Peel may be famous for its stunning sunsets and ice-creams on the beach but there is so much more to do than admire the scenery on the west coast of the island.

Home to some of the island’s key heritage sites - Peel Castle, House of Manannan and the cathedral - Peel and the surrounding area also houses some thriving independent shops and businesses that rival any found in the capital or other towns around the Isle of Man.

Celtic Gold, for example, in Michael Street, Peel’s main shopping street, is a treasure trove of Celtic and Manx inspired jewellery, much of it lovingly handmade in the on-site workshop.

Just across the road, Bare Necessities provides a wide range of luxury and specialist lingerie, while down towards the beach on Stanley Mount you will find Castle Carpets offering carpets, vinyls, wood and laminate flooring with a full Island-wide fitting service.

Peel’s busy and picturesque marina is served by marine specialists Bevan’s, who boast more than 40 years’ experience in installing, repairing and refurbishing electronic and electrical systems on all types of marine craft.

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there’s a good choice of cafes and restaurants throughout the town. One of the newer establishments is Pizza Roman, offering stone-baked pizza, calzone and pasta. Its sister restaurant Anatolia provides a takeaway service.

Busy Bears Nursery and Pre-School on the edge of the Ballawattleworth estate has been providing quality day care for children from babies to pre-school in its purpose-built nursery since 2004.

Further north, BCC Cars IM, formerly Kirk Michael Motors, has an impressive 34-year history of sourcing cars and other motor vehicles for the Manx public.

Also found in Kirk Michael is Lee Mayers Butchers, a traditional butcher and bacon curer with a great range of Manx sourced meat.

You might well choose something from here to put on the barbecue at Glen Wyllin campsite.

Situated in a beautiful Manx glen, Glen Wyllin has four camping areas close to the beach with a choice of electric hook-ups and ready furnished tents for those who like a little more comfort too.

Ellan Vannin Fuels at Kirk Michael, Peel and Foxdale can provide all your home and vehicle fuel needs as well as handy convenience stores - and with the main road through Foxdale now open again there’s more than one way to get to the west.

Of course, it would be a shame to visit Peel and not have an ice-cream! Davison’s on Peel Promenade has won many awards for its Manx-made luxury ices and, if you are really feeling wicked or looking for a gift, stock hand-made Belgian chocolates as well.