The Isle of Man has long been a beloved holiday destination, and its rich tourism heritage is beautifully captured in this set of six stamps using meticulously digitised versions of posters that once adorned railway stations, ferry terminals, and travel agencies, enticing visitors to our Island’s shores. Each poster, a work of art in its own right, reflects the vibrancy and allure of the Isle of Man’s golden age of tourism.
The early to mid-20th century marked a boom in British domestic travel, with the Isle of Man emerging as a premier resort. At a time when international travel remained out of reach for many, the Island’s picturesque landscapes, sandy beaches, and unique attractions made it a top choice for holidaymakers from the UK. Posters played a crucial role in marketing this appeal, their bold colours and striking designs conjuring an irresistible sense of adventure and relaxation. Today, these posters remain highly collectable, not only for their artistic merit but also for their nostalgic charm and historical significance.
Among the featured posters in this stamp collection is the 1928 Sailings and Holiday Tours poster, an example of early travel advertising. It captures the romance of sea travel, showcasing the Isle of Man’s ferry connections, which were once among the busiest in the British Isles. Thousands of visitors would board steamers eager for their island getaway.
Another highlight is the whimsical 'Happy Holidays' poster featuring the beloved Manx cat, a breed native to the Island. This cheerful image encapsulates the carefree joy that the Isle of Man promised its visitors, reinforcing its identity as a fun-filled retreat. Equally nostalgic is the poster promoting the Isle of Man Railway, a transport network that provided tourists with scenic journeys across the Island’s rugged and beautiful terrain – as it does still.
1957 Golden Jubilee of the Isle of Man TT
Perhaps the most historically significant among the featured posters commemorates the 1957 Golden Jubilee of the Isle of Man TT, the world-famous motorcycle race. The TT has been a major draw for visitors since its inception in 1907, and this celebratory poster captures the thrill and prestige of an event that continues to attract racing fans from across the globe. The inclusion of this design in the stamp collection highlights the Isle of Man’s enduring reputation as a hub for motorsport tourism.
The rise of the Isle of Man’s tourism industry dates back to the late 19th century, when improvements in transport made the Island more accessible to British holidaymakers. The arrival of passenger steamers allowed thousands to flock to the Island each summer. By the early 20th century, Douglas had become a bustling resort town, boasting grand hotels, theatre, and promenade. Beyond the capital, attractions such as the Laxey Wheel, Groudle Glen, and Port Erin beach, among many others, became must-visit locations.
The interwar period and the post-war years saw the peak of Manx tourism, with holiday camps and guesthouses thriving. However, by the late 20th century, the industry faced decline as affordable air travel opened up new destinations in Spain and beyond. The traditional British seaside holiday faded in popularity, and the Isle of Man, like many other resorts, saw a reduction in visitor numbers. Despite this, the Island has successfully repositioned itself as a destination for heritage tourism, motorsport enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and many other visitors.
Maxine Cannon, General Manager of Stamps and Coins at Isle of Man Post Office, said: “These stamps serve as a tribute to the Isle of Man’s tourism legacy, celebrating both the artistry of vintage travel posters and the Island’s place in British holiday history. We are grateful to Manx National Heritage and the Mary Evans Picture Library for their support with this issue. As these designs grace envelopes around the world, they continue to inspire curiosity and admiration for the Isle of Man, just as they did in their original form decades ago. ”
The new stamp collection will be issued on 29th May 2025 and includes a Set, First Day Cover and Presentation Pack.
To view the collection and place your order please visit web link
To view and download high resolution images of our stamp collections please visit our Media Centre
