THE COMPLETE BEGINNERS GUIDE TO THE TT
The Isle of Man TT isn’t just a race – it’s one of the most thrilling, dangerous, and iconic motorsport events in the world. Every year, riders from across the globe take on 37.73 miles of winding public roads at speeds that’ll make your jaw drop, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Isle of Man.
If you’re completely new to the TT, this guide is the perfect place to start. We’ll break down what makes it so unique, why riders (and fans) keep coming back, and what you need to know to truly appreciate it.
From record-breaking speeds to long-standing traditions, there's plenty to discover – whether you're planning a trip or just want to understand what all the fuss is about.
When did the Isle of Man TT begin?
The Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) first roared into life in 1907, born out of a loophole. At the time, racing on public roads was banned in mainland Britain – so organisers looked to the Isle of Man, which had its own laws and was more than happy to host. The original race was run on a shorter course, but by 1911, riders were battling it out on the now-famous 37.73-mile Mountain Course.
Since then, the TT has become a bucket-list event for riders and fans alike. It’s seen everything from groundbreaking bike tech to legendary racers who’ve become household names. But one thing’s remained constant: the challenge. The course is a brutal test of skill, speed, and nerve, with narrow roads, stone walls, sharp bends, and huge elevation changes.
Racing here isn’t just about trophies – it’s about tradition, bravery, and respect for the course. The Isle of Man’s unique landscape and local pride have helped shape the TT into something truly special: part race, part cultural phenomenon, and completely unlike anything else in motorsport.
Race categories
The Isle of Man TT isn’t just one big race – it’s a series of races split into different categories, each with its own rules, bike types, and rider requirements. You’ll hear names like Superbike, Supersport, Supertwin, and Sidecar, and while they might sound similar, they all represent different classes of machines and levels of performance.
Categories help keep things fair, safe, and competitive. For example, a Superbike race features high-performance, litre-class machines that are as close to full-blown racing bikes as you’ll get. Supersport races, on the other hand, use lighter 600cc bikes that favour agility over raw power.
Sidecar races are a fan favourite too – imagine racing at 100+ mph with a teammate hanging off the side of your bike to balance it.
These categories make the event more accessible to a wider range of riders and teams, and they give fans plenty to watch and root for. If you're curious about the nitty-gritty of each race, including engine specs and rules, the official TT Race Guide has you covered.
Getting tickets to the Isle of Man TT Races
Getting tickets to the Isle of Man TT is surprisingly straightforward – but planning ahead is key, especially if it’s your first time. The good news? You don’t need a ticket just to watch the races. Because the course uses public roads, you can find plenty of free vantage points all around the island. That said, there are also official grandstands and hospitality packages for those who want a bit more comfort (and a guaranteed view).
Tickets for grandstands and experiences usually go on sale several months in advance and can sell out quickly. If you're aiming for these, it’s best to book as early as possible. Same goes for ferries and accommodation, which get snapped up fast during race weeks.
For a smooth first trip, consider booking a travel package through an official TT travel partner – they’ll often bundle tickets, transport, and lodging. And keep an eye on the official TT website for announcements, ticket releases, and updates. A bit of planning goes a long way to making sure your first TT experience is unforgettable.
Understanding the course
The TT course – officially known as the Mountain Course – is, in no uncertain terms, a beast. It’s 37.73 miles long and winds through towns, countryside, and over the Snaefell Mountain, with more than 200 corners along the way. This isn’t a purpose-built racetrack – it’s made up of regular roads, complete with stone walls, lamp posts, and all the quirks of a public route. That’s part of what makes it so thrilling – and so dangerous.
Riders complete multiple laps depending on the race, with each lap taking around 17 minutes for the fastest competitors. That might not sound long, until you realise they’re averaging speeds of over 130mph through villages. Yes, really.
