EXCEPTIONAL Redevelopment Opportunity
- Historic Port Erin Landmark
- Approved for 8 New Luxury Apartments
- Located near all Amenities
ERIN HOUSE | PORT ERIN | ISLE OF MAN
- CELEBRATING 125 YEARS in 2026 -
ERIN HOUSE | PORT ERIN | ISLE OF MAN
ERIN HOUSE DESIGN & BUILDING PLANS
Location Plan
01/25
ERIN HOUSE | PORT ERIN | ISLE OF MAN
THE STORY OF ERIN HOUSE
By 1901, when Athol Park Estate had been mapped out, 14 of its 113 “very eligible” building plots had already been sold at prices reaching £50 each. The Erin House lot, having one of the largest footprints, was one of the first to be acquired by mortgage at 4½ % interest. Only two dwelling houses existed then, but with the picturesque glen, a new broad road, a substantial stone bridge and direct access to the shore and the highway, progress was clearly underway. Homes would shortly be commanding £3 in monthly rental income.
The Victorian era continued beyond the Queen’s reign and increasingly, members of society could afford the luxury of transportation and family holidays throughout Britain and the Isle of Man. Port Erin was marketed as one of the most popular towns on the Island with “healthful and exhilarating air testified to by its very low death rate and the unequalled beauty of its bay and surroundings”. Indeed, Athol Park Estate’s appeal was highlighted by “its proximity to the railway, the shore, the countryside and its special advantages”, and about 7 homes were being built annually.
A number of recognisable family names surfaced during Athol Park’s early years. Richard Cain owned the land (having worked for James Mylchreest before purchasing the Castletown Brewery and becoming an MHK and Director of Steam Packet Company). Joseph Qualtrough, then purchased 9 lots in total and contracted the construction of Erin House, most likely in early 1902. He was a renowned boat builder, actively involved in his timber business (founded by James Coole) and fondly remembered as “Father of the Manx Legislature”. Political players contributed in large part to the growth and popularity of boarding houses, and skilled tradesman such as builders James Costain and Joseph McArd were increasingly in demand as new roads, utilities and street lighting were established.
In late 1902, records show that Erin House was formerly under the care of Mrs. and Miss Dyer who would soon become proprietresses for those seeking “comfortable apartments”. And unlike many other accommodations, both cold and hot running water would soon be plumbed. The building was advertised for swimmers and golfers alike, at least until World War I, and letting terms were “most reasonable”. Shortly thereafter, Erin House would be promoted as a private hotel with “food and service of a high standard” and in the years ahead, Mrs. Hobson, Mrs. Swales and Mrs. Crebbin would each be offering unparalleled amenities with bed, breakfast and high tea or full board.
On 19 June 1930, a serious outbreak of fire occurred from the attic and an alarm was raised. According to reports, large quantities of furniture and utensils were removed, and smoke began to appear in dense volumes from the roof. Captain Corris of the fire brigade was soon on scene and rapidly had his hose connections and two lengths in place. Within 10 minutes, and with great skill, he and his men had battled the flames and had this “unfortunate conflagration under control”.
World War II brought a new chapter to the Island as 3,500 female internees began a new and uncertain life in Port Erin. Most occupied rooming houses along the Promenade but some were living in Athol Park Estate. Joseph Qualtrough was by now deceased, but his heirs continued to host guests (mostly British) until the property was sold to Mr. J.H. Cubbon, a Manx Freemason who operated several buildings. Erin House had become “highly recommended for excellent food and comfort, with lounges and a television” and all bedrooms featured “spring interior mattresses”.
The property was enlarged in the 1960s with additional accommodations on its east side, and in 1975 Erin House was converted to a Residential Home, caring for many in their twilight years. By 1995, then under the ownership of Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Smith, the building became a boarding house once again, with as many as 25 bedrooms, until she soon grew old and tired herself. Fortunately however, history will reflect the remarkable times of all who visited over the past century, and today, now fully approved for a grand renovation well beyond its former glory with 8 new luxury apartments, Erin House will once again stand tall.
ERIN HOUSE | PORT ERIN | ISLE OF MAN
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule a site visit, please contact:
- Black Grace Cowley - Mark Grace 01624 645550 or
- Chrystals - Darrel Tinnion 07624 301185 or
- DeanWood - Jimmy McWhinnie 01624 611007 #3
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ERIN HOUSE | PORT ERIN | ISLE OF MAN
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