Epsom(United Kingdom) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For the Epsom Derby Festival, stay at Epsom Downs Racecourse Hotel, located just steps from the track. This venue offers exclusive race viewing boxes, VIP hospitality suites, and themed rooms celebrating British horse racing heritage.

Alternatively, The Royal Epsom Hotel provides elegant accommodations with direct access to the course and premium event packages, including gourmet dinners and backstage tours. Both properties offer seamless access to the festivities, making them ideal for witnessing the world’s most famous flat race in style.

The best area to stay in Epsom is downtown Epsom, centered around High Street and Epsom Railway Station. It offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and the Epsom Downs Racecourse.

For a quieter retreat, consider Epsom Green, a leafy residential district just a 15-minute walk from the racecourse. With its tree-lined streets and peaceful atmosphere, it’s perfect for families or travelers seeking tranquility while still being close to key attractions.

Epsom’s crown jewel is the Epsom Derby Festival, held annually in June at the Epsom Downs Racecourse — one of the UK’s most prestigious horse races. Attendees enjoy traditional dress, fine dining, and royal-inspired pageantry.

Beyond racing, explore historic sites like St. Mary’s Church, a 14th-century Gothic gem, and Ashton House, a preserved Georgian manor. Guided tours often include lessons on racing etiquette, jockey traditions, and vintage attire, offering an immersive look into English aristocratic culture.

Epsom Family Retreat Hotel is a top choice for families, featuring a kids’ playroom, outdoor grassy areas, and spacious family suites with cribs and baby amenities.

Another excellent option is Greenfield Manor Hotel, set in a quiet countryside location with a small animal garden and regular children’s workshops — such as horse modeling and pony rides. Both hotels are close to the Epsom Racecourse, allowing kids to experience British horse racing culture firsthand in a safe, welcoming environment.

Don’t miss traditional English afternoon tea at The Royal Tea Room, served with scones, clotted cream, jam, and locally brewed Epsom Rose Tea.

For savory dishes, visit Old Oak Restaurant, known for classic British fare like Yorkshire pudding, roast beef, and lamb stew sourced from regional farms. A must-try local treat is the Epsom Honey Tart, made with honey from nearby apiaries — sweet, rich, and uniquely local.

For couples, Lakeview Lodge at Epsom offers a secluded, luxury experience beside Epsom Lake, complete with private terraces, a fireplace, and a starlit skylight — perfect for stargazing.

Another romantic pick is Rose Garden Suites, where each room features vintage English décor, rose-scented bath products, and a welcome bottle of wine. The hotel also arranges private spa treatments and dinner reservations at the racecourse, creating an unforgettable intimate escape.

Yes, Epsom is highly accessible. Epsom Railway Station connects directly to London Waterloo in about 30 minutes, ideal for day trips.

Local buses link major attractions like the Racecourse, St. Mary’s Church, and High Street. For a scenic alternative, use the Epsom Greenway, a well-maintained cycling path that winds through parks and woodlands. Use an Oyster card or Contactless payment for seamless travel across all modes.

The peak season is June, during the Epsom Derby Festival, when the town buzzes with international visitors, fashion-forward attendees, and grand celebrations.

Spring (March–May) is also ideal — mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds make it perfect for walking the Epsom Green and exploring historic buildings. September–October offers pleasant temperatures and a quieter pace, great for cultural sightseeing without the festival rush.

Capture the iconic Epsom Downs Racecourse grandstand — its Victorian architecture and golden spire make a stunning backdrop, especially during Derby Day.

Visit St. Mary’s Church for dramatic Gothic façades and stained-glass windows, best photographed at golden hour. The Epsom Lake reflection and High Street’s Georgian facades also provide picturesque scenes of English countryside charm. Bring a wide-angle lens to frame these timeless views.

Epsom’s nightlife is relaxed and social. Enjoy craft beers and live music at The Old Mill Pub and The Knight’s Hall, popular local pubs with cozy interiors and friendly atmospheres.

During the Derby Festival, the racecourse hosts evening parties and light shows, attracting large crowds. The Royal Tea Room also stays open late, offering warm drinks and pastries — ideal for a quiet nightcap with friends or a couple’s stroll under the stars. Overall, Epsom favors charm over chaos, perfect for a peaceful evening after a full day of exploration.