Annual Tower of Refuge walkout returns

Event taking place at low-tide on 1 September

An annual organised walkout to the Tower of Refuge will return this year on 1 September.

It's when the tide goes out far enough for people to be able to walk the route from Douglas promenade to Conister Rock.

The event didn't take place in 2022 as it was felt the tides wouldn't go out far enough.

Sponsored by Tower Insurance, this year's event will start at around 6.15pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Thousands have taken part in the annual walk since 2012 in aid of the RNLI.

Built on Conister Rock in Douglas in 1832, the construction of the Tower was the idea of Sir William Hillary, founder of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and a one-time member of the Douglas lifeboat crew.

It was designed as a shelter for the crews of vessels which were wrecked on the nearby reef.

Douglas City Centre Manager Oliver Cheshire said: ‘We are delighted to announce the return of the Tower of Refuge Walk. It is such a popular community event with both locals and holidaymakers and has attracted many thousands over the last decade.

‘A lack of large spring tides during the lighter nights prevented it from happening in 2022 so it’s great to be back, in partnership with Isle of Man Coastguard and, once more, the sponsorship of Tower Insurance for which we are extremely grateful.

‘A big thank you to both organisations and, while we hope the weather is fine, urge everyone taking part to wrap up warm as it’s always cooler out there than you’d expect.’

Those wanting to take part are asked to wear suitable clothing and footwear, while instructions from coastguards and stewards must be followed at all time.

Access to the beach will be via either the steps at the Bottleneck car park or any steps north of Broadway.