Epsom Downs Racecourse History
The town of Epsom was originally known as a source of healing mineral waters and first became popular with the English nobility in the early 1600’s. Londoners would travel to the springs to enjoy the clean countryside and escape the overcrowding and squalor of London.
During this period horse races were organised by the British nobility as part of their leisure activities whilst recuperating in the town of Epsom. The first record of a race taking place on the Epsom commons dates back to 1661. Even then the fact that the race took place on a piece of land facilitating free entry to all racegoers made it a popular racing venue amongst all classes.
The race that would make the Epsom Downs racecourse famous was launched in 1780 when Edward Smith Stanley, the 12th Earl of Derby, organised a race for 3 year old fillies which would be contested by his own horses. This race marked the beginning of the Epsom Oaks, one of the first Classics. A year later the Epsom Derby was run for the first time.
Both the Derby and the Oaks took their names from the Earl of Derby – the Oaks was named after his country estate, whilst the Derby took the nobleman’s own title. These races were grew rapidly in popularity as horse racing fans from across England would flock to watch the open race on the lands between Epsom and Langley Vale.
For much of Epsom Downs racecourse history the races there drew the biggest crowds of any horserace in Britain. This was partially due to the proximity of the racecourse to London, but the draw for the crowds remained the free access to the races. Although one had to pay for a seat on the grandstand it remained possible to watch the race from the side of the track.
More recently a spate of renovations have taken place at Epsom Racecourse. Although entry to the large mound in the middle of the racetrack is still free it is difficult in practice to get a good view of the track without making use of the spectator facilities.
In 2005 a major £23 million redevelopment project was launched bringing in a new era in Epsom Downs racecourse history. These changes will see the old Epsom grandstand replaced entirely with a modern structure that will provide seating for over 10,000 race-goers, banqueting facilities and restaurants.
