A Stay Like No Other: Discovering the Witches Mill with West Res
Not all holiday properties are created equal. Some offer comfort. Others deliver character. But now and then, you come across a place that offers something more — a sense of story.
Just outside Castletown, nestled in the rolling southern hills of the Isle of Man, sits The Witches Mill: a converted windmill with a unique past and a remarkable present. Once a gathering point for modern Wicca and now one of the most highly rated Airbnb properties in the region, this four-storey landmark has become one of the Island’s most distinctive places to stay.
A Place with a Past
In the 1950s and 60s, The Witches Mill became a quiet epicentre for something quite extraordinary. It was here that Gerald Gardner, often credited as the founder of modern Wicca, lived and worked.
Gardner was a key figure in the revival of pagan and pre-Christian spiritual traditions in the UK. What began as a personal spiritual practice soon developed into a broader movement, blending folk traditions, ritual magic, nature worship, and elements of ceremonial practice. His work at the mill helped shape Wicca into what is now one of the most recognised forms of modern paganism worldwide.
It was in this space that Gardner hosted coven meetings, wrote extensively on witchcraft, and curated the “Witch’s Cottage” museum — which once stood on the site as a public-facing introduction to his beliefs.
The Isle of Man became a place of pilgrimage for many drawn to his ideas, and the mill itself gained symbolic status as a sacred and historic location within the Wiccan community.
Though the original museum is no longer there, the site retains a strong sense of identity. Today, the building is a peaceful and welcoming holiday property — but its roots in a unique cultural and spiritual history still echo through its stone walls.
Staying at the Witches Mill
The property spans four levels, each with something different to offer. The ground floor features two spacious en-suite bedrooms, while the first mezzanine houses a well-equipped kitchen-diner and secondary entrance.
Upstairs, the design becomes even more distinctive. A children’s floor includes a handcrafted bunk-bed fairy tale tree and a room with a bed made from raw oak trunks. Details like built-in Bluetooth speakers and themed lighting add playful touches, perfect for families with young travellers.
The second floor opens into a panoramic lounge, complete with a small balcony, large windows, and a ceiling that features the original mill hoist — cleverly repurposed as a lighting feature.
Further up, a hobby room and rooftop conservatory provide 360° views across the Island’s southern landscape. It’s a rare chance to enjoy light, sky, and space in every direction — whether you’re reading a book, playing games with family, or simply watching the stars.
A Host Who Knows the Island
What truly elevates the experience at The Witches Mill is the care and passion behind it — and much of that comes from Tim, the property’s owner and steward of its story.
Since moving to the Isle of Man, Tim has developed a deep admiration for the Isle of Man’s unique landscapes, heritage, and pace of life. His enthusiasm for the Island is evident in everything from the thoughtful restoration of the property to the way he supports guests during their stay.
Though not on site, Tim ensures that every guest is well taken care of. He’s known for offering a seamless arrival experience and sharing practical local knowledge, from the best walking routes to the best places to eat (using Dazzler of course).
He’s also spent a lot of time researching the property’s past, particularly its ties to Gerald Gardner and the early Wiccan movement. That personal interest adds a sense of depth and context to the stay, making it more than just a holiday rental — it's a window into one of the Island’s many curious and compelling stories.
Part of the West Res Collection
The Witches Mill is part of the growing West Res portfolio: a Manx-based hospitality group focused on unique, high-quality stays across the Island. Their approach centres on character, comfort, and meaningful guest experiences — whether it’s a coastal cottage or a landmark property like this.
If you're looking for something beyond the standard getaway, this is a chance to stay somewhere that is truly unique.
Giveaway Now Live
We’re giving one lucky follower the chance to win a 3-night stay at the Witches Mill. The giveaway is now live — head over to our Facebook to enter, and keep an eye on our socials for more exciting collaborations to come.