National Horse Racing Museum

The National Horse Racing Museum occupies a 5-acre site in the heart of Newmarket and provides a wonderful day out for all ages. Using the latest interactive and audio-visual displays you can find out about the history of horseracing, enjoy some of the country’s best examples of sporting art, meet friendly retired racehorses, discover what it feels like to ride a racehorse with our equine simulator, and watch the sparks fly as a farrier works in the forge.

The galleries in the King’s Yard and Trainer’s House tell the story of horseracing from its earliest origins to the world-wide phenomenon it is today. This is explored through works of art, silver, bronzes and artefacts including silks worn by famous jockeys Lester Piggott and Frankie Dettori. You’ll also discover how horses have evolved over millions of years, and what makes the thoroughbred a unique and extraordinary animal.

Situated in the remaining part of Charles II’s racing palace is the Fred Packard Museum and Galleries of British Sporting Art – a home for the British Sporting Art Trust. Paintings by George Stubbs and Sir Alfred Munnings showcase examples of some of the finest British sporting art from around the UK, along with significant loans from the Tate and Victoria & Albert Museum.

The Rothschild Yard has been returned to its former glory to stable retired racehorses. Visitors will be able to meet them and find out how these magnificent thoroughbreds can be very effectively retrained for an enjoyable and successful life beyond horseracing.

In addition to the permanent collection, the museum has up to three special exhibitions open at any one time.

There are two catering options on site - The Tack Room Restaurant features the best of British produce and The Bakery serves a selection of pastries, cakes, cold and hot drinks and also features an eco-refill hub.

Throughout the year, the museum puts on a variety of family friendly trails, activities and events, including the annual farrier competition, Christmas carols, our Halloween spectacular ‘Fright Night at the Museum’, outdoor concerts in Palace House Garden, falconry on horseback and so much more.

Don’t forget to exit through the gift shop – the perfect place to purchase your souvenirs! The shop also features a fabulous second-hand bookstore which sells a variety of good condition, pre-loved books including novels, nonfiction and children’s books. Visit www.nhrm.co.uk for further information.