Epsom

About

Epsom is an historic market town found just 15 miles south west of London. It is a perfect destination to explore the history and heritage of this gorgeous part of Surrey.

Mentions of Epsom (or Ebbesham as it was then) date back to the 13^th Century - there are even finds of Anglo Saxon jewellery dating back to the 7^th century on display in the British Museum! So there’s a rich and varied history to explore!

The town is renowned the world over as the place where Epsom Salts were discovered and home to one of the world's oldest and most famous horse races, the Epsom Derby.

Epsom became an exclusive and popular spa town and leisure destination in the Georgian era. The year 1847 saw the building of Epsom’s striking clocktower, which is located in the heart of the bustling Market Place.

The Market Place plays host to farmers' markets, vegan food fairs, a regular Thursday weekly market and antiques and collectables fairs.

Historic buildings such as The Assembly Rooms (built c1690) surround Epsom's Market Place. Mrs Beeton, author of the famous Book of Household Management, lived here too - in fact, her former home is now a cookware shop!

The suffragette Emily Davison drew the eyes of the world to Epsom in 1913 when she was killed by stepping in front of the King’s horse in The Derby. In early 2021, a new statue of Emily Davison will be unveiled in Epsom’s Market Place.

Epsom is located on the edge of the North Downs hills, surrounded by green open spaces and is perfect for cycling or walking. Rosebery Park in the heart of the town is a peaceful haven to relax and take a breather or, for the more active, head up to Epsom Downs, with its expansive views of the London skyline.

Whether you are choosing to use Epsom as a base to explore picturesque villages in the Surrey Hills or just visiting for the day, a warm welcome awaits you.

DISCOVER:

• How the discovery of Epsom Salts helped spa towns boom in Britain

• Why the Epsom Derby is one of the world’s most famous horse races