Newmarket is the front runner when it comes to all things horses, home to two of the best tracks in the UK, which host some of the biggest and best races in the world. That equine history is on show at the wonderful Palace House and the National Heritage Centre, while the racecourse comes alive on race day, with thousands enjoying the hospitality, not to forget the big-name pop stars who perform at summer concerts.
There’s plenty to Newmarket if furlongs, fillies and yearlings mean nothing to you. The Suffolk town is packed full of cafes, coffee shops, delicious delis and restaurants, with much of the action taking place on bustling High Street. Nearby, you’ll also find historic country parks, one of the best-preserved wetlands in Europe and fascinating museums. And our hotels in Newmarket are in the heart of the action and just eight furlongs – or a mile – from the racecourse.
Things to do in Newmarket
Activities
If you only do one thing in Newmarket, make sure it’s the brilliant National Heritage Centre, a three-in-one attraction that brilliantly explains the town’s equine history. There’s plenty to explore that doesn’t involve horsing around, including historic windmills, stunning 17th-century gardens and one of the largest wetlands in Europe.
Shopping
Home to over 50 outlets including Clarks, Boots and Costa, The Guineas Shopping Centre is the main mall in Newmarket. Located in the heart of town, just a short walk from our Newmarket hotel, The Guineas Shopping Centre is open daily with a wide range of food and drink outlets spanning Greek dishes, pizza and local dishes, plus free car parking after 4 pm.
A historic market town dating back to the 13th century, Newmarket’s market is still a mainstay with up to 40 stalls set up every Tuesday and Saturday in the Market Square on High Street. The market runs from 9 am to 3 pm and covers a wide range of goods including local fresh produce, arts and crafts, artisan goods and more.
Getting Around
The Suffolk town of Newmarket is around 60 miles north of London and just over 10 miles east of Cambridge. Nearby main roads include the A11, A14 and M11.
If you’re coming by train, Newmarket Train Station is the local train station. The small one-platform station is around half a mile from the town centre and has regular departures to Ipswich and Cambridge. The basic station has limited facilities with no toilets and no ticket machines, so get your tickets online or on the train.
The closest airport is Stansted, with the 32-mile journey taking around 50 minutes by car or taxi and just over an hour via train including a change in Cambridge. You can make your journey even easier by staying the night at our Stansted Airport hotel.
Shopping in Newmarket
