Riding the Downs
Epsom Downs is best known as the home of the Derby, one of the world’s most famous horse races, but the open downland around the racecourse also provides excellent easy cycling. The circuit follows quiet roads and paths around the perimeter of the downs, with wide open views in every direction. On clear days, the London skyline is visible to the north, while the Surrey Hills roll away to the south.
The terrain is gently undulating chalk downland, never steep but with enough contour to keep things interesting. The roads are lightly trafficked and well surfaced, and the atmosphere is open and breezy — a contrast to the enclosed woodland riding found elsewhere in Surrey. Wild flowers carpet the grassland in summer, and skylarks sing overhead.
A Ride for Everyone
This is an ideal route for beginners, families and anyone wanting a relaxed ride in pleasant surroundings. The circuit is short enough to complete in an hour or two, with plenty of options to extend via the lanes to Headley, Walton on the Hill or Tadworth. The grandstand area has a café and public facilities, and there is free parking on non-race days.
From Leatherhead, riders can reach the downs via the quiet road through Ashtead, adding around 10 kilometres to the circuit. Alternatively, start from Epsom town centre and climb the gentle gradient of Epsom Downs Road. The route is fully tarmac and suitable for any type of bicycle, including children’s bikes and e-bikes. Outside of race meetings and training mornings, the area is quiet and peaceful.
