Epsom Downs Racecourse: Witness the Thrill of the Derby
Located in the stunning countryside of Surrey, England is a legendary horse racing site known as Epsom Downs Racecourse. Widely regarded as the home of one of Britain and world racing’s most prestigious events, The Epsom Derby; the Downs Racecourse has been at the heart of racing for centuries. Situated a short distance from the busy Epsom town centre, it draws not only horse racing fans but also local and international visitors who love to eat out with friends or family. It is a great British landmark and nothing can change that given the racecourse´s long-standing tradition within horse racing history.
As well as its races, Epsom Downs Racecourse is renowned for having a unique atmosphere. One of the best-known sights in British horse racing, Epsom Downs is also one of its most distinctive — from the open spaces that pack up with tens-of-thousands to watch The Derby right down to the Queen’s Stand where select guests enjoy a grandstand view there really is somewhere for everyone at this dramatic racecourse. More than just a racecourse – it is a destination combining the thrill of horseracing with colour, heritage and culture attracting people from all over the world.
Epsom Derby – The Race Unlike Any Other
One of the five Classic races, and generally agreed to be the most prestigious (the other four are 1000 Guineas Stakes, 200WDOI White/Blue) The Epsom Derby is traditionally run at Epsom Downs on the first Saturday in June. Originating in 1780, the Derby was soon seen as a championship for racehorses age three years old from around the world. An undulating, testing and historic track with its fair share of heart-warming victories but gut wrenching defeats on account of the sinew stretching bends that grace a fantastic race which requires horses to be at their smartest — as much so jockeys.
The Derby has earned its acclaim the world over. Every year it captures the imagination not just in the UK but also across globe for horse racing fans. The race forms part of the Investec Derby Festival, one of racing pinnacle week’s which is an invitational for best in class. Winning the Derby is something that can never be taken away from a horse and will guarantee them legendary status among those who appreciate the history of horse racing. With memories like Shergar, who won the Derby in 1981 by an incredible 10 lengths still celebrated with reverence, it seems the spirit of the famous race burns as brightly for today’s fans as it does down through history.
The Epsom Derby attracts tradition from all angles. Every element of the Derby from its grand parade for horses to lavish hats on display in stands are proof positive that this is a big time event. The presence of the royal family usually adds an extra degree of gravitas to proceedings, as it should be given its title: Queen’s Stand. However, whether you are sitting in the Grandstand and watching or rolling around on The Hill (not really advisable) with your trusty satellite navigation system or AA route planner telling everyone where to go as they try not to spill bloodscript everywhere…well that is a different story altogether.
A day out at Epsom Downs Racecourse
Epsom Down Racecourse also has the feature of a horseshoe-shaped track, making it unique among British racecourses. It is renowned for its difficult undulations made from steep uphill and downhill sections… testing the ability of both horse and jockey. Tattenham corner is most well known, and this 2 furlong less than a mile staight to sharp left-hander babdly tests the speed of these horses on fast going. This is a yet another corner where the race has been won or lost in an instant, and one of the most iconic spots on Derby weekend.
I struggled with the flat-turny-surface, but the Elroy-yet-kinda-plains nature of it all makes for an immaculately maintained course that comes up to snuff every time. The Derby is not alone in taking full advantage of the peculiar configuration; other major races run during the course of year extract all they can from this same track makeup. There’s an aura of history and tradition to the entire place, with every inch of dirt rife with memories from bygone eras—from fragments on the track itself down to details in wooden planks lining the grandstands.
Regarding foundations, Epsom Downs Racecourse gives a couple of choices spectators can look over to watch as the horses thunder on by. Maybe the most prestigious nodeside if on standby is [The Queen Stand] where there will have a Deluxe Service for some notable customer and important person between. This is where you sit and enjoy the races to your heart content with some really good views of the track. Or for a comfortable and equally electric atmosphere, families or groups of buddies can opt-in for the Grandstand. Located around the nifty twists and turns of Autodromo Nazionale Monza are two grandstands, each providing good sight lines to every single race that comes round a bend.
