AN AGREEMENT has been signed between Manx National Heritage and the Welsh government which will enable Isle of Man residents free access to historic sites and buildings across Wales.

Friends of Manx National Heritage (FMNH) and Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, announced today that they have signed a reciprocal agreement which will benefit members of both organisations.  

From Jan 1, members of FMNH who are resident in the Isle of Man will be able to use their membership cards at any of Cadw’s many historic sites.  Cadw members will be able to use theirs at MNH sites in the Isle of Man.  

It opens up some wonderful opportunities for Manx residents to explore some of the greatest castles in Britain, dating back to the Middle Ages. Many of the biggest and best preserved of these historic monuments are in the care of the Welsh Government and are managed by Cadw. 

At the same time, the agreement could lead to an influx of visitors from Wales keen to see the Isle of Man’s unique historic sites and monuments.

Nicola Pemberton, Admin & Development Officer of FMNH, said, “I am delighted to announce this early Christmas present for FMNH members, which will greatly add to the benefits already available as part of FMNH membership.

“We have been working with our colleagues at Cadw to make our unique sites available to each other and this agreement is the culmination of that work.  We are also delighted that the Trustees of MNH have approved the agreement.

“We look forward to welcoming members of Cadw to the Isle of Man and I’m sure FMNH members will enjoy visiting such wonderful sites as Conwy Castle, Tintern Abbey & Caernarfon Castle – to name just a few”.

Carys Hewitt, Marketing & Public Relations Manager of Cadw, added, “It’s fantastic news that we are able to offer this additional benefit to both FMNH and Cadw members. I’m sure Cadw members will be delighted that they are now able to enjoy the fantastic sites on the Isle of Man, such as the House of Manannan, Peel Castle and much more - free of charge.

“We want to welcome new visitors to our monuments and we’re sure that FMNH members will enjoy exploring the great variety of Cadw sites in Wales. Most of our sites are open year round and a fantastic events programme runs throughout the year.

“Whether i’s a day in sword school or an evening being mesmerised by a digital sound and light show, a warm Welsh welcome awaits them.”