A DAY AT THE RACES IN NEWMARKET

As the home of horseracing, Newmarket in Suffolk attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to hear the thunderous sound of hooves pummelling the turf at Newmarket Racecourses. It’s an experience that every visitor to Suffolk should have at least once, so what are the important things to remember so that your day at the races goes off without a hitch?

There are countless hotels in and around Newmarket, but for a truly authentic experience we recommend booking a stay in the Jockey Club Rooms, a luxurious private members’ club and the beating heart of the horseracing world for the last 250 years. Alternatively, you could sit back and relax at The Bedford Lodge Hotel, a former Georgian hunting lodge now providing 4-star luxury with a generous helping of charm, not to mention a multi-million pound spa – perfect for relaxing after a hard day’s cheering.

If you want to beat the bookies, you might need more than just good luck. Get to grips with the major players and minor details of horseracing with a trip to one of Newmarket’s 52 world-class stud farms. If you’re not sure where to start, why not let Discover Newmarket lead the way? This fantastic tour company offers full-day behind the scenes tours of horseracing’s most important places, at very reasonable prices. Another great way to get your head in the game is to immerse yourself in Newmarket’s 350-year horseracing history at the National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and British Sporting Art. While you may not leave furnished with a hot tip (though who knows), you’ll certainly leave feeling inspired.

Whether you pick a winner or are left with a handful of nothing, no day at the races is complete without a delicious meal to round off the day. Boasting several traditional pubs (often full of interesting characters from the horseracing world), and some good restaurants, Newmarket won’t leave you wanting. To celebrate in style, we recommend dining at the ultra-chic Paddocks House, where you can sip cocktails in The Brigadier Bar and even enjoy a private dinner in one of the hotel’s secret rooms. A little further afield in Tuddenham is Tuddenham Mill, a boutique hotel boasting the Best Restaurant in Suffolk, according to the 2016 Suffolk Food & Drink Awards.

If you’re feeling primed and prepped for your day at the races, get in touch and tell us about your plans via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.