The Newmarket line opened in 1848, and the original station on All Saints Road featured a grandiose design with Baroque-style columns. Unfortunately, it doesn't survive today - it was closed in 1902 when another station opened to serve the famous racecourse. Financially backed by millionaire racehorse owner Colonel Harry McCalmont, this second station was in action until the 1980s and put the local horse racing economy, which had begun in the 18th century, on the path to the international acclaim. Today Newmarket boasts 52 stud farms and 75 licensed trainers, and is also home to the National Horse Racing Museum.
The modern station was built in 1981, and has just one platform. During WW2, many evacuees were sent to Newmarket and the town was visited - by rail - by military top brass, including Churchill and General Eisenhower. Away from the horses and VIPs, this attractive market town boasts a bustling centre full of big-name retailers, independent shops and bars and restaurants.