1st October 2026 was another significant date in the history of public transport on the Isle of Man as it marked 50 years to the day since bus services were nationalised and that was enough of an excuse for Steven Hughes to pay a visit to Mannin. In this pictorial article we take a look at some of the trams seen on this visit.
The day saw a fallen tree on the Manx Electric Railway cause delays and cancellations with no service able to run between Derby Castle and Laxey after approximately 1300. But we still see some of the MER services in action as well as the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway and the Snaefell Mountain Railway as well.
The latest tram to return to service on the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway after a major restoration is Sunshade 32. It is seen here at Derby Castle being readied for its next departure with Alec set to provide the traction.
32 departs from Derby Castle. Also note on the far right hand side the bright yellow traverser which has also recently returned to Strathallan sheds.
Manx Electric Railway Winter Saloon 19 comes into Laxey.
Up at Snaefell Summit and its blue skies all around for this view of 5 as it waits time before heading down to Laxey again.
Back down at Laxey and it’s the class Snaefell Moutain Railway and Manx Electric Railway shot. Over on the far is Snaefell car 4 and closest to us is MER Tunnel Car 9.
Snaefell Mountain Railway 1 heads out of Laxey Station.
And completing the set of operational Snaefell trams is 2 which is also seen at Laxey.
Manx Electric Railway Winter Saloon 19 passes the Mine’s Tavern at Laxey. (All Photographs by Steven Hughes, 1st October 2026)