North West 200: vantage points, road closures, weather and more
Road racing fans are gearing up for a huge week on the Triangle Circuit
Last updated 15th May 2018
Every May the stunning Causeway Coast plays host to one of sport’s most spectacular events.
The North West 200 attracts the finest line-up of road racers of any race on the planet, drawing thousands of visitors to the superfast 8.9 mile circuit that links the towns of Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine.
Hitting top speeds of over 200mph, racers like Guy Martin, Michael Dunlop and John McGuiness thrill 85,000 fans who come to enjoy the week long festival of speed.
Circuit Map & Vantage Points
There are a total of 15 vantage points to get the best view of the action. Each is close to refreshments and toilet facilities.
NW200 Getting There and Parking Information
Motorists attending the practice sessions and race events are urged to arrive in good time and expect delays. This year's event is expected to attract record crowds.
Official car parks are located beside the competitors paddock on the golf course and beside the Inn on the coast.
Disabled parking is available on a first come basis.
Cars - £10 per day, Bikes - £5 per day
Car parks are strictly for the use of cars and bikes only.
Racegoers are encouraged to avail of public transport to avoid traffic congestion.
Full details of the North West 200 timetable are available online at www.translink.co.uk/nw200 or passengers can call Translink on 028 9066 6630.
When are the main races happening?
There are eight races over four classes – Superstock, Superbike, Supertwin and Supersport.
Tuesday and Thursday morning's practice begins from 9.15am to 3.00pm with three races on Thursday, 5.00pm – 9.30pm and five races on Saturday 9.15am – 9.00pm.
Download the North West 200 free app – keep up to date with the latest news and results.
Main talking points of this year's races
The 2018 North West 200 looks set for a rematch of last year’s epic battle between Glenn Irwin and Alastair Seeley in the feature superbike race.
Michael Dunlop will be determined to tear up the Irwin/Seeley script.
Three-time winner Ian Hutchinson makes his return to road racing after breaking his leg in a Senior TT crash last June.
Also on this year's line-up is Peter Hickman, Michael Rutter, Lee Johnston, Dean Harrison and many more.
Triple World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea will take to the grid to ride a parade lap on Saturday.
What's the weather going to be like?
Light rain/drizzle is expected for the first practice sessions on Tuesday afternoon. However, it's shaping up to be a fantastic week staying mainly dry and bright, feeling warm too.
Making the most out of the weekend
The North west 200 is set against the stunning backdrop of the Causeway Coast where there is something for everyone to do including the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-rede- Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle. Add to this the many set locations where the Game of Thrones series is filmed and the miles of beautiful beaches there is plenty to enjoy.
