Racing enthusiasts gather here. The TT Grandstand is the heart of the Isle of Man TT motorbike races. It offers fans an unbeatable view of all the action.
The Grandstand’s history is quite interesting. The Auto Cycle Union was originally responsible for the TT Grandstand. Each year, they assembled it and dismantled it. By 1921, complaints arose about the cost of this process. Other issues emerged too. These included the need for a crane to lift motorbikes from ferry vessels, the abolition of road taxes, improvements to the course, and the ability to race on Sunday.
These issues led to disagreements. There was even talk of moving the TT to Belgium. After much debate, Douglas Town Council yielded. They listened to George Brown from the Isle of Man Weekly Times. He spoke on behalf of the Auto Cycle Union Committee. The needs would be met and Douglas Corporation built a new permanent TT Grandstand. The future of the TT on the island looked secured.
In 1960, the Douglas Council acquired 17 acres of land next to Glencrutchery Road. Repairs and improvements to the TT Grandstand were made over the years. In 1985, a piece of land was dedicated to the Isle of Man Tourist Board. This became the site for a new Grandstand. This is the TT Grandstand we use today.
The TT Grandstand is in Upper Douglas near Nobles Park on Glencrutchery Road. Getting here is relatively easy. You can travel to Douglas and then along the sea front. Turn onto Broadway and then at the road split take the right road called Ballaquayle Road. At the next main road, turn right onto Glencrutchery Road. This will shortly lead you to the Grandstand.
Many main bus routes serve Douglas. These include routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Most routes on the island lead to or from Douglas. From the promenade, follow the vehicle route or take a bus going to Willaston. Alternatively, take the Electric Railway trams heading to Douglas. Then walk along the Promenade or take a bus to Willaston. If you arrive by Steam Railway, take the train to Douglas. Then walk along the Promenade or take a bus to Willaston.
Tickets for the Grandstand can be bought at the TT Marshals Association Portacabin behind the Grandstand. Seats are easily reached from Nobles Park. Access is no problem for those wishing to come and go between races.
The views from the TT Grandstand are excellent. You can clearly see the start of the race. You can also see the pit stops just below the Grandstand seating. Running commentary is provided. The winners of races are presented at a podium in front of the Grandstand. Food and toilet facilities are conveniently located behind the Grandstand.
Originally, the startline for the 1911 TT races was on Quarterbridge Road. It was moved to Bray Hill in 1914. In 1920, it moved to Nobles Park. For the 1926 Isle of Man TT races, the startline section at Glencrutchery Road was improved. This included road widening and building a new grandstand complex. The 1920s wooden structure was eventually demolished. It was replaced with a modern brick design for the 1986 TT Races.
The TT Grandstand stands as a testament. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of the TT races. It is a place where memories are made.