Often imitated but never bettered, the Betfred Derby is the world’s greatest race and forms the centrepiece of the two-day Betfred Derby Festival at the iconic Epsom Downs Racecourse.
Racing
Run over a mile and a half with a total prize fund of £2 million, the Betfred Derby is the most valuable race run in Britain by far with an outstanding heritage dating all the way back to 1780.
Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien has made the race his own this century, with the outstanding Galileo handing him his first success in 2001. His latest triumph – a record-extending 11th – came courtesy of Lambourn in 2025.
Fashion
Style is also a strong theme too.
While the Queen Elizabeth II Stand sees top hat and tails on Derby Day, racegoers can wear whatever they choose in other areas. There is, however, every incentive for racegoers to make the very best effort with the return of The Style Awards in Partnership with Debenhams on Ladies Day.
History
Inaugurated in 1780 by the 12th Earl of Derby and Sir Charles Bunbury, the iconic Epsom Derby began with a legendary coin toss to name the race.
Held annually at Epsom Downs Racecourse in Surrey, this elite 12 furlong flat race is the most prestigious of Britain’s five Classics and the inspiration for over 140 “derby” races globally, including the Kentucky Derby.
The festival’s rich, 240-year heritage has cemented it as a cornerstone of British sporting culture.
Food & Drink
The Betfred Derby Festival truly offers something for all tastes and price points, whether it be jellied eels and fast food on The Hill to fine dining from the likes of Chez Roux in the Queen Elizabeth II Stand.
The Hill, which in 2026 will feature the exciting new DerbyFest zone – is unique in offering completely free entrance and parking.
And for those who want to let their hair down an exciting new offering this year is O Beach Ibiza in Galileo’s, bringing in a party for every music taste and mood; feel-good house, dancefloor anthems and everything in between.
Travel
To get to The Betfred Derby Festival at Epsom Downs Racecourse, the most convenient public transport is by train, with regular services from London Waterloo and London Victoria to Epsom Station, where a dedicated race-day shuttle bus connects to the track.
Alternatively, Tattenham Corner and Epsom Downs stations offer short walks. If you choose to drive, free parking is typically available on-site, though you should follow the event’s AA yellow signage to avoid traffic.
Tickets
Head to www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/epsom/ for full details.
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