Fairy Bridge (Isle of Man)

The Fairy Bridge is a small bridge on the Isle of Man, located on the primary A5 road between Douglas and Castletown. It is locally believed to be inhabited by fairies or "Little People". A tradition has developed whereby travellers greet the fairies as they pass the bridge, typically by saying "Hello fairies" or a similar phrase, to ensure good luck. Failure to acknowledge the fairies is said to bring bad luck or misfortune.

The original bridge was a simple wooden structure over a small stream. The current, more substantial bridge is built of stone. The surrounding area, including trees and roadside walls, is often adorned with small gifts and messages left by visitors intended for the fairies.

The exact origins of the tradition are uncertain, but it is likely rooted in older Manx folklore and beliefs about the presence of supernatural beings in the landscape. The Fairy Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction and a significant part of the Isle of Man's cultural identity. The tradition continues to be widely observed, particularly by tourists, although adherence by locals varies. There are actually multiple "Fairy Bridges" or "Fairy Places" on the island, but this specific location is the most well-known and frequently visited.