The history of Peel and some of its characters come to life when you follow “The Bead Walk”, a short walk between Peel’s two Cathedral buildings that’s packed with links to personal stories and more than 80 historical facts.

“The Bead Walk” is on a set of cards that was inspired by “The Pagan Lady’s Necklace”.  The necklace of 71 differently coloured beads, dating from the 10th Century, was discovered in a grave in Peel Castle last century.  This personal item, rich with history, motivated the creation of a series of paintings of eight notable places in Peel, each reproduced on a card.  For each location the card also gives related stories showing how individuals, industry, church, global interests and politics – and even the smuggling trade – helped to shape the Peel of today.

Together the eight cards guide you on an easy walk through Peel, making history live in the present day, and embracing life from seafaring to philanthropy, Manx Wildlife to Archibald Knox, and hostelries to the Pope.  Along the way through Peel there are shops to browse and inns and cafés for refreshments.

“These are attractive greetings cards” says Very Revd Nigel Godfrey, Dean of the Cathedral, “and they can also guide you on a stroll through Peel giving some of its more intimate history.  It can be a way of enjoying a couple of hours whether on your own, or with family or friends, and getting a real insight into the people and history that make Peel the place it is.”

“The Bead Walk” set of cards has been created by the Cathedral Quarter Trust and they are available on sale for £5 per pack at the Cathedral bookstall, in the Leece Museum on East Quay, and in shops around Peel.