It’s a big weekend with the QIPCO Guineas Festival at Newmarket ’s Rowley Mile Racecourse marking the start of the Classics for this season.  For visitors to the town, there’s been planning of race day outfits and gathering groups of friends for a fantastic day out. Some may have even decided to make a full weekend of it and booked themselves in somewhere. Visiting Newmarket? We’ve put together a guide on some places to go before heading to the course and enjoying all the excitement to make it a memorable weekend! 

Brilliant Breakfasts

The Tack Room

On a sunny day, the terrace overlooking the King’s yard is a fantastic place to sit and enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Tack Room. Situated at Palace House, the Tack Room serves fantastic coffee and an excellent breakfast with favourites like a Full English or full vegetarian breakfast, maple cured bacon sandwich or if you are trying to  keep it healthy then their homemade granola or fresh fruit salad are the go to options.  The setting is also a fantastic excuse to pop open the bubbly and enjoy a Buck’s Fizz or you can make it a  mimosa. 

Breakfast is served from 8am to 11.30am daily and to book your tables on race day then call 01638 666 390 or email thetackroom@absolutetaste.com

While you’re there, why not take a advantage of the Buy One Get One Free offer on daily admission tickets to Palace House and take a look around before heading off to the races. Find out more here

The Pantry

Situated at The Guineas Shopping Centres, The Pantry is one of the town’s gems when it comes to all-day dining. The Pantry is a fantastic venue for  the coffee fiends and is a firm favourite for lover’s of the independent eateries. The Pantry are big supporters of local producers and this is reflected in their menu. No breakfast in town is complete without a Newmarket sausage and The Pantry’s sausage sandwich is a firm favourite. Or you could go for their Suffolk Bacon sandwich.

They’re also big on providing vegetarian and vegan options and their crushed avocado and grilled tomatoes on toasted ciabatta with sriracha is always a winner or you could go for the vegetarian breakfast. If you’re a big fan of tea then the variety of loose leaf options on offer will be to your taste as you relax before an exciting day at the racecourse. To book a table call 01638 661181.

Cortado Espresso Bar

This is one of the new gems in town and can be found not far from the famous Clock Tower at the top of the High Street. The smell of good coffee should guide you but if not then pop down Exeter Road and you will find this fantastic breakfast spot.  The decor inside includes the work by renowned artist Jacqui Jones and photographer Jane Odell. Don’t be shy to ask about purchasing anything you see on the walls. As far as the selection on offer, the eggs Benedict is really popular as is  the variety of sandwiches. Top tip, go for the smashed avocado on sourdough and add the smoked salmon.

As for the coffee, a flat white or cappuccino would go a long way to fuelling up what will likely be a very busy day. For more info on Cortado Espresso Bar then click here.

Last minute shopping?

Need to grab some last minute bits to complete that race day outfit or maybe need to restock on things to stay fresh throughout the day then a quick dash to The Guineas shopping Centre or along the High Street and you will be sorted. From there it’s a short taxi ride or you could get on the free shuttle bus between the racecourse and the High Street and make your way to the Rowley Mile.

Stay for Dinner

There are some fantastic dining options in and around Newmarket, here are a few worth making a reservation

Squires

The 2AA rosette, Squires Restaurant at the Bedford Lodge Hotel and Spa is a must when visiting town. The name ‘Squires’ is steeped in history in that Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa in Suffolk was once owned by a Squire, George Baird aka ‘The Squire’, a notorious gentlemen rider and trainer. Another establishment that prides itself on sourcing only the freshest, quality local produce you are always assured of a  fantastic dining experience at Squires and it is well worth making a reservation for. In fact, booking, especially on a racing weekend is advisable. Call  01638 663175 to reserve your tables.

The King’s Head 

A short taxi ride from the racecourse, lies The King’s Head in Dullingham and their evening menu is worth taking the time to enjoy as your evening in one of the idyllic villages neighbouring Newmarket. Their wine list is not to be scoffed at and you will uncork some gems in the evening. As for the food, this is another establishment that is really popular among visitors so be sure to book in advance by ringing 01638 507702.

Berties at the Heath Court Hotel

An ideal location to begin the evening from. Travel back into town and enjoy an excellent meal at the Heath Court Hotel, enjoying good times with your friends and reliving the memories of a fantastic day out.  The restaurant and lounge areas offer a relaxed dining experience, in comfortable surroundings where everyone is given a warm welcome. Their wine list is also well worth taking a look at.

Pre-Dinner Drinks

The Roxana Bar

Sophisticated and stylish are two of the best ways to describe the Roxana Bar which can be found inside the plush surroundings of the Bedford Lodge Hotel and Spa. Enjoy a selection of nibbles as your evening gets started or unwind here at the end of the day with glass of something in hand and enjoy the atmosphere. This is also a great place for a nightcap after dining at Squires.

Kings

Fancy a cocktail? Then you’re best to head over to Kings and enjoy something ice cold inside the remnants of what was once a royal palace! The venue itself dates back to the 17th century but has been refurbished and now boasts a contemporary lounge and bar area.

The life of the party! 

If you’re still feeling festive after the racing action, or perhaps you’ve had a winning afternoon and need a reason to celebrate, then head up the High Street and you’re bound to find the right party. The White Hart  is really popular on Saturday and Sunday nights, especially over Guineas Weekend and with the Bank Holiday while the likes of The Gallery and Unique will also have you dancing the night away and having a good time.

Staying Over?

If you’re still trying to find somewhere to spend the night then head to our Stay page which has some fantastic options in and around Newmarket. The best part about staying in town on the night of the 2,000 Guineas is that you get to wake up and do it all again for the 1,000 Guineas the following day. 

Still need your race day tickets? Be sure to head to the Newmarket Racecourse website by clicking here to take a look at the tickets on offer. Keen to do a Race Day Tour? To find out what you can expect from this brilliant behind-the-scenes experience then click here.