Sulby Claddagh to open for overnight stays

People will be able to stay overnight at the Sulby Claddagh this season, but there will be some changes.

The area is normally available between May and September, but so far this year has been off limits due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Following the end of these measures the Government will reopen the Claddagh in stages -starting with motorhomes and caravans on Friday 3 July. 

Camping in tents will be allowed from Friday 17 July - when the toilet facilities reopen.

When overnight camping returns there will be a number of noticeable changes to how the Claddagh is run, so it complies with model standards for campsites, health and safety standards and current byelaws. 

They include the limiting and spacing of camping pitches, the introduction of a permanent on site warden and check-in and check-out times.

To stay people will need to book a pitch via Eventbrite and a £16 permit which allows them to stay for a maximum of 14 nights. 

Both the booking reference and permit, which can be applied for online at www.gov.im/camping or by emailing forestry@gov.im, must be brought to site for inspection.

Permits must be clearly displayed and cannot be purchased on site. 

Anyone found camping without a permit can be fined up to £2,500. 

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, who manage the site, said: ‘I recognise the importance of the Claddagh to local people and I’m delighted to see it opening again. We have had to make changes and my department is working hard to make sure the user experience is good.

‘The department is aware that many commercial campsites are facing difficult economic times - so we encourage campers, who normally use the site, to try out some of the Island’s wonderful registered campsites first.’

The Claddagh is available to all during the day for picnics and recreation.