Landmarks like Bray Hill, Ballaugh Bridge, and the Gooseneck are famous among fans for their difficulty and spectacle. Each section of the course has its own character – and many have been etched into TT legend thanks to dramatic moments and iconic performances.
We cover more about lap times and top speeds in this fastest lap guide and this speeds one, but for now, just know this: mastering the Mountain Course is the ultimate test of a rider’s skill, bravery, and endurance.
Notable riders
Even if you’re new to the TT, there are a few names that will keep popping up – and for good reason. One of the biggest legends is John McGuinness. Nicknamed the “Morecambe Missile”, he’s a fan favourite and a master of the TT course, with 23 wins to his name – the third-highest in the event’s history.
With 26 TT wins, Joey Dunlop’s legacy is woven into the fabric of the event. He was known not just for his incredible talent, but also for his humility and dedication to the sport.
Modern fans should also look out for Peter Hickman, who currently holds the record for the fastest lap – clocking an average speed of over 136mph. His performances in recent years have been nothing short of jaw-dropping.
Then there’s Michael Dunlop – Joey’s nephew – known for his fiery personality and blistering speed. He became the outright record holder at TT 2024, racking up a staggering 29 wins and securing his place as the undisputed GOAT of the TT. The big question now is how high that number will climb – and whether anyone will ever catch him.
You can learn more about each of them in the rider guide, but as a beginner, these are the names to start with – they’ve helped shape the TT into the legend it is today.
How to get to the Isle of Man
The Isle of Man is accessible by sea or air – and if you’re heading there for the TT, you’ll want to plan well in advance. The easiest way to get there depends on where you’re travelling from. Ferries run from the UK and Ireland (Liverpool, Heysham, Belfast, and Dublin) and allow you to bring your car, bike, or even campervan – ideal if you’re planning to explore the island.
There are also regular flights from several UK airports, including London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Birmingham, landing at Ronaldsway Airport, near Castletown, towards the south of the Island, just 15 minutes from the startline.
TT race weeks are the busiest time of year on the island, so travel tends to book up fast. It’s wise to secure your travel and accommodation as early as possible – ideally 9 – 12 months ahead if you want the best options and prices. Ferry tickets go on sale a week or so before this year's event.
For full travel details, head over to the official visit page – but don’t leave it to the last minute.
Accommodation options during the Isle of Man TT Races
Accommodation during the Isle of Man TT can range from luxury hotels and cosy B&Bs to self-catering cottages, Homestay, campsites, and even pop-up glamping villages – there’s something for every style and budget.
But with tens of thousands of visitors flocking to the island each year, the best spots go fast.
If you’re planning to visit for the TT, it’s smart to book your accommodation at least 9 – 12 months in advance. Seriously – things can get snapped up a year ahead, especially in hotspots like Douglas, Ramsey, or anywhere near the course.
Most visitors stay for about a week to catch multiple races and soak up the atmosphere, but longer stays are popular too if you want to explore beyond race day. As well as short stays like long-weekends or day trips to maximise your annual leave!
Also worth noting: it’s not just beds that get booked out. Restaurants, tours, and other activities can get busy during TT fortnight, so it’s a good idea to make reservations where you can – especially for evening meals or special events.
You can check out more options and info in our dedicated travel and accommodation section, but the golden rule? The earlier you plan, the smoother (and less stressful) your TT experience will be.
And if all that’s not enough
Whether you’re a motorsport fan or just curious about what makes the Isle of Man TT so legendary, there’s no shortage of history, excitement, and jaw-dropping moments to discover.
From understanding the course to knowing which riders to watch and how to plan your trip, we’ve just scratched the surface.
For more in-depth info – including travel tips, detailed race guides, rider profiles, and everything else you’ll need to plan your first visit – head over to iomttraces.com/visit and iomttraces.com/racing/race-guide. Whether you’re booking tickets, picking your perfect viewing spot, or just want to sound like you know your stuff at the pub, it’s the best place to dive deeper into all things TT.
