Don’t forget to say hello to the fairies as you cross the famous Fairy Bridge on the A5 between Douglas and Ballasalla. It’s a much-loved Isle of Man tradition, and locals will tell you that failing to greet the fairies could bring you bad luck, particularly if you’re on your way to the airport!
Visitors often leave small notes and messages tied to the nearby trees, hoping to receive a little fairy luck in return. There is only limited roadside parking, so please take care when stopping, especially during busy periods.
Over the years, plenty of stories have circulated about unfortunate events following a forgotten greeting, from lost passports and cancelled flights to broken-down cars and unexpected illnesses.
Even taxi, bus and coach drivers often remind passengers to say hello as they approach the bridge. If you’re travelling by bus, don’t be surprised to hear a quiet chorus of “hello fairies” from passengers as you cross. It’s all part of the tradition!