Manx Tourism Posters

Isle of Man Post Office is delighted to celebrate cherished memories of the Island’s tourism heyday with this collection of stamps featuring original travel posters.

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.

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.

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. 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.

© Manx National Heritage: M40384-8, P.6436-5, P.6355, P6314, P.3691