“King’s Harbour” or “King’s Cove.” That’s what Derby Haven means in Manx. This charming hamlet sits near Castletown, in the southern parish of Malew. Derby Haven is on the isthmus connecting Langness Peninsula to the rest of the Isle of Man.
In the 17th century, Derby Haven was a significant port. James, the 7th Earl of Derby, Lord of Mann, rebuilt the fort on nearby St Michael’s Isle in 1645. Henry VIII built the original fort in 1540. The purpose was to protect Derby Haven from parliamentarians during the English Civil War. Later, in the 18th century, the fort served as a lighthouse.
Derby Haven also has a plaque. It commemorates the Battle of Ronaldsway. A Manx revolt, led by Guðrøðr Magnússon, was crushed by Scottish forces in 1275.
Derbyhaven Beach is a secluded cove. It forms a crescent around the shallow, east-facing bay. A breakwater protects the bay. Windsurfers love the waters here. Scuba divers and leisure sailors also enjoy them.
The beach is mostly shingle. A sea wall and whitewashed buildings back it. Beyond the village, a small grassy verge comprises part of the golf course. Castletown Golf Links is next to the beach. A narrow causeway leads to St Michael’s Island, known as Fort Island. The ruins of a 17th-century fort are found here. There are also ruins of a 12th-century Celtic-Norse chapel. Both sets of ruins are closed to the public. However, there are walking paths offering scenic views. Fort Island is a registered Dark Sky Discovery site. It provides stunning views of the constellations.
This coastline is great for wildlife spotting. St Michael’s Island is a bird sanctuary. Dolphins and porpoises can sometimes be seen in the bay.
If you fancy a walk, try the Langness Peninsula. The yellow route is 1.5 miles around the lighthouse. The red route stretches 4 miles to Derby Haven Bay. Both routes start at the car park near the Lighthouse. You might spot harbour porpoises and dolphins off Langness.
Around the headland, you will find the Herring Tower. It is a small stone tower built in 1811. It served as a daymark for vessels to spot the peninsula.
Following the path along the east of the peninsula, you will pass by the Castletown Golf Links. Once you reach the old Golf Links Hotel, turn onto Fort Island Road. This road leads you to Derby Haven.
In Derby Haven Bay, you will also find a secluded island. It is a bird sanctuary. It contains the ruins of two ancient buildings. On the southern side is St Michael’s Chapel. It is a Celtic-Norse chapel dating from the 12th century. On the eastern side, there is Derby Fort. It dates from the 17th century. Derby Haven was a busy port during the English Civil War.
Derby Haven has a rich history. It has stunning natural beauty. It offers something for everyone. Take a moment to imagine Derby Haven’s past. Think of the battles, the sailors, and the wildlife. It’s a place where history and nature meet.