The historic Epsom Downs Racecourse is located in the Northern Downs of Surrey. The racecourse boasts a number of distinct features, including an undulating turf, which tests the ability and stamina of rider and racehorse to the limit. Epsom Racecourse is located on public land, which gives the general public the opportunity to watch racing on Epsom Downs for free
The Epsom Derby
Known simply as the 'Derby'in the UK, the Epsom Derby is considered by many racing fans to be the greatest thoroughbred race on the planet. Here is our helpful guide.
Eposm Downs Course
The Epsom Derby – An Incomparable Heritage
Known simply as the ‘Derby’ to the inhabitants of the United Kingdom, the Epsom Derby is considered by many horse racing fans to be the greatest thoroughbred race on the planet. First raced over the vacant expanses of the Epsom Downs in 1780, the race was named after 12th Earl of Derby following a coin toss organised to establish which of he or Sir Charles Bunbury would provide his name to the race for posterity. During subsequent centuries the Epsom Derby grew steadily in both popularity and prestige, until it came to represent the pinnacle of flat racing in the United Kingdom. In over 200 years of racing, the Epsom Derby has been won by a selection of the finest thoroughbreds to have graced British turf, with the likes of Flying Fox, Sea-Bird and Nijinsky all forging their legends on the Epsom Downs.
Epsom Derby Facts
The Epsom Derby is run annually on the first weekend in June as part of the Derby Festival. The Derby is rated as a Group One race, the highest level of thoroughbred racing, with entry restricted to 3-year old colts and fillies. The event draws top quality fields, and represents a battle between the season’s top 3-year old colts. The Epsom Derby is run over a distance of 1 mile, 4 furlongs and 10 yards on a left-handed turf track at Epsom Downs Racecourse. The race is considered to be the second leg of the English Triple Crown, and is one of the richest races in English flat racing, awarding a purse of £1,250,000.
The Facilities
The Queens Stand:Opened in 1992 the Queen’s Stand is the premier enclosure at Epsom Racecourse. The area offers the best views of the action on the racetrack as well as easy access to the Winners Circle and Parade Ring. The Queen’s Stand is all about elegance and formality, and a strict dress code is enforced on race days.
The Grandstand Enclosure:The Grandstand is a high quality enclosure offering a more informal experience of racing at Epsom Racecourse. The enclosure provides good views of the run-in as well as the finishing post, and also provides access to the Parade Ring. The Grandstand offers access to bookmakers as well as a variety of food and beverage outlets. Dress code is smart casual.
The Lonsdale Enclosure:The Lonsdale Enclosure is built opposite the Queen’s Enclosure offering similar views at a lower cost. The area is equipped with takeaway outlets and bars, and also provides access to bookmakers.
The Hill:Free to pedestrians, The Hill continues the tradition of offering free views of the racing at Epsom Racecourse. The area is located in the middle of track, offering panoramic views of the racing. The Hill is the most informal enclosure at Epsom Racecourse and is famous for its relaxed party atmosphere. The area is equipped with a number of catering outlet and bookmakers.
How To Get To Epsom Downs
Epsom By Car: Epsom Racecourse is located a short distance from Epsom Town via the B290. The racecourse can also be accessed via the M25, using the Junction 8 or 9 turnoffs. Epsom can also be access from London via the A297.
Epsom By Train:Epsom Racecourse is serviced by the Tattenham Corner Station. Trains to Tattenham Corner can be taken from London Waterloo or London Victoria. Epsom Town also has a railway connecting to London, and offers a shuttle service to the racecourse on race days.
Epsom Racecourse
The Grandstand
Epsom Downs
Surrey
KT18 5LO
Tel:01372 470047