Explore the Shore in Douglas Bay Marine Nature Reserve

6th July 2024

Did you know Douglas Bay is a Marine Nature Reserve, home to incredible sea creatures and habitats?

UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man Partner, Douglas City Council, is holding Douglas Beach Day on Saturday 6 July, and it's your chance to find out more about the marine life in Douglas Bay!

Amid all the fun activities, UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man are running shore walks on what lies beyond the shoreline in the Marine Nature Reserve. The sessions will be led by two knowledgeable marine experts: Dr Peter Duncan, Senior Marine Environment Officer for the Isle of Man Government, and Jon Russell-Dunn, an experienced marine observer who has explored Douglas Bay for years.

A flat periwinkle on seaweed                     

Walks will start at 14:00, 15:00, and 16:00 and will last up to an hour. The event is free but booking is essential. To book, contact biosphere@gov.im marking your email 'Douglas Beach Day', and include the names of all attendees, ages of under 16s, the number in your group, a phone number in case of changes on the day, and any needs, allergies, or conditions to be aware of.

Please note that these sessions are not suitable for under-fives or anyone who cannot walk on uneven surfaces, and dogs are not permitted. All those taking part must wear sturdy footwear suitable for a little clambering over rocks - strictly no flip flops or sandals - and suitable clothing for the conditions on the day. 

The meeting point will be the UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man gazebo on Queen's Promenade, Douglas; arrive in good time for the start of your session, to allow for a health and safety briefing. 

Find out more about Douglas Bay Marine Nature Reserve in this short video.

Photos by Jon Russell-Dunn

GET INVOLVED

If you love the Isle of Man and want to help keep it special, there are a variety of ways to get involved in UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man projects. Here are a few suggestions.

Please help us spread the word about Biosphere Isle of Man!