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The Importance of the Newmarket Gallops

With a history of over 350 years, and playing host to the first ever horserace under written rules, the Newmarket Gallops sit at the very heart of horseracing. Spanning 2,500 acres, they comprise 50 miles of turf gallops, 14 miles of artificial tracks, and are used by over 2,000 horses and 80 trainers every day.

In fact, the Gallops are so important to the ‘Sport of Kings’ that there are large areas that have remained as turf since 1660 and the reign of King Charles II.

This long-enduring survival has encountered, and overcome some challenging threats throughout its history, not least the ravaging spread of agriculture and two World Wars. They even prevailed in the face of the relentless advance of the modern transport system, with the railway line having to tunnel beneath them.

Members of the public are not allowed on the gallops while horses are training, however, by booking on to a Discover Newmarket tour, you can gain exclusive access and learn more about their history and modern day function.

Click here to find out more.

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