Old House of Keys

The Old House of Keys is a museum building in Castletown that contains a historical debating hall with wooden seating and a central speaking platform. The rooms show how the island once discussed and passed its laws.

The building was constructed in 1821 as a Georgian parliament house and served as the meeting place for the House of Keys until relocating to Douglas in 1874. This move marked a turning point in the island's governance.

The name refers to the historic parliament of the island, and visitors can see the original wooden benches where lawmakers once sat during discussions. The space still conveys the importance these debates held for the community.

The site offers guided tours through the original rooms where visitors can learn more about parliamentary processes. It is advisable to check in advance which areas are currently accessible, as some parts of the building may be closed at times.

The building preserves the locations where women first gained voting rights on the island, and visitors can sit in the same seats where these historic votes took place. This location documents a moment that advanced political equality.

Location: Castletown

Inception: January 1821

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Operator: Manx National Heritage

Website: http://gov.im/mnh/heritage/museums/houseofkeys

GPS coordinates: 54.07339,-4.65208

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:11