NW200 spectating

[G321]

I'm off to the NW200 in May and was after some advice on spectating and the general setup. We're staying in Portrush and looking at the circuit map the closest grandstand is Metropole, is this a decent spot to watch from? I'm not bothered about being on the start finish straight but want a decent view of the action. How easy is it to move around and spectate in other areas without having seats?

[srob]

We watched from the golf course just west of Portrush.

It was nice as it's on the outside of the circuit but you can walk about easily and can walk to the start/finish. It's also opposite the paddock. This was a few years ago though so access may have changed!

[Tam_Mullen]

Following this as I'm coming over for the week this year, first time I've been to any road racing.

[FlopperV60]

There are lots of great spectating points around the circuit, over my many visits I have taken different people with me and normally try and show them a mixture of spectating points.

Metropole grandstand is a good location, I will use it on Saturday this year, also the run out towards Colraine is great for seeing the bikes flat out, Station Corner, Black Bridge and the speed trap are breathtaking when spectating for the first time.

Also the braking into University corner can be interesting and the the following acceleration over the bridge towards Ballysally.

The marshalls are a little bit stricter now in some locations keeping the spectators back from the action, during the week I get out early to settle into points close to the circuit.

If you are riding a good tip is to stay inside the triangle during the road closures, this way you can move locations easiliy enough, I like to park at Black Bridge and see some of the fast stuff and then jump on the bike and head across to Mather's or back towards the coast.

Whatever you do you will enjoy the event, it is amazing and the people of NI are brilliant, if you have time in your schedule there are so many great rides and places to see.

[Se7enheaven]

I’m heading over again this year too. Last year was my first visit and I’ll be back as often as I can. Great atmosphere and brilliant racing.
I was just before magic roundabout on the Saturday last year and it was a great spot. The crowds on the Saturday were unbelievable last year. Absolutely heaving.

[Johno]

Only been once 15yrs ago and we watched from Magheraboy chicane, which has a hotel next to it which was fantastic for toilets and cups of tea - it was bitterly cold and blustery, but dry at least.

I look forward to going back.

[G321]

Thanks all for the replies. It's been on the list for a while now so looking forward to getting over there.
I think I'll book the Metropole seats so we're guaranteed somewhere to watch from, also going to get paddock tickets for the Thursday and Saturday.

[Fattyfat]

I was working inside the triangle last year and spent my day floating between Church, Magherabouy, Mathers, University, blackbridge and station. Great day and great crowds. Got a good tan too.

Get in early though if you are going anywhere near it. Bonkers traffic

[chris4652009]

Following with interest.

[G321]

Update. Metropole grandstand was sold out so got tickets at the juniper hill one instead. Tickets for both Thursday and Saturday, plus grandstand, paddock passes and programme for less than £70,bargain!