside path following the Rivers Dhoo and Glass through woodland in the heart of Douglas. Starts near the National Sports Centre (Groves Road). Ideal for a quieter stroll or a recovery day after longer walks.
An urban and heritage trail taking in 57 points of interest around Douglas and its outskirts. Celebrates the town’s landscapes, architecture, history and culture. Convenient from Farmhill and a good option when weather is changeable.
The Isle of Man’s premier long-distance footpath. Approximately 95–100 miles (150–160 km) forming a complete loop around the coast. Officially starts and finishes at the Millennium Bridge over Douglas Harbour. Waymarked with a gull symbol on a blue background.
You do not need to walk the whole route. Local day stages from Douglas include the Marine Drive section south toward Port Soderick / Derbyhaven, or the northern approach via Laxey, Groudle and Onchan Head. The path passes beaches, cliffs, glens and farmland and offers some of the best coastal walking in the British Isles.
Marine Drive and the east coast can offer sightings of Risso’s dolphins (summer), bottlenose dolphins and minke whales (autumn/winter), and occasional basking sharks. The glens are good for woodland birds and wild flowers in season.
Enjoy the walks — and come back for a cup of tea afterwards!