St. Michael's Isle

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St Michael's Isle (Fort Island), Isle of Man from Santon ©Gari 2005 (self)

St. Michael's Isle (Ynnys Vaayl in Manx), popularly referred to as Fort Island, is an island of the Isle of Man, noted for its attractive ruins. It is connected to the Langness Peninsula, Derbyhaven by a narrow causeway.

There are two ancient buildings situated on the isle. Both are in a state of ruin and closed to the public, though there are a number of walks which allow visitors to explore the surroundings.

St. Michael's Chapel, a 12th century chapel, is located at the southern end of the island. This Celtic-Norse chapel was built on the site of an older Celtic keeill.

Derby Fort, a 17th century fort, is located at the northern end of the island. Built by James Stanley, the 7th Earl of Derby and Lord of Mann in 1645, the fort was constructed during the English Civil War to protect the then busy port of Derbyhaven.

In addition to the ruins, the island serves as a bird sanctuary.