Marown

Is there a place where time stands still? Let me tell you about Marown, the only landlocked parish on the Isle of Man. Marown is nestled in the heart of the island, in the sheading of Middle. It’s a place steeped in history, where ancient traditions whisper on the wind. Marown boasts a rich tapestry of stories woven through its settlements of Braaid, Crosby, and Glen Vine. The River Dhoo meanders through this unique parish, carving its way through the landscape. Historically, Marown belonged to the sheading of Glenfaba, from 1796 until 1986. Today, while geographically east of the watershed and officially part of Middle, Marown shares local government services with the west of the island. This includes the Peel and Western District Housing Committee, Western Traffic Management Group, and Western Neighbourhood Policing. The parish’s governance lies with its Commissioners, and since 2001, Charles Fargher MBE has served as the Captain of the Parish. Politically, Marown is part of the Middle constituency, electing two Members to the House of Keys. Before 1986, however, it fell within the Glenfaba constituency. Within Marown, you’ll find glimpses into the past and present. The Church of England parish church, St Runius, stands proudly in Glen Vine. Its older counterpart, also named St Runius, is located in Crosby, alongside St Luke’s Church and a Methodist chapel. Education thrives at Marown Primary School in Glen Vine, built in the 1980s and expanded in 2001. Near the Old St Runius Church in Crosby, you’ll find the Marown Language Centre (Yn Ynnyd Çhengey in Manx). This center is a hub for foreign language teaching and teacher training. The very name “Marown” echoes the name of St Runius (or Rónán), the saint to whom the old church is dedicated. Grand historic homes like Ellerslie Manor, Ballacotch Manor, and Ballavagher House add to Marown’s allure. For those who love the outdoors, the Millennium Way and Heritage Trail, which follows the old Peel to Douglas railway line, wind through the parish. Even the Snaefell Mountain Course cuts through this unique landscape. The spirit of sport is alive in Marown. Marown A.F.C. competes in the Isle of Man Football League, playing their home games at the Memorial Playing Fields in Crosby. Crosby Cricket Club, founded in 1946, also calls the Memorial Playing Fields home. The parish further boasts Marown Badminton Club in Glen Vine, Marown Hockey Club, and Marown Bowling Club. Marown is more than just a place on a map. It is a living testament to a rich history and vibrant community.