The Hill is one of the hallmarks that distinguishes Epsom Downs Racecourse from so many others. And this is a public viewing area which overlooks the circuit at no cost to racegoers. Situated just past Tattenham Corner, the Hill has evolved over time to become a family friendly and casual viewing area of the races. The Hill, on a clear day or evening under the stars provides an open and festive atmosphere that allows friends & family to picnic they way thru into their favorite music experience for thousands! Even the most casual or amateur of horse racing enthusiasts can enjoy a visit to this racetrack, which has an unpretentious appeal and comfortable vibe that attracts regulars and tourists alike.
More Than Just the Derby: Epsom’s Other Races
Although the Epsom Derby is obviously the showpiece, there are many another notable races taking place across from throughout the year at Epsom Downs Racecourse. One of the most esteemed is the Oaks, a race that — just like Derby- tends to be ideological and available only to 3-year-old horses. The Oaks is one of the most popular races, for us racing enthusiasts who follow British flat horse race meetings throughout the year. A top class tenacious rivalry among older horses named the Coronation Cup is open on an invitation only premise.
There are a number of events within Epsom racing which would suit all types so check the full color race card and look for an event near you. Epsom racecourse is one of the most popular venues in British horse racing, hosting meetings from late spring into summer with a diverse programme that should cater for everyone from serious gamblers to those simply out for an enjoyable day out. It doesn’t matter whether you’re going for the fun of The Investec Derby Festival or any one of a number of other events on course – Epsom Downs guarantees it will be an unforgettable experience.
Part of the beauty in attending a race at Epsom is that there are various different experiences to be had. While on major ingress routes (follow the AA signs) to simple access parking in the car park, you will find that it is an effectively organized and valued facility for all. When using a satellite navigation system or by following the old fashioned AA route planner, you can easily reach Epsom Downs Racecourse which avoids any issues with having to try and find where exactly you’re supposed to be heading.
It is well served by Epsom Downs station and the nearby Epsom, making it easy to get there from many parts of Surrey, London and beyond. The junctions as you approach the Downs are all clearly marked and there is plenty to see in Surrey. With the lively Epsom town center only a quick drive away, you can take in some sights and sounds before or after hitting the races.
From Epsom Live Saturday race days to prestigious corporate conferences, from Family Fun Days to our legendary concert and racing event. But the fundamentals of going fast remains constant, and speed still prevails at area race tracks which remain popular with exhibitions, corporations reserving open spaces for business events or hosting social activities. Used for races and events of all types, the racetrack offers a flexible space with beautiful views on all sides.
Epsom Downs boasts substantial investment in its customer experience, from the clean facilities to jolly staff on hand to help. However, the course is constantly updated to provide unique opportunities for visitors. You might be going for a day out with friends, or you may even need to impress your work colleagues at a corporate event — whatever the occasion Epsom Downs offers an unforgettable racing experience set among the natural beauty of Surrey.
Planning Your Visit to Epsom Downs
Image SourceIf you are scheduled to have one of the horse race days at Epsom Downs Racecourse, there will be a lot running in your mind. Situated in the heart of Surrey, a stone’s throw away from London really (well Kempton Park even closer, and it is just the other side of town), Epsom Downs offers several travel solutions to cater for everyone whether they are resident or tourist.
Getting There
For anyone who is travelling by train, Epsom Downs railway station which sits just a stone throw away from the course offers a very good option. This station is also a considered by many as cross country line from London along mostly fast lines and Tattenham Corner which s another nearby railway()管站. Central London is around 45 minutes away, depending on which train service you opt for. The stations are signed well and have good access points to the course around all of its sides.
For those arriving by car, there are multiple parking options including a large capacity and organized lot located right next to the course. AA signs on major roads guide you to the racecourse. Heathrow and Gatwick are less than an hour chauffeur drive for international visitors, including clients travelling in from countries like India – London is very centrally located [more about Airport Transfers]
There are also several local bus routes which run close to the racecourse. Epsom town centre is served by a good local transport network, so you can even hop on an out-bound bus that will get you close to the foot of the Downs. Epsom Downs is easily reached by train, car or bus making it an ideal venue for any visitor.
