Epsom Downs Racecourse is about 27 miles from Heathrow. A taxi is the most direct option, typically 40 to 50 minutes depending on traffic on the M25 and A24, while the train needs at least one change and is realistically a two-hour-plus trip. There's no motorway-fast, single-change route between the two, so build in extra time on raceday. Distance and station details checked against the Jockey Club's own Epsom Downs travel page, October 2026.
Where is Epsom Downs Racecourse?
The racecourse address is Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5LQ. By road it's just off Junction 9 of the M25 and a few minutes from Epsom town centre on the B290 Epsom Downs Road. The Jockey Club's own site states Heathrow is approximately 27 miles away (Gatwick, by comparison, is closer at around 18.5 miles).
Heathrow to Epsom Downs: options compared
| Option | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi / pre-booked car | ~40-50 min | Fastest and simplest; fare varies with traffic, raceday demand and operator, so get a quote before you travel |
| Train + local transfer | 1h45-2h30+ | At least one change via central London; no direct route |
| Helicopter | — | Possible by prior arrangement only; contact the racecourse directly |
Taxi: the practical option
A taxi or pre-booked private hire car is the simplest way to cover the 27 miles, usually 40 to 50 minutes outside rush hour via the M25 to Junction 9. Raceday traffic around Epsom can add real delay, especially for Derby Day and other major fixtures, so if you're on a tight schedule, pre-book rather than relying on finding a car on the day, and ask your operator for a current quote rather than assuming a fixed price, since fares for this route vary with demand. For comparable pre-booked fares over a similar distance from Heathrow, see our Guildford transfer guide.
By train: no direct route
There's no direct train from Heathrow to Epsom. The realistic route involves getting into central London first (by Elizabeth line or Heathrow Express to Paddington, or the Piccadilly line), then a connecting train from a central London terminus such as Victoria or Clapham Junction to one of three stations near the racecourse. Expect at least one change and a journey of roughly two hours or more once connections are factored in; check National Rail or Trainline on the day for live times and the fastest combination, since it varies by time of day and which London terminus you route through.
The Jockey Club names three stations for the racecourse itself:
- Epsom station - about a 10-minute taxi or bus ride to the racecourse, with a Go-Ahead London shuttle bus laid on from the station on racedays.
- Tattenham Corner station - roughly a half-mile walk to the racecourse, the closest of the three on foot.
- Epsom Downs station - about a 1-mile walk to the racecourse.
On a major raceday, Tattenham Corner or Epsom Downs stations are usually the more convenient choice if you're coming by rail at all, since they avoid a final taxi or bus leg.
Parking and arrival by car
If you're driving yourself from the airport rather than taking a taxi, use postcode KT18 5LQ. General raceday parking is signposted locally; owners, trainers and Blue Badge holders have separate dedicated arrangements, and Blue Badge parking needs to be arranged in advance directly with the racecourse. Electric car charging points are not available on racedays.
Local taxis around Epsom
If you're arriving by train and want a cab for the final leg rather than the shuttle bus or a walk, the racecourse lists two local operators: Clocktower Cars (01372 725 000) and Station Cars Epsom (01372 610777).
FAQs
How far is Epsom Downs Racecourse from Heathrow?
About 27 miles, according to the Jockey Club's own travel information. By comparison, Gatwick is closer at around 18.5 miles.
Is there a direct train from Heathrow to Epsom?
No. You need to change at least once, typically via central London (Paddington or Victoria) before a connecting service to Epsom, Epsom Downs or Tattenham Corner station. Budget around two hours or more door-to-door.
Which station is closest to Epsom Downs Racecourse?
Tattenham Corner, about a half-mile walk. Epsom Downs station is about a mile's walk, and Epsom station is roughly a 10-minute taxi, bus or shuttle ride from the racecourse.
How long does a taxi take from Heathrow to Epsom Downs?
Typically 40 to 50 minutes via the M25 to Junction 9, longer in raceday traffic. Get a current quote from your operator before you travel, since fares vary with demand.
Can I land a helicopter at Epsom Downs?
Yes, subject to prior approval from the racecourse. Contact the Jockey Club directly to arrange this well ahead of racing.
What is the postcode for Epsom Downs Racecourse?
KT18 5LQ. It's just off Junction 9 of the M25, close to Epsom town centre.