Manx hills in new book

'As old as the hills' is a great Manx expression. But how much do we know about our picturesque and sometimes forbidding uplands?

A new book, 'Manx Hills', provides a pictorial guide to walking in and around the hills and mountain.

Designed to fit into a coat pocket, the small book includes route diagrams of suggested walking routes as well as 40 pencil sketches of the hills and points of interest.

The book has been written and drawn by local resident Tom Sinden. Tom began walking in the hills as a member of 1st Arbory Scouts in the 1990s, including taking part in the 10 Peaks Challenge competition on several occasions.

'Having used the Wainwright Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland fells during holidays in Cumbria, I had the idea to write a similar short guide to the hills and mountain on the Isle of Man,' Tom said.

Meayll Circle, as drawn by Tom

'I started the project at the beginning of 2020, doing many of the drawings in the evening during the Covid lockdowns, and finally completed the book towards the end of 2022.'

Tom, a registered buildings officer with the Isle of Man Government, said: 'I don’t think that anywhere near enough is made of the walks and scenery on offer on the Island. The uplands are generally very quiet, and the views of the island itself, of the Irish Sea, and further afield, are wonderful.

'I’ve included very brief introductions to the Island’s geology and history, as well as some Manx proverbs and folklore, to give a bit of context to the walks and places of interest along the routes.

'Hopefully my little guide gives both locals and visitors a glimpse of the sort of walks that are available.'

'Manx Hills' is on sale at Bridge Bookshop in Port Erin and Ramsey, and via its online store priced £10.

Main photo: Tom and his wife wife Martha near the top of Cronk-ny-Arrey Laa.