Things To Do
in Newmarket
Newmarket is a historic market town in Suffolk renowned as the heart of British horse racing and training. Located just northeast of Cambridge, it sits amid rolling countryside and famed stud farms. The town blends racing heritage with traditional pubs, independent shops, and leafy streets perfect for a relaxed visit.
Visitors can soak up the equine atmosphere, enjoy easy countryside access, and explore charming parks and streets full of character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional English fare. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Newmarket, admiring the historical architecture and quaint shops. Don’t miss the impressive All Saints' Church, where you can explore its stunning stained glass windows.
Visit the National Horseracing Museum to immerse yourself in the rich history of racing in Newmarket. Engage in interactive exhibits that highlight the significance of the town in the equestrian world and learn about the famous horses that have raced here. Post-museum, enjoy a light lunch at one of the nearby pubs, relishing local ales and hearty dishes.
As the sun sets, take a peaceful walk through the Newmarket Town Centre, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, perhaps one that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, celebrating local produce. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café, fueling up for an exciting day ahead. Head to the iconic Newmarket Racecourses, where the thrill of horse racing awaits. Take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the preparation and training that goes into each race.
Find a good spot to watch the races unfold, cheering on your chosen horses while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Between races, explore the various food stalls and boutique shops set up around the course, indulging in local delicacies. Take time to mingle with fellow racing fans and soak in the excitement of this beloved British pastime.
After the races, consider dining at one of Newmarket’s well-reviewed restaurants, where you can discuss the day’s events over a delicious meal. Choose a place that offers classic British dishes or perhaps a modern twist on traditional cuisine. Cap off your night with a stroll through the town, enjoying the lively ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚗Local transportation (single ride/day pass) | $6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich horse racing heritage and countryside access
- Compact town with easy walking and good local amenities
- Proximity to Cambridge and southern England destinations
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Some attractions require transport beyond the town center
Places to Visit in Newmarket
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide open heath with expansive views across horse country; excellent for sunrise and landscape photography.
Beautiful gardens and horse-breeding grounds offering picturesque scenes and close-up shots of horses and flora.
Historic market square with timber-framed buildings and lively daily life; great for candid street photography.
Iconic racing venue views; capture horses and crowds, especially during race days or morning training sessions.
Food in Newmarket
Newmarket Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Scones with clotted cream and jam, a quintessential Suffolk treat often enjoyed in cafés and tearooms after a stroll through town.
Must-Try!
A classic English pie commonly found in pubs and on market stalls, best with pickles and ale.
British staple widely available in pubs and seaside-style venues around Newmarket.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Market Place offering fresh produce, bakery goods, and local crafts.
Seasonal street-food pop-ups and café vans during market days and local events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and join queues in an orderly fashion; politeness is valued in daily interactions.
Respect stables and staff; speak softly around horses and ask before close approaches or photography near trainers.
Tipping is optional; dress codes are generally casual; good manners and quiet conversation are appreciated in pubs.
Safety
Tipping in Newmarket
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary in the UK. If service charge is not included, a tip of around 10-15% is typical in restaurants; taxis and hotels may appreciate rounding up or a small tip.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming countryside; great for walking, market redecorations, and early-race season events.
Long daylight hours and festive atmosphere; expect outdoor events and pleasant countryside photography, with occasional showers.
Golden light and harvest season; quieter streets with horse racing fixtures continuing into autumn.
Cool, often damp weather; cosy pubs and indoor activities dominate; days are shorter but peaceful countryside can be photogenic after frost.
Newmarket at Night
Hiking in Newmarket
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic 3–5 mile loop around heathland, offering open views and wildlife spotting.
Rural lanes and gentle hills ideal for day walks and photography of rural Suffolk life.
A longer drive away, but a fantastic option for forest walks and more ambitious hikes.
Airports
How to reach Newmarket by plane.
Major international airport about an hour by rail/car from Newmarket; frequent connections and good rail links via Cambridge.
Small regional airport near Cambridge; limited international service, primarily for general aviation.
Major airport located about 1.5 hours by road from Newmarket; broad international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Stable staff, trainers, and racing enthusiasts form a core part of the local economy and culture.
Residents who enjoy the town’s markets, schools, and green spaces.
People connected to nearby Cambridge and university towns seeking day trips or weekend visits.
Horse racing fans and countryside enthusiasts exploring the Suffolk countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The town’s core identity with nearby training yards and racing events at the racecourse.
Local clubs and parks host seasonal cricket matches and football games; community sports are a staple.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Newmarket.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafés offer vegetarian pies, veggie mains, salads; when in doubt, ask cooks to modify or check the menu.
Vegan options are increasingly common; look for plant-based dishes or request substitutions.
Ask about gluten-free options and cross-contamination; many venues accommodate with dedicated menus.