Royal Yard Tours

Royal Trainers William Haggas, Michael Bell and John and Thady Gosden open their doors for three very special tours this summer in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Discover Newmarket has been given exclusive access for our visitors to go behind the scenes and tour the yards where her Majesty has horses in training. You will then be taken to the Gallops by the trainer to see their horses exercise.

After enjoying brunch at the 2AA rosette restaurant at the Bedford Lodge Hotel you will be taken on a guided tour of the National Stud. Here you will receive a personal viewing of the resident stallions conducted by Joe Grimwade, LVO and former Manager of The Royal Studs. Joe Grimwade received the LVO (Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order) an award bestowed by the Queen for loyal service in 2007, following 16 years’ service. During this time, he managed the stallions standing at Sandringham including Royal Applause and Motivator.

Your tour concludes with a visit to the impressive National Horseracing Museum which was opened by her Majesty, the Queen in 2016 and is located on the former site of King Charles II’s Palace and Stables. Here you will be able to spend the afternoon learning about the fascinating history of the town and how Royalty has played such a huge part in racing throughout the centuries including of course, today. Watch the delightful TV coverage of when the Queen won the 2016 Gold Cup at Royal Ascot with her horse Estimate and view the Royal Racing silks. Explore the amazing collection of British Sporting Art and meet the resident horses before enjoying a cream tea in the Tack Room, their onsite restaurant.

William Haggas, Somerville Lodge
Six Time Classic-winning trainer, William Haggas is one of the most respected trainers in the headquarters of British racing in Newmarket. Since training his first winner in 1987 he has had over 2,000 winners. 2021 was a record breaking year with over 180 winners including three Group 1’s.

Michael Bell, Fitzroy House
Michael Bell has enjoyed a successful career during which he has trained over 1400 winners including a Derby and Oaks winner among some of his most notable successes.

John and Thady Gosden, Clarehaven Stables
John Gosden who has recently joined forces with his son Thady, has been associated with some of the sport’s brightest stars and his career haul is well over 3,000 race wins including well over 100 Group 1 winners all over the world.