The excitement’s mounting at Newmarket, which has set a thrilling pace for the 2024 racing season. As spring advances into summer, there’s so much to look forward to – the QIPCO Guineas Festival and The Spring Meeting at the Rowley Mile and The July Festival and Summer Saturdays at the July Racecourse. But the fun isn’t confined to what’s happening on the turf, there’s plenty more to do in this historic town, as well as great places to eat, drink and stay the night. Read on and you’ll be champing at the bit to come and visit the home of horseracing.

What to do and see

Join a tour with Discover Newmarket’s entertaining and knowledgeable guides. Ever wondered what it’s like in the Royal Box or wanted to see inside the weighing room? Come with us as we take you behind the scenes of the Rowley Mile and July Racecourse and visit areas usually out of bounds to the public.

We’ll also take you to meet legendary trainers at their yards (some with royal connections), to watch champion thoroughbreds exercising on the famous Gallops, and to meet legendary stallions and mares with their foals at The National Stud. We’ve even reserved a ringside seat for you at Tattersalls’ auction house to witness the bidders in fierce competition for the next generation of equine stars.

Fancy going at your own pace now? Pop in to the National Horseracing Museum to admire masterpieces by the likes of George Stubbs  and Sir Alfred Munnings at the Packard Galleries of Sporting Art, brownse fascinating exhibits about the racing world. and get a taste of the action galloping along on the racehorse simulator.  You can even meet the horses cared for here and learn about their retraining programme as they retire from racing and prepare for new careers. Just make sure you allow enough time to explore this 5-acre site.

Keep an eye on the diary for special events, too. From the renowned Newmarket Music Nights at the July Racecourse to a performance by the Household Cavalry Band and a Classic Car Show at the National Horseracing Museum. Newmarket has a wide range of superb events that you won’t want to miss. And if you’ve still got some energy, indulge in a spot of shopping along our historic high street and in The Guineas Shopping Centre. Or if you visit on a Tuesday or Saturday you can check out our market, too.

Where to eat and drink

You won’t be able to resist temptation at Victor Victoria Cafe, which serves up moreish cakes and delicious coffee or try New Moulton Stores which is fast becoming the must go to place for indulgent treats. But be sure to make room for one of the delicious sharing boards at The Graze Kitchen or The Pantry, or perhaps some bao buns at The Tack Room. And don’t forget afternoon tea at Nancy’s Vintage Teashop or the Jockey Club Rooms.

There’s a world of flavours here, including traditional dishes from northern India at Montaz to the elegant surroundings of Squires Restaurant, Bedford Lodge Hotel’s 2 AA Rosette dining room providing the perfect setting for a special occasion. We’ve great pubs, too, just outside town, The Three Blackbirds and The Packhorse Inn – look out for beer by local brewers Greene King and Adnams and cider by Aspall.

Where to stay the night

And so to bed. You’ll find a cosy room whatever your budget. Good value is matched by excellent service (and great breakfasts featuring Newmarket Sausages, by royal appointment) at Heath Court Hotel. Stay in traditional style at The Jockey Club Rooms – you’ll be in fine company; these historic lodgings have been favoured by royalty and the rich for centuries. And you’ll be sure of a pampering at the Bedford Lodge Hotel, with its top-class spa. Or for a luxury holiday self-catering experience, check into either the  Quay’s Lodge or Bachelors Lodge  which both provide the perfect base for a trip to the races as well as for exploring the area.