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Corrin's Tower, Isle of Man

Historic memorial tower atop Peel Hill offering sweeping coastal views and a poignant glimpse into Isle of Man’s heritage.

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Corrin's Tower, also known as Corrin's Folly, is a historic four-story stone tower built in 1806 by Thomas Corrin atop Peel Hill on the Isle of Man. Originally constructed as a mausoleum and memorial to Corrin's wife Alice and family, the tower offers panoramic views of Peel, the Irish Sea, and on clear days, distant hills of Ireland and Scotland. Surrounded by a small graveyard and accessible via scenic walking paths, it is a poignant landmark blending history, architecture, and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Corrin's Tower

  • Corrin's Tower, Isle of Man, IM
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes as the path to Corrin's Tower involves a moderate uphill walk over uneven terrain.
  • Visit on a clear day or at sunset for the best panoramic views across the Irish Sea and distant mountains.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the peaceful surroundings near the tower and its small burial ground.
  • Check local event calendars for occasional guided tours or cultural events near the tower.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take bus routes 4, 5, 5A, X5, 6, or 6A from Douglas or Ramsey to Peel. Buses run regularly with journey times of approximately 45 to 60 minutes. From Peel, the tower is accessible by foot via marked paths.

  • Car

    Drive to Peel via main roads from across the Isle of Man. Parking is available near Fenella Beach car park or Peel Harbour. From there, it is a 15-20 minute uphill walk to Corrin's Tower. Terrain is uneven and moderately steep.

  • Walking/Hiking

    For a more active approach, start from Peel Harbour and follow footpaths leading up Peel Hill to Corrin's Tower. The walk takes about 20-30 minutes and involves moderate elevation gain on uneven ground. Suitable footwear recommended.

Corrin's Tower location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions

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Discover more about Corrin's Tower

A Personal Memorial on Peel Hill

Corrin's Tower was erected in 1806 by Thomas Corrin as a deeply personal monument to his beloved wife Alice, who tragically died in childbirth, and to his family. Situated on the highest point of Corrin's landholding, the tower was intended as a mausoleum and memorial, with a small burial ground adjacent to it where Alice and two of Corrin's children were laid to rest. The site reflects Corrin's non-conformist beliefs and his desire to create a lasting tribute to his family, marked by stone pillars and memorial tablets within the tower and around the graveyard.

Architectural Features and Interior

The tower rises four stories high and is constructed from local limestone, embodying early 19th-century architectural style with a distinctive central pillar that starts square on the ground floor and gradually becomes round as it ascends to the roof. The interior, though currently locked to the public, contains inscriptions commemorating the Corrin family. Notably, the east-facing windows on the first three floors were blocked up due to complaints from local fishermen who mistook the tower’s light for the Peel breakwater light, adding a unique historical quirk to its structure.

Stunning Panoramic Views

Perched atop Peel Hill, Corrin's Tower commands breathtaking views over the town of Peel, the western coastline of the Isle of Man, and the expansive Irish Sea. On clear days, visitors can see as far as the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland and the Mull of Galloway in Scotland, making it a spectacular vantage point for nature lovers and photographers. The surrounding landscape features lush greenery and coastal vistas, creating a serene atmosphere ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.

Historical Legacy and Ownership

After Thomas Corrin’s death in 1845, his wish to be buried at the tower was initially denied by his son, who preferred consecrated ground. However, after the burial ground was consecrated, Corrin’s body was moved to the site. The tower and surrounding land were given to the Board of Trade in 1840 to prevent demolition, preserving it as a historical landmark. Today, Corrin's Tower stands as a testament to the Corrin family’s legacy and the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Access and Surrounding Experience

The tower is accessible via several footpaths, primarily from the Peel Harbour side near the marina bridge or Fenella Beach car park. The walk to the tower involves a moderate uphill climb, rewarding visitors with tranquil surroundings and expansive views. While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior and adjacent graves are well worth the visit. The proximity to Peel also allows exploration of local shops, cafes, and the historic Peel Castle, enriching the overall experience.

A Place of Reflection and Natural Beauty

Corrin's Tower offers more than just historical interest; it is a place where visitors can connect with the island’s natural beauty and contemplative spirit. The combination of its poignant backstory, striking architecture, and panoramic vistas makes it a unique landmark on the Isle of Man, inviting quiet reflection and appreciation of the surrounding landscape.

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