In common with Ireland and Scotland, the Isle of Man saw large-scale emigration in the later eighteenth and nineteenth centuries as Manx men, women and children left the Island to make a new life in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and other far-flung corners of the British Empire. Now large numbers of their descendants are returning to discover where their ancestors lived and worked, were married and were buried.

One of the joys of a visit to the Isle of Man is the sheer diversity of the localities packed into its 227 square miles. High among the favourites of many locals and visitors is the picturesque village of Laxey, about 7 miles up the East coast of the Island from the capital town, Douglas.

The south of the Island has much to offer, from heritage sites to adventurous walks, seaside villages and an abundance of local food and drink. This can all be experienced in a walk between Port Erin and Port St Mary!