Epsom’s reputation as a spa grew from a water source discovered by herdsman Henry Wicker. The mineral waters attracted visitors, and Samuel Pepys recorded a visit to the well in his diary. Racing developed within that wider culture of leisure and social gatherings around the town. The connection helps explain why the Downs became a meeting place well before the formal racing festivals and grandstands familiar to visitors today.
During the English Civil War, a gathering described as a horse race on the Downs provided cover for a royalist assembly. Racing was subsequently prohibited under the Commonwealth, before returning after the Restoration. Charles II attended a recorded meeting at Epsom in 1661. Regular spring and autumn meetings were established by 1730.
Epsom Common. Explore the nature reserve associated with the discovery of Epsom salts, with green space away from the racecourse.
The Horton. Look up the programme at the local arts centre for an exhibition or performance to complement a day outdoors.
Epsom has 35,850 residents.
