Author: Bike Social Posted: 11 May 2015
With less than three weeks to go until this year’s Isle of Man TT kicks off, many would consider it way too late to book a week off work and head over for the action.
A lot of the island’s accommodation and places on the iconic Steampacket ferries fill up when booking opens a year in advance, but it’s not too late to book a last minute trip and given the notice, the prices aren’t too shabby either.
Ok, so booking a hotel at this late notice is pretty much a no go. There are a couple of last-minute cancellations floating around but with costs up to £400 per night, it’s not the most cost effective. If paying through the nose doesn’t turn you off, check out the listings here.
However, if you’re willing to slum it in a tent or stay in someone’s house – you could be looking at as little as £20 per night accommodation. Budget around £200 for travel, whether it be flights or a foot passenger spot on the ferry and then all you’ll need on top is expenses. We’ve taken a look at some of the best last minute deals so you don’t have to…
You’ll need to be fairly flexible, especially if you’re thinking about heading over during race week as options are relatively limited, but it’s still do-able!
Homestay – from £20 per night
A large number of the Isle of Man’s kind souls offer up their spare rooms for TT goers during the festival at ridiculously affordable rates. Some offer breakfast, some don’t. Some will offer to cook all your meals and treat you like their only child. A full list of properties can be found here. It might not be 100% up to date, so you might need to contact a few properties before you find an available option.
Metzeler Village – Douglas - £20 per night
If you don’t mind camping, there isn’t much better value than the Metzeler Village which is available for £20 per night, or even £12 if you arrive on a bike with Metzeler tyres. Located in Douglas, the site is ideally situated and even offers the opportunity to meet the Metzeler backed riders including Gary Johnson.
Pre-Erected Tent – Kirk Michael – 8 – 13 June (Race Week) - £250
This makes life very easy. Simply rock up to this trackside campsite at Kirk Michael and you’ll find your tent just meters away from the circuit. Each tent sleeps two people and comes with a sleeping mat, camping chairs, table and a light. You can also add extra nights.
Camping – Own Tent & Bike – Including Ferry - £299
With very few ferry spots available, this is a cracking deal for a 4-night trip to the TT including two practice and two race days, plus Mad Sunday. The only downside is that this covers just one person.
Glamping – Colby - £578 for 4 nights
If you’d like to stay in style, there are still Glamping places for both race and practice week. At £578 per couple, it’s a little bit pricey for a fancy tent but it is better than slumming it completely.
‘Snoozy’ – Douglas - from £118 per night
Snoozy sleeping pods sleep up to two people and come with double and twin bed layouts, including bed linen, towels and a socket to charge your phone. They include bed and breakfast after your night sleeping in a real bed! These pods come with what is called an AirCell, which is inflated making the structure solid so it doesn’t feel like you’re in a tent. There are still options available for both practice and race week. 
While you might be able to get a spot on a ferry on foot, at this stage you’re probably better off flying. It’s reasonably cheap, with prices at the moment starting from £150 return as listed on SkyScanner.
Cheapest return flights, departing on Saturday 6th and returning Friday 12th (race week) at the moment are:
Blackpool – IOM (Citywing) - £150
Liverpool – IOM (Flybe) - £152
London – IOM - £154
Belfast – IOM - £189
Manchester – IOM - £205
Ronaldsway Airport is on the south of the island, but is easily accessible throughout the festival by taxi or other public transport.
Transport
You will find it almost impossible to get a vehicle over to the Island at this stage, so getting around while you’re there can be a task. Public transport is relatively good and the taxis aren’t too pricey either. The one thing to bear in mind is road closing times, as it can be a pain to get around such a small island when 40 miles of the roads are closed. More information about getting around during the TT can be found here.
Food
With 40,000 tourists flocking to the island, restaurants can get pretty busy fairly soon. Booking in advance will certainly help your chances, especially in popular areas such as Douglas. If you think you’ll just be able to turn up and eat on the night, you might be able to find a kebab shop…
What are you waiting for? Book your last minute trip to the TT now!
