Newmarket is a historic market town in Suffolk, situated close to the Cambridgeshire border and widely regarded as the headquarters of British horse racing. Racing has been associated with the town since the seventeenth century, when King Charles II became a regular visitor and helped establish its royal connections. Today hundreds of racehorses are trained around Newmarket, and the sport remains central to the local economy and identity. The town also has a rich historic setting surrounded by the open landscapes of the Suffolk Brecks.
Newmarket: Historical sights and information
Facts about Newmarket
- Latitude:
- 52.244317
- Longitude:
- 0.405271
- GPS Coordinates:
- 52°15' N, 00°24' E
The historical and tourist importance of the town
Newmarket Racecourses hosts major flat-racing events throughout the year, including prestigious fixtures on the Rowley Mile and July Course. The National Horseracing Museum provides an extensive introduction to the history of racing, while Palace House explores the royal and equestrian heritage of the town. Visitors can also see the extensive training grounds and historic racing infrastructure surrounding the town. Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds, Ely and the landscapes of the West Suffolk countryside are all within convenient reach.
Food and when to visit
Newmarket has restaurants, cafés, traditional pubs, bakeries and independent shops, with a strong hospitality sector serving visitors attending racing events. British food, Suffolk produce and international cuisine are all available across the town. Spring through autumn is the most exciting period for racing enthusiasts because the main flat-racing season is underway, although the National Horseracing Museum can be visited year-round. Newmarket is a convenient stop between Cambridge and Suffolk and a natural destination for anyone interested in British racing.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Newmarket.