A stay in Ballasalla brings together historical connections and practical leisure options. The link between Rushen Abbey and Monks’ Bridge is particularly clear: the bridge once connected the abbey with its lands, and the Silverdale Glen and Castletown Stroll leads from the abbey to the bridge. Silverdale Glen adds a playground, boating lake, café and a Victorian carousel to the mix. These different highlights can help you decide in advance whether you would like to include history, a walk or several leisure options in your visit.

Rushen Abbey and family-friendly activities

Family-friendly “Monky Business” activities are offered throughout the grounds of Rushen Abbey. The information specifically refers to the grounds as a whole. For families, this is a practical aspect of a visit; at the same time, it differs from the architectural history of Monks’ Bridge. At the abbey, the focus is therefore on activities, while the bridge is defined by its construction date and former function.

Monks’ Bridge and the walk along the Silverburn

Monks’ Bridge in Ballasalla is a medieval bridge dating from the 12th century. It once connected Rushen Abbey with its lands. Its former function gives the structure a historical significance beyond its date: the bridge was part of a connection between the abbey and its landholdings.

The Silverdale Glen and Castletown Stroll leads north from Rushen Abbey along the Silverburn to Monk’s Bridge. The description thus names a starting point, a route along the water, a direction and a specific destination. The historical connection and the walking route answer different questions: one describes what the bridge once connected, while the other shows where the named walk leads. Those interested in both aspects will find both a historical connection and a clear route description.

Silverdale Glen: playground, carousel and boating lake

Silverdale Glen has a children’s playground, a unique Victorian water-powered carousel, a boating lake and a café. The carousel stands out for two specific features: its Victorian age and its water-powered mechanism. Those interested in historical or technical features will find a point of particular interest here. The playground, boating lake and café each offer a different kind of visitor experience.

Silverdale Glen can be accessed from Ballasalla railway station. Toilets are available in the glen for visitors with disabilities. Check their current availability before your trip if this facility is important to your plans.

The attractions in Ballasalla can be easily distinguished: Rushen Abbey offers family-friendly activities throughout its grounds, the walk follows the Silverburn to the historically significant bridge, and Silverdale Glen brings together several visitor facilities. Choose your focus according to whether you would like to include activities, the historical connection or the facilities in the glen.

Discover more destinations: Onchan, Laxey, Andreas, St Johns, Port Erin, Douglas

Go to the main travel overview: Isle Of Man.