Epsom Racecourse

Located on the famous Epsom Downs of Surrey, Epsom Racecourse hosts two of the flat racing season’s most important races, the Epsom Derby and the Epsom Oaks. The racecourse is positioned on public land, which means that the races can be viewed by the public for free from certain areas. In the past the racecourse has attracted massive crowds for major races.

Epsom Racecourse and the surrounding downs are also important thoroughbred training centres, and the area boasts the third largest collection of training facilities in the United Kingdom. Apart from hosting two Classics, Epsom Racecourse also hosts the Epsom Dash – the fastest group one sprint on the planet – and the annual open age group Coronation Cup.

Epsom Racecourse Layout

Epsom Racecourse comprises a left-handed 1 mile 4 furlong turf course.

The course is notorious for the steep undulations of the turf. The 5 furlong run-in is the fastest 5 furlong course in international thoroughbred racing, and contributes to making Epsom Racecourse one of the most testing and stamina-sapping racecourses on earth.

The draw at Epsom Racecourse can have a significant impact on events held there. High numbers are favoured for sprints, whilst low numbers have a history of performing well in races that cover distances of a mile or more.

Epsom Racecourse Facilities

Epsom Racecourse is equipped with several stands, including the Queen’s Stand and the newly constructed Duchess Stand. The most popular viewing area on the course is The Hill, a large rise of land in the middle of the racecourse that provides free views of the racing for spectators.

The various enclosures at Epsom Racecourse offer a wide variety of catering outlets and bars. The Queen’s Stand enforces a strict dress code, but the Grandstand and Hill provide a more informal experience of racing at Epsom Downs Racecourse.

Epsom Racecourse History

Formal race meetings have been taking place on Epsom Downs since at least the 17th century. The Epsom Downs course first achieved prominence in 1780, when it was used to host the inaugural running of the Oaks, a fillies’ race organised by the Earl of Derby.

The Epsom Derby made its debut a year later. As these two races came to be recognised as the most important fixtures for 3 year old thoroughbreds in the United Kingdom, the popularity of Epsom Racecourse grew rapidly, leading to improvements in racecourse layout and spectator facilities.