Need cash when I land, best place in Isle of Man? Airport or places in the city?
I made the rookie mistake of exchanging at the airport on my first visit to the Isle of Man - the rate was terrible. Since then, I just use Isle of Man Bank ATMs in Douglas or at the airport itself. They spit out Manx pounds, which are fine locally, but I always make sure to spend them before flying back since shops in London didn’t take them. Most places accept cards, so I only carry cash for taxis or pubs.
Airport exchange counters on the Isle of Man aren’t very competitive. ATMs from Lloyds, HSBC, and Isle of Man Bank are all over Douglas and at the airport, so withdraw directly in GBP removed link Both currencies are equal, but only Manx notes may not be accepted back in the UK mainland. Most locals use cards anyway. Best approach: take a modest withdrawal at the airport, maybe £50-100, then handle the rest by card. Don’t rely on exchange counters unless you must.
When I landed at Ronaldsway Airport, I ignored the exchange desk and went straight to an Isle of Man Bank ATM. Worked fine with my Mastercard. Manx pounds came out, but they’re equal to GBP, so no issue. Shops and hotels in Douglas took cards anyway. I kept about £100 cash for taxis and pubs, but honestly, I barely touched it. Don’t bother with airport counters unless you’re carrying USD or euros that you want to swap. ATMs are simpler.
Isle of Man Airport does have exchange counters, but you’ll lose money on the rate. ATMs from Lloyds, HSBC, and Isle of Man Bank are better. They dispense GBP or Manx pounds, which are 1:1 with sterling. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, so you won’t need much cash. I normally withdraw £50 at the airport ATM for buses and snacks, then use my card. Exchanging at the counter is only worthwhile if your home bank card doesn’t work.