Question: What makes a hairpin bend on a coastal road so infamous that it earns the name Devil’s Elbow?
Here we are at the Devil’s Elbow. This isn’t just any curve in the road. It is a notorious landmark on the Isle of Man. Specifically, it’s located on the primary A4 Peel to Kirk Michael coast road, within the parish of German. The Manx name for this place is Glion Cam, or Glen Cam, meaning the Winding Glen.
The A4 road snakes along the island’s west coast. The Devil’s Elbow hairpin turn intersects Glion Cam. This is a small, wooded glen and former quarry nestled between Lower Ballakaighen and Skerrisdale Moar. Adding to the area’s complexity, the old Peel to Ramsey line of the Manx Northern Railway runs parallel to the coast road here, stretching from Knocksharry to Glen Wyllin near Kirk Michael.
Look around, and you might notice Gob-y-Deigan, also known as the Donkey Bank. A railway embankment at Lady Port sits on the western edge of Glen Cam. It stands 70 ft high, formed from 50,000 cubic yards of material excavated during the creation of a nearby railway cutting.
But what truly cemented the Devil’s Elbow in history is its connection to early motorsport. The Devil’s Elbow was part of the Short Highland Course, a segment of the Peel Loop. This was used for Tourist Trophy car races between 1905 and 1907. Later, from 1907 to 1910, it became part of the 15-mile 1,470 yard St. John’s Short Course for motorcycle racing during the Isle of Man TT races. It was situated at the 9th milestone, 416 ft above sea level.
Imagine the scene. Cars and motorcycles roaring around this sharp bend. The crowds cheering. The stakes were high and a mistake could send drivers spiraling off course. The name Devil’s Elbow suddenly seems fitting.
So, as we stand here, consider the layers of history beneath our feet. From its geological features to its railway heritage and its thrilling racing past, the Devil’s Elbow is more than just a bend in the road. It’s a testament to the Isle of Man’s unique character and enduring spirit.