Newmarket has a powerful claim the title as the home of British racing.
Given the number of trainers and horses stabled there and the proximity of the offices of British racing's 'powers that be', it is a fair assumption.
Driving into Lambourn signs welcome visitors to the Valley of the Racehorse. With the gallops blanketing the little Berkshire town it's clear how it took the name.
Because Lambourn has a broader mix of Flat and National Hunt it could be argued that it deserves that 'home' title. Few national hunt horses have a Newmarket postcode so maybe the town's 'home' claim should be more Flat-specific! Those who reside north of the Watford Gap will point to the Malton and Middleham training heartlands in Yorkshire's green belt of gallops, flat caps and beautiful scenery.
All these destinations offer a wonderful introduction to life behind the track for any newcomer to the sport. If you love horse racing - or believe you might - Open Days offer the chance to visit the yards and get close to the equine stars you see 'on the box'. National Racehorse Week is coming up in September, with opportunities to apply to many stables for guided visits.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
LOOKING BRIGHT FOR IRISH STARS
Karl Hedley reports as jumps challengers pile on the heat across the water
WELL SET TO STEP AHEAD
Ben Morgan has ten warming prospects to follow in the coming weeks
CUE FOR MANY A CELEBRATION
Graham Buddry recalls the life and times of jumps legend Cue Card
KID KAN DOO FOR NICHOLLS
Paul Jacobs casts a close eye over leading picks for this month's big races
TWISTER RUNS MASTER CLASS
John Anthony watches Nigel Twiston-Davies' star catch time judges' eye
NO LEAVES ON LINE TO SLOW THESE FLYERS
Simon Nott enjoys a West Country Weekend catching up with ring pals
EXPECTATIONS SOAR AT RIDGE
Nick Townsend talks to rising Newmarket training star James Owen
KID KAN DOO FOR NICHOLLS
Paul Jacobs casts a close eye over leading picks for this month's big races
NORMA'S COLOURS ARE FLYING PROUD
Robert Cooper sees Percy Willis and Kaadam grace white and green spots and red cap
CHIANTI FLOWS AS NEW LION GROWLS
Prior to the National Hunt season 'proper' getting underway at Chepstow the question on many people's lips was whether or not Willie Mullins would target a second consecutive British trainers' title.
