St Michael's Isle, Derbyhaven, United Kingdom

St Michael's Isle, popularly referred to as Fort Island, is noted for its attractive ruins. There is evidence for human activity on the island from the Mesolithic period onwards and there are two ancient buildings on the island. Both are in a state of ruin and closed to the public, though there are a number of walks which allow visitors to explore the surroundings.

St Michael's Chapel, a 12th-century chapel, is on the south side of the island. This Celtic-Norse chapel was built on the site of an older Celtic keeill.

The island is the site of two great battles for the control of the Isle of Man in 1250 and 1275, when England, Scotland and the Manx were fighting for control of the island. The Manx won the first battle, but 25 years later they lost control to Scotland.

Derby Fort, a 17th-century fort, is at the eastern end of the island. It was built by James Stanley, the 7th Earl of Derby and Lord of Mann in 1645, during the English Civil War, to protect the then busy port of Derbyhaven.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Simon (10 months ago)
Great place, nice scenery

Mike Percival (2 years ago)
Beautiful and tranquil, the birdlife is wonderful, great place for bird and seal watching

Matthew Brooks (3 years ago)
A one way drive to get there with passing places on the way we'll worth a visit tremendous panoramic views

Gary Ramsden (6 years ago)
My wife and i loved it the history of the ruins is mind blowing. Extra treat was the seals in the bay we were the only ones around and ghey even swam towards us for a nosey 5 of them fab memory

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright murphygb

Historic Site of the week

Clickimin Broch

The Broch of Clickimin is a large and well preserved, though somewhat restored broch near Lerwick. Originally built on an island in Clickimin Loch (now increased in size by silting and drainage), it was approached by a stone causeway. The water-level in the loch was reduced in 1874, leaving the broch high and dry. The broch is situated within a walled enclosure and, unusually for brochs, features a large 'blockhouse' between the opening in the enclosure and the broch itself. Another unusual feature is a stone slab featuring sculptured footprints, located in the causeway which approached the site. Situated across the loch is the Clickimin Leisure Centre.

St Michael's Isle

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historic Site of the week

Clickimin Broch