How to Plan a Day’s Horse Racing at Epsom Downs Racecourse

In 1779, Edward Smith Stanley, the 12th Earl of Derby, organized a sweepstake horse race at Epsom Downs. Since that time, the Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey has evolved into a major horse racing venue. Every June, the racecourse hosts the famous "Vodafone Derby Festival". If you want to experience a stylish day at the races, plan your visit around Derby time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet connection
• Phone
• Credit card
• Cash
• Stylish clothes
• Admission ticket

1. Save time by booking your tickets online from the Epsom Downs Racecourse website. Go for the grand and exclusive Queen’s Stand if you are feeling rich. It’s opposite the winning post and has the best facilities. Grandstand, Tattenham Straight or Tattenham Picnic area are also good options.
2. For phone booking, call the Box Office between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on week days and pay with Mastercard, Visa or Switch. There is a small booking fee. For booking by post, send your booking details and a check made out to "Racecourse Investments Ltd" to the Racecourse’s Ticketing Department.
3. Pull out all the stops in getting yourself a really classy outfit. People come as much to see as to be seen at Epsom Downs.
4. Take a train from London Waterloo or London Victoria to Epsom Station and get a bus or taxi to the racecourse. Tattenham Corner Station and Epsom Downs Station are both also close to Epsom Downs. If you come by air, you can land in Heathrow or Gatwick; both airports are about 23 miles away. If you are driving to Epsom Downs, take the M25 (Junctions J8 or J9). Or, you can come to Epsom Town and take the B290 Epsom Downs Road.
5. Get a racing card when you arrive at the racecourse. This will give you information about the day’s races.
6. Stroll over to the parade ring and examine the runners as they come in. Choose your fancy and place your bets. Settle down to enjoy your day

Tips & Warnings

• Vodafone Ladies Day is on 1 June, It is a great opportunity for the Ladies to dress up to the nines and compete for the Best Dressed Prize.
• For some great hospitality at the racecourse, check out the following venues: Prince’s Lawn Pavilion, The Winning Post, The Classic Stand, Tattenham Corner Hospitality and Hospitality on the Hill.
• There are no refunds on tickets bought in advance.
• Don’t come dressed in jeans and sports shoes.
• Outside food is not permitted on the racecourse.