Accommodation
Epsom Downs provides a comprehensive and diverse selection of overnight accommodation to suit all pocket sizes. Anyone seeking luxury will find a handful of luxurious country house hotels only minutes away offering breath-taking view over the Surrey hills. Less pricey are local bed-and-breakfast guesthouses or chain hotels just down the road in Epsom. For families, there are many hotels with larger suites or family rooms which is helpful to find one that suits your needs.
Tickets and Packages
The Epsom Downs Racecourse has several ticketing options based on the event you plan to attend, General admission, whether for one of the big festivals like Investec Derby or any other fixture can be bought online (discounts often available if you book a few days early. For those looking to elevate their experience, hospitality packages include high end seating options, fabulous dining choices and the opportunity to explore exclusive areas like the Queen’s Stand. The best way to purchase tickets for your preferred event is directly through the racecourse website or via one of their authorized agents.
Making the Most of Your Epsom Experience
After all, it pays to be prepared if you want to get the most out of your trip. There is so much for visitors to both see and do, at the races themselves or exploring all of the attractions in Urraween from natural beauty, it pays dividends to plan ahead so that you can have a nice day out.
Dress Code
Epsom: as a classic track, Epsom’s dress code depends on where you will be watching the racing from. Queen’s Stand, and the others premium enclosures; formal dress is requested. Gents wear jackets and ties and ladies typically pick out a fancy dress or hat ear especially for the day of events like The Derby. For more casual (or the Hill), smart-casual is fine, but always check race-specific guidelines before heading out.
What to Bring
So, what should you pack for your day out at the races? The grounds alone are huge, so put your most comfortable shoes if you’re planning to wander the site or take a hoolaupt into the Downs. Binoculars: Watching racing with a pair of binoculars can get you up close and personal with the action. Even in the open space on overcast days you will roasted. Families, meanwhile, can bring a picnic upHill so long as you know your enclosure dos and donts for food and drink.
Food and Drink
Restaurants on Epsom Downs cater for all tastes. With gourmet meals in the exclusive hospitality areas and more casual fare for the public enclosures, there truly is something to suit everyone. Fine dining with a racecourse view can be enjoyed in The Queen’s Stand, ideal for those wanting to make their day out even more special. Frequent food stalls scattered across the venue provide quick meals, drinks and snacks for those just breezing throughRC (For a full day!) From a snack to passing lunch, Savannah highlights quickly or can sit-down too as well.
Epsom Downs: Racing and so Much More
Although horseracing is undoubtedly the draw, Epsom Downs has greater appeal than just some exciting races. The racecourse is integral in history and tradition, making it a rewarding place for the not-so-sporty ones.
History and Heritage
Epsom Downs Racecourse is one of the oldest in existence, with a timeline that stretches back to the 17th century. It is much more than that though, as the place had a role to play in British history itself. Epsom Downs has witnessed many great moments since its inception as a meeting point for the early horse racers of Surrey, over 200 years ago to its continued status as one of the most globally renowned racecourses. Heritage can be seen wheeling through the front gates like race-day welcomers, from stand design to tradition with big races.
The Downs
The beauty of the Downs is not limited to the racecourse. Set in 45 acres of beautiful landscape, there are a range of amenities for you to enjoy and the surrounding area offers wonderful vistas over the Surrey countryside with many walking routes. It makes for a tranquil space to stroll before the races and after, when you’re simply exploring Gloucestershire having been the day’s fixture of course. Perhaps it is because the location leaves visitors feeling so peaceful or maybe they just need some time to relax, but I have received many comments from guests who are nature enthusiasts and do not want to leave their busy urban life.
Events and Conferences
Epsom Downs Racecourse is more than a race track and can be used to host an array of events. With a capacity for many thousands amidst its attractive grounds, Portman Road has ample space and resources to function as an ideal setting for conferences, exhibitions – even weddings. Stunning surroundings and good access by public transport mean it is often the choice for corporate functions and private parties alike. Placing it in the running to host any event from a business conference, for example; or if you are looking for wedding venues with character.