Next Friday (August 7) marks a truly special milestone in the Isle of Man’s history.

The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway celebrates its 150th anniversary with a day of festivities bringing together the community, visitors, past and present staff, and everyone who has a special connection with this much-loved heritage attraction.

For a century and a half, the iconic horse trams have travelled along Douglas Promenade, creating memories for generations of residents and visitors.

As the oldest operating horse-drawn tramway of its kind in the world, the service remains one of the island’s most treasured symbols of tradition, craftsmanship and Manx identity.

To mark this remarkable anniversary, a special free celebration is taking place at Strathallan Tram Depot, inviting everyone to come along and share in the celebrations.

The event promises a fantastic day of entertainment for all ages, with family activities, live music, stable tours, special guests, giveaways and the opportunity to meet the famous tram horses and the dedicated team who care for them.

It's a special occasion to mark 150 years of the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway
It's a special occasion to mark 150 years of the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway (-)

A highlight of the celebrations will be the special celebratory cavalcades featuring Tram Car No. 18 – the world’s oldest operating double-decker horse tram, dating back to 1883.

This historic tram has already played a starring role in another unforgettable chapter in the tramway’s history, when His Majesty King Charles III, Lord of Mann, travelled aboard it during his visit to the Isle of Man on 14 July 2026.

During that visit, His Majesty unveiled a commemorative plaque marking the 150th anniversary of the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway, recognising the importance of the service as part of the Island’s unique heritage.

Visitors attending the celebration next week will be able to enjoy a packed programme of activities, including face painting, a balloon artist, a colouring competition with fantastic prizes, and live Manx music from Elizabeth Davidson-Blythe and Daniel Quayle.

A special birthday cake-cutting ceremony with the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway team will provide a fitting centrepiece to the afternoon, celebrating not only the tramway’s incredible history but also the people who have worked tirelessly over the years to keep this unique service operating.

There will also be a special question-and-answer session with members of the stable team, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes insight into the care, skill and dedication required to look after the much-loved tram horses and maintain this historic Victorian transport system.

The celebrations will include complimentary anniversary cupcakes for the first 150 passengers, while the Home of Rest for Old Horses will also join in the occasion.

The Terminus Tavern will be supporting the event by offering customers who present a Douglas Bay Horse Tramway ticket purchased or travelled on the day a special 15% discount on food and drink.

The 150th anniversary is more than just a celebration of a transport service, it is a celebration of the people, communities and generations who have helped make the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway such an enduring part of Island life.

From the skilled staff and stable teams who care for the horses, to the passengers who have enjoyed countless journeys along Douglas Promenade, the tramway’s story is one built on dedication, pride and affection.

A special invitation is extended to all current and former staff members, along with their families, to join in marking this incredible anniversary.