Things to do in the area
Epsom has been an important town for thousands of years, with wealthy and influential people meeting here since the Anglo-Saxon period. Today the town is most famous for the Epsom Derby race, the richest horse race in Britain and the most prestigious of the five classics. If you’re visiting for the Derby, or any other race, you might wonder what to do in Epsom outside of race time. There’s plenty to do in and around this historic and picturesque town – find out below.
EPSOM DOWNS & WALTON ON THE HILL
Visitors can enjoy walking, cycling and horseriding across Epsom Downs and Walton on the Hill. There are wonderful views across the racecourse and you can see spectacular views across London with key landmarks visible on a clear day. The Downs consist of chalk downland, grassland and woodland, and the area is great for wildlife spotting including Skylarks and various butterflies including the rare Chalk Hill Blue. When there is a breeze, the Downs also make the perfect kite flying spot.
The area is also used to exercise racehorses so there are two important restrictions in place in order to protect both members of the public and the members of the racing community who use the Downs. Before midday when racehorses are exercising on the Gallops, people should not walk or cycle on or across the Gallops and dogs must remain on leads across all of Epsom Downs. There is clear signage and the tracks reserved for racehorses are marked with white discs along the route. This includes the Sand Gallops on the back of Walton Downs.
Chessington World of Adventures
Theme Park, Zoo and sea life centre all rolled into one, Chessington World of Adventures is guaranteed to be an action-packed day out. From riding white-knuckle rollercoasters to watching show-stopping sea lion performances, Chessington has it all. It’s the perfect family day out close to Epsom.
There are over 1000 exotic animals to discover at Chessington Zoo, including lions, tigers, monkeys, penguins and gorillas. There are also theme park rides to suit all ages, from merry-go-rounds for the little ones to thrilling rides that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re visiting with young children or teenagers, there’s guaranteed to be endless delights.
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Horton Country Park
Explore 400 acres of beautiful natural countryside and woodland dating back to medieval times. The park is a popular destination for walking, cycling, bird watching and many more outdoor pursuits. Horton Country Park looks stunning at any time of year, but the woodland really comes to life in late spring when the bluebells flower and ground transforms into a carpet of brightest blue.
There are various walking routes to suit people of all ages and abilities, which pass through open meadows and wind between patches of ancient woodland. See if you can spot butterflies, bees and birds, including the green woodpecker, with its distinctive red crown and green wings.
Hobbledown Farm Park
Immerse yourselves in a fantastical wonderland at Hobbledown, where you’ll find expansive adventure play areas, farmyard animals, immersive play and so much more. Animal lovers will be amazed by exotic creatures like wallabies, coatis, rainbow lorikeets, peacocks, racoons, alpacas and camels.
Come rain or shine there’s plenty of space for children to explore, play and let off steam. What’s more, the “Hobnosh” menu takes inspiration from some of London’s hippest street-food stalls – you’ll find delicious and healthy dishes from across the globe.
From the wooden play areas to the costumed characters, you and your family can enjoy an otherworldly experience at Hobbledown.
