The National Horseracing Museum tells the story of horse racing 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. Using the latest interactive and audio visual displays the museum also takes a different look at the sport, examining the physical attributes of the elite equine athlete and the importance of thoroughbred pedigree.
Your visit will not be complete without riding a winner on our famous racehorse simulator!
The main body of the museum is situated in the Trainer’s House...
In the first of five galleries, you will be introduced to the cornerstones of racing and its unique founding documents. These tell the story of the emergence of it as a national sport and Newmarket’s place in its development. Here you will find the first ever printed race results, the Salisbury Charter which dates from 1654, the 1791 Stud Book and the Newmarket Match Book which holds the records of match races as far back as 1718.
This gallery traces the progressive domestic organisation of racing from the mid-eighteenth century to the global sport it is today. Some important aspects here are the royal connections to racing, the Jockey Club’s activities, racing’s heroes and the social and political influences of the times.
In this gallery you will discover what makes the racehorse such a supreme and unique equine athlete and discover the secrets of the thoroughbred pedigree by exploring the ultimate family tree and unravelling the genetic code.
The Sporting Glory gallery is a theatrical presentation showcasing some memorable and inspiring winning moments with the individuals involved. From Frankie Dettori's Magnificent 7 to Bob Champion's Grand National victory, this gallery shows some of the greatest 'Winning Moments' in horseracing
The King’s Yard is an opportunity to explore behind-the scenes of the horse racing world
This gallery features an archaeological presentation of the discovery, recovery and rebuild of the horse skeleton thought to be Pot8os. Explaining how science is being used to determine the identity of the skeleton through mtDNA analysis and appraisal of the skeletal anatomy alongside what is historically known about Pot8os. The gallery covers how science has already helped solved the mystery of the 1880 Epsom Derby winner.
Find out how Wetherbys became the heart of horse racing in 1770, the process of how horse names and jockey colours are chosen and how the family still plays a part in managing horse racing today. James Weatherby was recruited by the Jockey Club as Secretary and Keeper of the Match Book. During his tenure, he established the foundations of the business, particualry in recognizing demand for authentic information on racing and breeding. Now in its 4th century, Weatherby’s continues to provide administrative, commercial and financial services to horseracing.
This gallery is home to the equine simulator complemented by a description of the change in jockey riding styles from a seated position to the “martini glass” crouch and how the different styles affected the effort required by the galloping horse through weight distribution, rhythm and aerodynamics
See some of the iconic items of clothing worn by John McCririck during his long television career. John was famous for his flamboyant and eccentric dress and became famous firstly as an award-winning journalist, and later as a contestant in Celebrity Big Brother, Wife Swap and The Weakest Link.
Gain insight into the history of breeding, how Britain contributes to the modern worldwide horseracing industry, the number of thoroughbred breeders in the country and the process of stud management.
Over the centuries, developments in veterinary medicine has ebbed and flowed with social, political and economic fashions. Many advances have been established and then lost, affecting the development of the veterinary profession. Explore some of the developments in veterinary anaesthesia, surgery and medical imaging in this fascinating display.
The horseracing industry provides a range of education and support for its future, present and former workforce. Learn about how you can start a career in horseracing, and discover how racing looks after its own.
