Things to check out in Epsom on an Open Day

Once you’ve found everything you need on campus, head into Epsom town to get an idea of what’s going on.

23 Sep 2019

Rosebery Park

Directly opposite the UCA Epsom Campus is this picturesque 12-acre park, perfect for hanging out with friends or enjoying a picnic. With a vast duck pond bordered with willows and flowers, Rosebery Park is a bright community hub and a great place to start your tour of the town.

Mounthill Gardens

If you want the green space without the buzz and bustle, Mounthill Gardens, across from Rosebery Park, is the perfect place to wind down. Peaceful with plenty of shade and benches, it’s ideal for a relaxing stroll.

The Ashley Centre

Epsom’s main shopping destination, there’s something for everyone with over 60 shops, from high street favourites to beloved indies such as Hatty’s Sweet Shop and Quest. It’s also home to a massive House of Fraser department store and a plethora of cafés. From clothes and jewellery to tech and toys, there’s nothing you can’t find at The Ashley Centre. If you choose to study at UCA Epsom, you’ll probably be spending a lot of time here — so it’s a good idea to check it out!

Food and Drink

When it comes to food and drink, there’s an abundance of choices in Epsom. If you want a quick bite there’s Greggs, McDonalds, and Pret A Manger, to name a few. There are boutique coffee shops, pubs, and independent restaurants — including student favourites Bamboo Basket, specialising in Chinese dumplings and The Faraday, offering 25p wings every Wednesday. There are street food kiosks too, found in Epsom Square, ranging from Thai to vegan falafel.

Epsom Market

A market is the beating heart of a town, and Epsom is no different. There’s a traditional market every Thursday and Saturday (think fresh bread, local eggs, fashion), and the Surrey Farmers’ Market on the first Sunday of the month. Even when the market isn’t on, in the Market Place you can catch buskers, visit the shops, or just take in the town’s character.

Epsom Clock Tower

A local landmark, the 40-feet-high Clock Tower can be found in the Market Place watching steadily over the town. The Clock Tower as it stands today was built in 1847, but one has stood on its site since at least 1711. It takes centre stage in most of Epsom’s events, processions, and celebrations.

Epsom Playhouse

The Playhouse is Epsom’s theatre and music venue. Check their website to see what’s on or who’s playing when you visit.

Epsom Downs Racecourse

Home of The Derby, Epsom Downs is a Grade 1 racecourse with racing here dating back to at least 1661. Set in the sweeping North Downs, it’s easy to see why this historic, prestigious racecourse is a favourite with the Queen, who has attended The Derby almost every year. It’s free to see the racecourse and watch any races from the Epsom Downs.

Epsom Common Nature Reserve

Walking through this Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) you might be lucky enough to spot roe deer, herons, or rare purple emperor butterflies. You can find walking maps of the Common online for free at epsom-ewell.gov.uk.

Book onto one of our upcoming Open Days.