Home to not one, but two world-class tracks, Newmarket Racecourse is built on the biggest plot of cultivated heathland in the world. Its story began in 1622 when the Marquess of Buckingham and Lord Salisbury challenged each other to a race on its grounds, for the grand prize of £100 – quite the bet at the time! Roll on 14 years, Newmarket Racecourse officially opened. In 1665, Charles II was so fond of the course that he introduced the Newmarket Town Plate, a historic race that runs to this day. From the 2,000 Guineas, a one-mile spring sprint, to The Cesarewitch, an enduring two miler in autumn, Newmarket’s action-packed schedule never fails to pull in the huge crowds. Famously known as ‘Headquarters’ in the racing world, book in with Premier Inn to sign up for a memorable racing experience from start to finish.
Newmarket Races
Places to stay
Looking for hotels close to Newmarket Racecourse?
At only a 10-minute car ride away, our Premier Inn Newmarket hotel is always a winner – which also has Premier Plus rooms, if you fancy treating yourself to a little extra (like more creature comforts and enhanced connectivity).
Relax with breakfast, dinner and drinks after the horse racing
When you just want a relaxing meal on arrival at one of our hotels, or want to avoid jumping in the car to find breakfast the next morning, we’ve got you. We have a restaurant on site or just next door to most of our hotel locations, serving up a range of tasty options. From unlimited breakfast (with free brekkie for up to two kids with every paying adult), to creative dining menus, experience food journeys in true Premier Inn style.
By your side from the first hello, we’ll make you feel right at home every time you come for the Newmarket racing.
Things to know about Newmarket Racecourse
Newmarket dress code
In Newmarket’s own words, simply come dressed to feel your best. Whether that’s in a smart sweatshirt and jeans or glammed up in a bright dress or three-piece suit, as long as you feel comfortable and confident, that’s all that matters.
Newmarket ticket prices
General admission can start out at around £10 for afternoon racing tickets. Tickets can top out at around £170 for access to enclosures like the Champions Lawn – during the likes of the July Festival, a prime event in the height of summer.
Food and drink at Newmarket
Perhaps it’ll be Champagne corks popping at the Champions Gallery over two courses, with panoramic views of the Rowley Mile. Or something a little more casual like a walk-in lunch at Mozart’s Bistro for grilled greats. Whatever your budget, there’s a restaurant to match.
Newmarket Racecourse FAQs
How do I get to Newmarket Racecourse?
Driving in, routes like the A11, A14, M11 and A1/M1 provide easy links to the racecourse. You could jump on our shuttle bus, free from outside the main train station. You could coach it here, from one of the major cities or towns nearby. Or fly in? The Jockey Club, who run Newmarket, offer personalised helicopter travel at selected events.
Is Newmarket Racecourse accessible?
Newmarket has several measures in place to ensure every visit is as easy as possible. From free entry for personal assistants and accessible viewing platforms, to trained staff ready and waiting to help where it’s needed.
What is the history of Newmarket Racecourse?
From hosting the first-ever organised horse race with official rules, to being run by the Jockey Club (the oldest horse racing institution on the globe), Newmarket’s history plays an important role in the story of British horse racing.
Can you pay on the day at Newmarket Racecourse?
If walk-up tickets aren’t sold out, you can buy these on the day. Although, Newmarket recommends that you buy tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.