Situated on the North Downs in Surrey, Epsom Downs Racecourse stages Derby, the greatest Flat Race in the world. The racecourse has been staging this numero uno racing event, known as the most unusual and testing Flat racing track on the planet, since 1780. The twelve-furlong Derby trip provides a roller-coaster ride, most notably the turn into the most famous bend in racing called Tattenham Corner.
History of Derby
The race, named after Lord Derby’s country house in Woodmansterne, was first organised on 14 May 1779. Open to three-year-old fillies, (8st 4lb), at 50 guineas each and run over a mile and a half, there were 12 runners and appropriately, Lord Derby’s Bridget won it, the 5-2 favourite. After the first 50 years (1780-1829), Derby Day had become firmly established as the premier event in the racing year. Towards the end of the 18th century, Derby Day had established itself as not only a major sporting event but also “the Londoners’ day out”.
The 2022 race fixtures dates for Epsom Downs Racecourse are available here: https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/epsom/events-tickets/
Directions
The racecourse is just a few minutes from Epsom Town Centre on the B290 Epsom Downs Road or alternatively, just off junction 9 of the M25. For SAT NAV, please key in the postcode: KT18 5LQ. Alternatively, you can use the AA Route Planner and select KT18 5LQ as the destination.
Public Transport Links
Train: Epsom Station is connected by both South West Trains and Southern Trains. Connectivity is available from London Waterloo and London Victoria. Take a 10-minute taxi or bus ride from the station. Epsom Downs Station is approximately a 1-mile walk to the racecourse.
Bus: Metrobus operates a 460, 480 and 406F service which runs from Epsom Town Centre to Tattenham Corner Station. It is a straightforward way to reach the racecourse in just 3 stops.
Orchid Hotel is just a 10-minute drive away from Epsom Downs Racecourse. Explore Epsom and London with us! Our members enjoy exclusive discounts on local attractions, restaurants, bars, and popular places in the town. Write to us at care@aghotels.co.uk to learn more.
