With a history of over 350 years, and playing host to the first ever horserace under written rules, the Newmarket Gallops sit at the very heart of horseracing. Spanning 2,500 acres, they comprise 50 miles of turf gallops, 14 miles of artificial tracks, and are used by over 2,000 horses and 80 trainers every day.
In fact, the Gallops are so important to the ‘Sport of Kings’ that there are large areas that have remained as turf since 1660 and the reign of King Charles II.
This long-enduring survival has encountered, and overcome some challenging threats throughout its history, not least the ravaging spread of agriculture and two World Wars. They even prevailed in the face of the relentless advance of the modern transport system, with the railway line having to tunnel beneath them.
Members of the public are not allowed on the gallops while horses are training, however, by booking on to a Discover Newmarket tour, you can gain exclusive access and learn more about their history and modern day function.
Click here to find out more.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day (8th March 2025), we’re taking the opportunity to look back at a definitive time in history when Ellen Chaloner, a trailblazing trainer became the first woman to be given a permit to train horses by the Jockey Club in 1886.
Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to slow down, spend quality time together and show Mum just how much she means to you.
The National Stud has announced that the first mares covered by Diego Velazquez have been scanned in foal.
The tourism body Discover Newmarket has unveiled the first of its 2026 series of ‘Morning With’ trainer tours – which provide exclusive behind-the scenes access to the world of horseracing.
Greater Anglia and the Ipswich to Cambridge Community Rail Partnership (CRP) are launching a competition to find a promotional name for the Ipswich to Cambridge line.
Valentine’s Day is all about spending time with the certain someone you care most about, and showing that appreciation of love… along with maybe a glass of bubbles or two!
Camilla Perrett has been appointed as the new Chair of Discover Newmarket, the not-for-profit organisation at the heart of British horseracing.
Discover Newmarket is backing the bid to secure UK Town of Culture status for Newmarket, marking an exciting opportunity to celebrate the town’s rich heritage, culture and history while inspiring new cultural projects for the future.
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