Manx National Heritage will be hosting an activity day at the Great Laxey Wheel this Sunday (27th September) to mark the 'birthday' anniversary of the historic site.

There will be a range of activities taking place throughout the day, including guided walks commencing every hour from 11am to 4pm; a children’s discovery trail; performances by the Mannin Folk Group; a photographic display of Laxey through the year, courtesy of Laxey resident Bill Snelling; and watercolour workshops where you can create your own painting of the Great Laxey Wheel. 

The Laxey Mines Railway will be running during the day and rail enthusiasts will have the chance to speak to the team who operate it.

Whilst in Laxey, visitors are also encouraged to enjoy a trip on the Snaefell Mountain Railway, which closes for the season at the end of the day. 

History of the Wheel that Keeps on Turning

Designed by local engineer, Robert Casement, the Laxey Wheel was built in 1854 to pump water from the Great Laxey lead mines.

The impressive 22-metre diameter structure found immediate popularity with visitors and locals alike and has remained one of the Island’s most dramatic tourist attractions for over 150 years.

The ‘Lady Isabella’ survived largely through the efforts of one man, Laxey builder Edwin Kneale, who acquired the wheel to save it from being scrapped.

Kneale operated the wheel as a tourist attraction until its purchase by the Manx Government in 1965, when a programme of complete restoration began in order to return the great wheel to its former glory.

Subsequent acquisition of a neighboring area of Glen Mooar made possible the creation of the Laxey Mines Trail.

The Great Laxey Wheel activity day takes place on Sunday 27th September 2009.  Normal admission charges apply and all are welcome to attend.