Andrew Douglas visits the Isle of Man, where he discovers that motorbikes are only part of its attraction to tourists.

IF you think the Isle of Man is all about TT week, it is - but there's lots more besides. This years bikers' extravaganza was a major boost to the island's economy after the controversial cancellation of last year's racing over worries that foot-and-mouth could spread from the mainland.

However, the 2002 TT attracted a record 37,548 bike fans - who created a good-natured carnival atmosphere, especially in the capital of Douglas.

Tourist bosses are already bracing themselves for a bumper TT next year and are urging visitors to book accommodation, ferries and flights now to get the best deals.

The thrill of watching both F1 and sidecar outfits roaring around the stunning circuit, and sampling the great party atmosphere is something which shouldn't be missed.

To underline the thrill, this year's F1 winner, Yorkshireman David Jeffries aboard a 1000cc Suzuki, broke a host of records.

His 123.38 mph race average was the fastest around the 37.75 mile Mountain Circuit in TT history as well as clocking the first sub-18 minute lap.

The TT is also a truly international event, with bikers arriving in droves from Ireland, Italy and Germany as well as the UK during the last week in May and first in June. To underline its status with foreign bikers, two motorcycle policemen from Germany were even on hand to help out their Manx colleagues during the fortnight.

But the island has much more to offer. It has a host of natural attractions wrapped up in a landscape of wild moorland, rolling hills, uncrowded beaches and towering cliffs.

It also boasts a wealth of heritage, ranging from Castle Rushen in Castletown - which contains one of the best recreations of what life was like in medieval times I have seen - to Cragneash Village Folk Museum.

This authentic village of whitewashed cottages displays the life of 19th Century Manx crofters against a stunning coastal backdrop of Spanish Head and the Calf of Man.

It recently featured in the hit film Waking Ned. Film makers across the world have already been captivated by the island and for its ability to pass for a host of locations - including Dartmoor, Ireland and Scotland.

Other top attractions include the famous Laxey Wheel, the world's largest working waterwheel, the 'Story of Mann' (CRCT) at the Manx Museum, the Victorian Isle of Man Steam Railway and Peel Castle.

And no visit should be complete without a ride on the Snaefell Mountain Railway which takes you almost to the top of the 2,036ft Snaefell - where on a clear day you can see England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland.

However, the day I was there I was greeted by driving rain and thick mist - part of the island's character that, perhaps, should never be underestimated.

TRAVELFACTS

l The Isle of Man is in the middle of the Irish Sea, 83 miles from Liverpool and 90 miles from Belfast. It is 221 square miles - being 32.5 miles from north to south and 13.5 miles wide from east to west.

l The island enjoys 'British' weather, tempered by the effects of the Gulf Stream. Sea breezes keeps summer temperatures to an average mid-twenties centigrade.

l Ancient folklore says Irish giant Finn MacCuill threw a huge clod of earth at a rival. The clod fell into the Irish Sea and became the Isle of Man.

l The island's population was 76,535 in September - roughly half are Manx born and the rest largely British.

l New legislation has introduced 24-hour opening for pubs, bars and off-licences.

GETTING THERE

By ferry: Steam Packet Company with sailings from Heysham, Lancashire, and Liverpool. Reservations 08705 523 523 or www.steam-packet.com

By air: fly.be British European (from Newcastle) 0800 0837783 or www.flybe.com

Manx Airlines. Reservations 08457 256256 or www.manx-airlines.com

Other useful links: Tourist information (01642) 686766 or www.visitisleofman.com