Recreation in Forest Heath

Newmarket is famous as the 'Sport of Kings' with horseracing during the season (April-November), when thousands of spectators prepare to place their bets and enjoy the racing with entertainment and interactive activities for all the family.. You can also watch some of the 2800 racehorses being exercised on the gallops during the morning from Monday to Saturday.


Fishing is popular in local rivers and dykes, particularly along the River Lark. The British record for Dace was caught in the Little Ouse at Brandon and quality fish are still regularly caught in this area.

Brandon also offers fishing, picnic spots and outdoor bowls on a pretty 28 acre site with riverside frontage and moorings for holiday boats situated near the playing fields. For more information telephone the Brandon Tourist Information Centre on (01842) 814955.

There are miles of public footpaths and bridleways for ramblers and riders to enjoy, including the Lark Valley Walk which links Mildenhall and Bury St Edmunds.

Off-road running takes place in the Brandon area. The Brandon Fern Hoppers regularly hold events and twice-weekly training sessions (Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings) in the forest. For information call Roger and Sally Dormer on 01842 827210.

Cycling is pleasant and easy along our gentle landscapes. Mountain bikes can be hired from the Thetford Forest Visitor Centre at Santon Downham and also at Brandon Country Park. Mountain bike racing events are held in the Forest.

Stables and riding schools are located at Santon Downham, Dalham, Elveden and Holywell Row.

Town trails and walking information are also available from the Tourist Information Centre.

Golfers will enjoy the courses at Newmarket (18 hole) and Worlington (one of the best nine hole courses in Europe). There is also a pay and play golf driving range and nine hole course at Kenny Hill near Mildenhall.

Red Lodge Karting Centre offers 15 minute or longer sessions on the race circuit with a full safety briefing and all the equipment. For an adrenalin buzz that can't be beaten, call (01638) 552316 or visit their web site on www.redlodge.co.uk

For an off-road driving action-packed day call Newmarket WildTracks at Kennett which was the first off-road activity park in the country. It offers an adventure park of fun with vehicles for everyone, from experienced competitors to beginners. Great for corporate days out or stag and hen weekends! Call (01638) 751918.

Arts lovers will enjoy professional touring arts events as well as community workshops and performances. Small galleries can be found in Newmarket, often with an equine theme. Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds theatres and galleries are within easy reach.

My Neighbourhood
Forest Heath District Council
District Offices
College Heath Road
Mildenhall
Suffolk IP28 7EY
Tel: +44(0)1638 719000
Out of hours emergency number for all Forest Heath District Council services
01284 763252