Epsom Downs – The Derby Meeting: Where You Should Stay
It’s known as a difficult and undulating course and it poses a serious challenge to amateur horses and riders. Fifty-percent longer than the 2,000 Guineas Stakes, the Epsom Downs racecourse has been run since 1780, and is the most prestigious, and wealthiest, horse race is England.
The race has inspired many State-side competitions to take the name Derby. The most famous is the Kentucky Derby, held annually in Louisville, Kentucky. Although the start of the Epsom Derby has been changed multiple times, it currently takes place between Epsom, Tadworth, and Langly Vale. Because the course goes through public areas, spectators can watch the Derby for free along much of the track. This has made it increasingly difficult to actually watch the race freely with so many people vying for good view.
There are many other events at the Epsom Downs throughout the year besides the Derby Festival. There are also other races throughout the year, as well as the popular Live! Music Nights. This year the Derby Festival is sponsored by the leading specialist bank Investec, following an almost 38 million pound redevelopment program.
The Epsom downs is a grade-one racecourse available by rail and road. Both Heathrow Airport and Gatwick airport are approximately 23 miles from the track. From either airport you can use the underground, taxis, or rent a car. There are plenty of signs marking a path to the Derby Festival during the racing season.
There are multiple car parks near the Epsom Downs racetrack. Most maps of the Epsom Downs area will provide you with many car park options. If you are traveling by train, you can arrive at either the Epsom Downs station, or the Tattenham Corner station. From the Epsom Downs station, it’s approximately a Kilometer. From Tattenham, it’s around a half kilometer. Both stations offer taxi services to bring you to the events.
It’s recommended to share a car to the Derby events. If you are driving and have extra room in the car, or if you need a spot in someone else’s, you can sign up on www.surreycarshare.com. It’s easy to car share, and saves on gas, time, and ultimately money.
There are many quality hotels in Epsom, Surrey. Options include the Chalk Lane Hotel. This hotel is in a quiet part of Epsom, and features two restaurants and lies between the Derby tracks and the Epsom town center. It’s conveniently located off the M25, equidistant to both Gatwick and Heathrow airports.
One further recommendation is the Nonsuch Park Hotel. This hotel is directly across from the historic Nonsuch Park, and is an attractive, family-owned accommodation. It is both luxurious and affordable, with a stunning restaurant and a comfortable atmosphere.
