An Ancient Tradition

Sir Charles Bunbury, the co-founder of the Epsom Derby, is credited with introducing the Newmarket Guineas to the United Kingdom. The first of these races, the 2,000 Guineas, was first run in 1809, when Bunbury contributed the 2,000 Guineas purse after which the race is named.

Five years later, Bunbury organised the companion race for the 2,000 Guineas, a contest for fillies which rewarded the winner with a 1,000 Guineas purse and was subsequently referred to as the 1,000 Guineas. During the following centuries, the two Newmarket races came to be recognised as amongst the most important in the United Kingdom, and today comprise two of the five ‘Classics’.

Newmarket Racecourse

The town of Newmarket, located in Suffolk County, is recognised as the home of English thoroughbred racing. Aside from being one of the two English racecourses to have the privilege of hosting two Classics, Newmarket also serves as the headquarters of British Horseracing. Newmarket Racecourse comprises two separate race-tracks, with the Rowley Mile Course hosting both the Newmarket Guineas. The course is noted for its long downhill section, and the tough, one furlong uphill run-in.

Newmarket Guineas Facts

The Newmarket Guineas are run at Newmarket as part of the UK Guineas Festival. The 2,000 Guineas is raced on the Saturday of the meeting, and features the top 3 year old thoroughbreds in the United Kingdom racing over a distance of 1 mile. The 1,000 Guineas, restricted to 3 year old fillies, is run the following day over a mile. Whilst the 2 000 Guineas originally offered double the purse of the fillies race, the two races have been paying out equal prize money since 2001.

Newmarket Guineas – How To Get There

Newmarket Guineas By Road

The M11 from London exits at Junction 9 onto the A11 dual carriageway. Exit the A11 at Six Mile Bottom and follow the road to Newmarket. Newmarket can be accessed via the A1 when travelling from the North.

Newmarket Guineas By Train

A bus to Newmarket can be taken from Newmarket Railway Station, which can be accessed by trains from Liverpool Street or Kings Cross, via Cambridge.

Newmarket Racecourse Enclosures

The Premier Enclosure:The Premier Enclosure offers race attendees an exclusive, up-market atmosphere. It also offers the finest catering facilities, and provides premium views of the racecourse and finishing post. All other Newmarket enclosures can be accessed via the Premier Enclosure. A strict dress code is enforced in this area.

The Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure:The Grandstand and Paddock Enclosure provides for a more informal experience of the Newmarket Guineas. The area offers good views of the racing, as well as access to bookmakers and food and beverage facilities. Access is available to the Parade Ring, Winners Circle and the Garden Enclosures. Dress code is smart-formal.

The Rowley Enclosure:The Rowley Enclosure caters for families and race attendees on a budget. Seating is offered in temporary stands, with access to take-away catering facilities, picnic areas and bookmakers. The enclosure is situated at a distance from the finishing post.

Newmarket Racecourse Address

Newmarket Racecourse
The Rowley Mile Course
Newmarket
Suffolk
CB8 0TG
Tel:01638 662752