Manx Heritage Transport: Buses & Horse Trams

Buses & Horse Trams celebrates two landmark anniversaries in the Isle of Man’s transport story, bringing together the 150th anniversary of the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway and the 50th anniversary of the nationalisation of the Island’s bus services in a single commemorative stamp issue.

The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway, established in 1876, is the world’s oldest continuously operating horse drawn tramway and remains one of the Isle of Man’s most distinctive heritage transport experiences. Running along Douglas Promenade, it has evolved through periods of expansion, wartime interruption and modern preservation, while retaining its unique character and connection to the Island’s tourism history.

Bus travel on the Island reflects more than a century of development, from early charabanc excursions in the early 1900s through to the formation of National Transport in 1976 and today’s Bus Vannin network. This modern system continues to serve communities across the Island, reflecting decades of change and innovation in public transport.

This stamp issue brings together six designs showcasing both buses and horse trams across different eras. From historic tramway scenes to modern bus liveries, each stamp highlights a moment in the evolution of public transport on the Isle of Man, reflecting the vehicles, routes and services that have shaped Island life.

Imagery: Barry Edwards, Isle of Man Transport & Manx National Heritage
Text: Joshua Haworth
Design: Isle of Man Advertising
Printer: bpost
Process: Offset Lithography
Colours: 4
Paper: PVA Gummed 110gsm
Perforations: 11.5 per 2cm
Stamp Size: 40mm x 30mm
Format: Sheets of 12
Date of Issue: 31st July 2026
Limited Editions: Presentation Packs 1,000; First Day Covers 1,500