WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE BOOKING YOUR FIRST TT TRIP

Planning your first trip to the Isle of Man TT races can feel overwhelming. With so much to see, experience, and organise, it's hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve broken it down into three main steps to help you get started on booking your TT adventure.

Our most frequently asked question is "when should I visit?"

1. WHEN TO VISIT THE TT

Qualifying Week vs. Race Week

One of the most common questions we hear is, “What dates should I visit?” While the obvious answer might seem like, “Arrive before the first day and leave after the last,” there are a few factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you decide:

Who or what do you want to see?

If you’re following a specific rider or class of bike, plan your trip around their events. For example, if you’re a huge Davey Todd fan or love Superbikes, consider visiting over Superbike Sunday.
If variety is your thing, Qualifying Week might be better suited since all the bikes take to the course.

Do you want to explore beyond the TT?

Many visitors add a traditional holiday before or after the races to enjoy the Isle of Man’s other attractions. If that sounds appealing, consider arriving early or staying a few days after the TT ends to make the most of your visit. John McGuinness does this too!

Make the most of Bank Holidays

Plan your trip around public holidays to maximise your time off work and enjoy an extra day on the hedges! With qualifying taking place in the evening, you can enjoy a full day of Monday bank holiday action, then visit one of many cafes with free WiFi to do some work during the day for the rest of the week, to maximise time on the Island and minimise annual leave days!

Check the schedule here!

The biggest benefit to travelling by ferry has to be bringing your bike!

2. HOW TO GET TO THE TT

Ferry vs Flying

Despite being an island, getting to the Isle of Man is straightforward. The choice between taking a ferry or flying depends on your priorities. Here’s a breakdown:

Pros of Taking the Ferry

BYOB (Bring your own bike): Whether it’s your bike, car, or extra luggage, the Steam-Packet ferries allow you to travel with minimal restrictions.
Comfortable journey: Relax in spacious seating with a drink and a meal.
Shared excitement: The ferry is a buzzing hub of TT fans, making it the perfect place to share your excitement with like-minded enthusiasts. Riders also travel by ferry, so you never know who you might bump into!

Pros of Flying

More travel options: Especially for international visitors, flying into a UK airport for a connecting flight may be more convenient than travelling to a ferry terminal.
Quicker travel time: Flights to the Isle of Man from the UK are typically under 90 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the action.
Potentially cheaper: With a bit of planning, flights can be a cost-effective option.
No rough seas: Avoid the potential unpredictability of the Irish Sea!

Glamping is one of the more favoured options amongst TT fans, balancing cost and comfort!

3. WHERE TO STAY AT THE TT

Hotel vs. Homestay vs. Camping

Accommodation during TT is as varied as the event itself. From luxurious hotels to charming homestays and vibrant campsites, there’s something for every budget and preference.

Hotels

Cost: Typically the most expensive option.
Comfort: High comfort levels, with options ranging from 4-star golf resorts with spas to cozy guesthouse B&Bs.
Convenience: While some hotels are close to the course, many are a little further away, so plan accordingly.

Tip: Hotels book up fast, but our travel partners often have exclusive deals, so check them out early.

Homestay

A scheme where locals rent out rooms or entire homes to visitors, Homestay is regulated and a great way to experience local hospitality.

Cost: More affordable than hotels.
Comfort: Enjoy home-like comfort, often with meals included.
Convenience: Many homestays are close to the course, making them a practical choice, not to mention you get a local for tips and often friends and a place to stay for life!

Camping

The classic TT option, whether it's glamping, pre-erected tents, or bringing your own equipment, there's an abundance of options available.

Cost: The most budget-friendly option.
Comfort: From basic tent setups to glamping pods and pop-up hotels, there’s a camping style to suit everyone.
Convenience: Many campsites are located on or near the course, putting you right in the heart of the action.

Tip: Duke’s TT Village packs up after TT and heads straight to Glastonbury - from the pinnacle of motorsport to the pinnacle of British music festivals!