The Best Kept Secret of the TT – Why Book Qualifying Week for 2026
If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to book your Isle of Man TT, the wait is over. Qualifying Week 2026 is calling, and while many fans fixate on the final race days, those in the know are already securing their spots for the opening week.
At the Duke TT Village, we still have availability for the following dates in 2026:
May: 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th, 31st
June: 1st
With this wide window of availability, you can catch the end of the Southern 100 pre-TT races (May 22–24) and the entirety of Qualifying Week, right into the massive opening weekend of Race Week.
Why Qualifying Week is the Best Kept Secret
Qualifying Week (May 25th – May 29th) isn’t just a “warm-up”—it’s arguably the most authentic way to see the TT. Here’s why the “vibe” during this week is unbeatable:
The Full Grid: In qualifying, every class runs. You’ll see the Superbikes, Sidecars, Supersports, and the new Sportbike class all on the same day.
Daytime & Evening Action: For 2026, the schedule has been refined to include more afternoon sessions, meaning you get the legendary “Golden Hour” light for photos without staying out too late into the night.
Rest Day Freedom (Thursday, May 28th): For the first time, Qualifying Week features a scheduled rest day on Thursday. This is the perfect day to explore the Island’s hidden glens, visit the Motor Museum in Jurby, or ride the 37.73-mile course yourself while the roads are fully open.
The Paddock Buzz: The energy in the Paddock is infectious as teams tweak setups. Since the crowds are slightly smaller than the final Friday, you’ll find it much easier to meet the riders and see the bikes up close.
Your Home at the Heart: Duke TT Village
Located just a short walk from the TT Grandstand and the Nobles Park Paddock, the Duke TT Village takes the stress out of your stay. No tents, no damp gear—just a clean, dry, and comfortable en-suite cabin.
En-suite Comfort: Every cabin features its own shower and toilet.
Twin Beds: Real beds with fresh linen—essential for a good night’s sleep after a day at the hedges.
Breakfast Included: Start every morning with a hot breakfast in our communal marquee, the perfect place to swap stories with fellow fans.
Ready to join us? Book your 2026 stay at www.dukebookings.com.
Getting to the Isle of Man: Your Travel Guide
Planning your travel is the next step. As a guest, you have two main ways to reach the Isle of Man:
🛳 By Sea: The Isle of Man Steam Packet
The ferry is the heartbeat of the TT. Whether you’re coming from Heysham, Liverpool, Belfast, or Dublin, the journey is an experience in itself.
The Deposit System: Booking usually involves a non-refundable deposit (approx. £45–£90) to hold your space. You’ll be notified of the final balance in early 2026.
Vehicle Advantage: If you want to bring your own bike to ride the mountain, the ferry is your only option. Qualifying Week typically has better vehicle availability than the “peak” Race Week sailings.
✈ By Air: Fast & Direct
Flying into Ronaldsway Airport (IOM) is the quickest way to get trackside.
Airlines: Look for flights via easyJet, Loganair, and Aer Lingus.
Hubs: Direct routes run from London (Gatwick, Heathrow, City), Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Belfast, and Dublin.
Pro Tip: If you book your stay for the start of the period (around May 22nd–24th), flights are often significantly cheaper than arriving on the Friday before Race Week.
Secure Your 2026 Isle of Man TT
The 2026 Isle of Man TT will be a historic one, with the introduction of the new Sportbike class and an enhanced schedule. Don’t wait until the “Full” signs go up—grab your cabin at the Duke TT Village now and experience the raw power of Qualifying Week.
Would you like me to create a custom itinerary for those available dates so you can see exactly which races and qualifying sessions you’ll catch?
