King Charles III marks 150 years of the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway

Image Credit: Ian Longworth

The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway celebrated a landmark moment in its 150th anniversary year this week as His Majesty King Charles III, Lord of Mann, visited the Isle of Man to commemorate one of the world's oldest continuously operating passenger tramways.

The Royal visit included a number of engagements across the Isle of Man, marking His Majesty King Charles III's first visit to the island as Lord of Mann. The visit began with His Majesty King Charles III addressing Tynwald, following in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II, who first addressed the Manx parliament during her visit in 1955.

His Majesty then went on to meet members of the tramway team before unveiling a commemorative plaque marking the tramway's remarkable milestone. He then boarded Horse Tram 18, hauled by Bobby, for a short journey to Summerhill Stables, recognising the important role the historic tramway continues to play in the island's heritage and visitor experience.

Image Credit: Ian Longworth

First established in 1876, the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway has welcomed passengers for 150 years and remains a unique part of the UK's light rail story. Originally built to serve Victorian visitors arriving by steamer, the tramway continues to operate along Douglas Promenade using its historic fleet of horse-drawn tramcars, carefully preserved and maintained for future generations.

The anniversary also recognises the dedication of the many people who continue to care for and operate the tramway today, preserving an important part of transport heritage while ensuring it remains a living attraction for residents and visitors alike.

Ian Longworth, Vice Chair of the UKTram Heritage Committee and an Isle of Man resident, said,  

“It was fantastic to have the Lord of Mann visit and recognise the significance of this 150th anniversary year. The Islands trams, trains and other heritage attractions depend on tourism for their survival and such occasions help to keep them in the forefront of destinations to visit.”

Ahead of the visit, preparations were supported by a number of staff across the organisation, including work experience student Ruby Hammett, daughter of UKTram Managing Director James Hammett, who spent the previous week gaining an insight into the planning and organisation behind the high-profile event.

UKTram congratulates everyone involved in delivering such a memorable occasion and extends its congratulations to the Isle of Man team on this significant anniversary.