A town steeped in racing history, Newmarket is the headquarters of British horseracing
and home to many of the country’s finest trainers, world class facilities and two racecourses. For one
special weekend in September, Newmarket opens to the public and offers exclusive behind the scenes
access. Named in memory of legendary trainer Sir Henry Cecil, The Henry Cecil Open Weekend on
Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th September welcomes visitors to explore and enjoy all that the
internationally renowned racing town in Suffolk has to offer.
Horse racing fans can go behind the scenes at some of Britain’s top racehorse training establishments
where they can meet trainers, staff and their equine heroes. Last year saw Harry Eustace, Tom Clover
and Roger Varian open their yards, all of whom featured on the list of 2023 Royal Ascot winning
trainers. With over 25 yards expected to open, the public can see first-hand the love, care and
attention that goes into looking after racehorses.
Over the course of the weekend, the Henry Cecil Open Weekend provides the opportunity to visit The
National Stud, British Racing School, the Injured Jockey’s Fund rehabilitation centre, Peter O’Sullevan
House, the National Horseracing Museum, Newmarket Equine Hospital, Jockey Club Rooms,
Tattersalls, and the famous Warren Hill gallops.
Sunday afternoon sees a full programme of events for all the family to enjoy including Shetland Pony
Grand National, Parade of Retired Racehorses kindly sponsored by Al Shaqab, show jumping
competition featuring leading racing personalities and a fun dog show.
Over £55,000 was raised in 2022 for the chosen charity partners, this year the Henry Cecil Open
Weekend will continue to support the racing industry and its workforce whilst also supporting the
local community. Money raised will be donated to the long-term charity partner and main beneficiary
Racing Welfare, as well as the British Racing School who are celebrating their 40th anniversary, and
Newmarket Open Door.
The Henry Cecil Open Weekend marks the beginning of The Newmarket Gold Season, a four-week
period which showcases Newmarket as a hub for the international horse racing industry, and also
forms part of National Racehorse Week – a nationwide annual celebration of the racehorse.
Charlie Fellowes, Chairman of The Henry Cecil Open Weekend, said:
“Every year it is fantastic to see the public descend on Newmarket for the Henry Cecil Open Weekend.
It is so important for our sport to welcome new people and the Open Weekend is an opportunity to
showcase how well our horses are looked after and for us to give an insight into life on a racing yard.
The Open Weekend promises to be unique and enjoyable day out and we encourage everyone to
come and experience all that Newmarket has to offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy across
the weekend.
A huge thank you must go to my fellow trainers, racing staff, volunteers and participants, without
whom the event would not be possible. The Henry Cecil Open Weekend continues to be an annual
highlight for many and we are very much looking forward to the weekend and raising as much
money as possible for our charity partners.”
Tickets cost £15 when purchased in advance, £20 on the day. Children under 16 go for free. For
further information and a full schedule please visit www.thehenrycecilopenweekend.co.uk.
Facilities
- Car Parking
- Disabled Accessibility
- On site parking
