The NHRM: An introduction from Anne-Marie Hogan
- Anne-Marie Hogan
- Dec 14, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 15, 2022
Palace House
Our main building is known as Trainer's House, and Bruce Hobbs was based here until 1986. Palace House is over the road, and was Charles II's sporting lodge, finished in 1671. It now houses the British Sporting Art Trust's collection of paintings. The NHRM moved here in 2016, and we were opened by Queen Elizabeth II. Previously, we were in the Subscription Rooms on the High Street, which are part of the Jockey Club Rooms. The late queen opened that site in 1983. Elizabeth II was also one of ten original inductees to the QIPCO Hall of Fame, which can be found in our entrance hall.
Our historic and scientific collections
In the history gallery, we talk about the early days of racing, from the inception of the Jockey Club in the late 1600s, through to the present day. Over time, racing has been taken from an aristocratic pursuit to a national sport. There's a section here on heroes and legends that highlights this, with objects related to the likes of Lester Piggott and Sir Tony McCoy. Next door, in the Science Gallery, the horse is stripped back, and you're able to see how thoroughbreds have evolved to athletic machines. We've featured a section on bloodlines, which includes the breed's founding fathers: the Byerley Turk, the Darley Arabian and the Godolphin Arabian.
The Rothschild Yard
This yard was finished in 1903, and was also part of Bruce Hobbs' training yard. It's here we showcase the Retraining of Racehorses charity, with up to six horses at any one time. These are retired racehorses looking for a second career, and this is a perfect illustration of how the industry takes aftercare of horses and people so seriously. Those who work here are very happy to talk about the life of the racehorse. Behind the yard, we also have a forge on site, with regular demonstrations. This sits in front of a vast arena, which is well used by the Pony Club, and during the Newmarket Open Weekend. We also have a variety of interactive displays in our former stables, including a jockey simulator.
The Bakery, Tack Room and Shop
We have two restaurants on site: the Bakery and the Tack Room. The Bakery serves picnics and takeaways, while the Tack Room serves proper lunches: much more high end than usual museum cafeteria food. Our shop includes all you'd expect to find in a museum shop, but it also contains many unique presents, particularly championing local suppliers. We also have a second hand bookshop. Just beyond this, you'll find the Hall of Fame, which was launched virtually last year, and physically earlier this year. A couple of months ago, we welcomed two new inductees: Willie Carson and Sir Henry Cecil.
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