Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Epsom has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Epsom.
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Sights in Epsom
Epsom is a historic market town in Surrey, England, with a lively high street and a rich heritage. The town has a strong connection to horse racing, and is home to the iconic Epsom Derby, which takes place annually at Epsom Racecourse.
Epsom’s history goes back centuries, and the town has many interesting sights and landmarks to explore. These include Epsom Clock Tower, Epsom Guildhall, and the Market House. For those interested in architecture, Epsom town centre has a number of wellpreserved Victorian and Edwardian buildings.
The town centre is also home to Epsom Playhouse, a popular theatre and arts venue. Epsom Library is another popular destination, and houses a fascinating collection of local history archives.
Outside of the town centre, Epsom Downs Racecourse is a mustvisit for horse racing fans. The racecourse is set in beautiful surroundings, and hosts the annual Epsom Derby, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.
For nature lovers, Epsom Common is a large open space with plenty of opportunity for walking, cycling, and picnicking.Nearby Epsom Downs offers more extensive walking trails, as well as stunning views across Greater London.
Epsom is a great destination for a day trip or a longer stay. With its rich history, beautiful setting, and array of things to see and do, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
History of Epsom
Epsom is a town in Surrey, England, 13.7 miles southwest of London. The name of Epsom is recorded in AngloSaxon documents from the 8th century as forms including Ebbasham, Evesham and the more common Ebba’s ham. It was named after a spring in the town which, according to local tradition, was sacred to a Saxon goddess. Epsom is mentioned as a burbium (suburb) of London in a writ of Edward the Confessor in 1062, and as a manor held by Gilbert de Otene in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records land in the manor of “Makin” to be worth 15 shillings.
It appears as a market town in the 12th century and was first mentioned by name in 1133 when Henry I granted a charter to the town. An early market was established by 1247.
In medieval times, Epsom was often associated with horse racing and jousting. The first racecourse was laid out here in 1488 on land belonging to Lord Topham and the Manor of Epsom Derbyshire]] was established. This became the famous Derby, a horse race which has been run annually on the first Saturday in May since 1780.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) were increasingly used as a cure for ill health and the town became known as a spa town. Epsom’s fortunes changed with the discovery of mineral waters at nearby Banstead in 1618 and it became a fashionable place to take the waters, with visitors including Samuel Pepys and Charles II.
Epsom was transferred from the Diocese of Winchester to that of Rochester in 1877. The town continued to grow in the 19th century, with the opening of the London & South Western Railway station in 1847 and the construction of Epsom College in 1853.
Epsom continued to prosper in the 20th century, with the opening of Epsom General Hospital in 1924 and the construction of Epsom Town Hall in 1933. The second half of the century saw a decline in Epsom’s traditional industries, however, with the closure of the railway works in 1963 and the last coal mine in 1968.
Today, Epsom is a thriving market town with a thriving economy, a vibrant nightlife and a rich history.
Vacation in Epsom
Epsom is a town located in Surrey, England. The town is best known for hosting the annual Epsom Derby horse racing event. But Epsom has much more to offer visitors than just horse racing.
Those interested in outdoor activities will find plenty to do in Epsom. The town is located close to several large parks, including Epsom Common and Ashtead Common. These parks offer walking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for bird watching and picnicking. Golfers will find several courses to choose from in and around Epsom.
For those looking for a more sedate vacation, Epsom offers several interesting historical sites. The town was once home to a large spa, which attracted visitors from all over Britain (and even some from Europe) in search of the healing waters. Today, the site of the old spa is home to a museum about its history. Epsom also has several old churches worth visiting, as well as a number of Georgian mansions.
No matter what your interests, Epsom makes an ideal vacation destination. With its mix of historical sites, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in this charming English town.
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