King Charles speaks Manx and French during historic first Isle of Man visit as monarch

King Charles has spoken in Manx and French during his visit to the Isle of Man today.

The monarch made his inaugural visit to the island since ascending to the throne, where he delivered an address to the Tynwald parliament before demonstrating his linguistic abilities in the ancient Manx tongue.

His Majesty, who holds the title Lord of Mann, greeted parliamentarians in their native language during a special sitting of the assembly in Douglas.

The monarch acknowledged that 2026 marks Manx Language Year, stating: "I am aware that this year is Manx language year, blein ny Gaelgey."

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The Manx language has experienced a resurgence in recent times, and the King's efforts to honour this revival were warmly received by those assembled.

The chamber erupted in laughter when the King quipped: "So I very much hope I have not succeeded at this point in massacring this wonderful celebration of your language!"

His Majesty praised the Tynwald as holding "a remarkable distinction" as the world's oldest parliament in continuous operation, noting that this longevity reflects both institutional strength and the enduring bond between the Crown and the island's people.

The King also recalled the first royal visit to the self-governing crown dependency, when Prince Albert arrived in September 1847, rowing ashore from the steam-driven royal yacht Victoria And Albert and disembarking at Ramsey.

Following the formal parliamentary proceedings, the King mingled with well-wishers gathered outside the building, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries with the crowd.

His linguistic versatility was further displayed when he spoke in French with Fabienne Favray, a native French speaker who has resided on the island for twelve years.

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The monarch then made his way to Douglas's seafront to mark a significant milestone in local transport history.

Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the city's horse-drawn tram service, His Majesty travelled along part of the promenade aboard a recently restored double-decker tram, greeted by crowds lining the route.

Prior to boarding the historic tram, the King spent time with the team responsible for the fleet's restoration.

Among those he spoke with was Peter Cannon, aged 68, who joined the service at seventeen and has now completed 51 years of employment, making him the longest-serving member of staff.

His Majesty also had a poignant encounter with James Fenton, a 104-year-old veteran who served in Burma during the Second World War.

The day's engagements concluded with a garden party, rounding off a visit that showcased both the island's rich heritage and the warm relationship between the Crown and this distinctive crown dependency.

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