Royal Epsom is one of the United Kingdom’s biggest horse racing festivals and the spectator experience it offers is one of the best in the world.

The action has been held at Epsom Downs racecourse since 1780 from which it regularly welcomed working-class Londoners. However, in almost 250 years since it has evolved to offer a level of luxury and style which suits the most affluent members of society.

Here is the greatest way to experience all that the racecourse with royal roots has to offer this year. From which event to attend, to which enclosure to enjoy the action for a combination of stylish dress and proximity to the track.

Derby Day offers the greatest atmosphere

The single most significant day on Epsom’s racing calendar each year is Derby Day. This is when the Epsom Derby takes place – a flat race which entices entries from all around the world to compete.

This year there is a clear outstanding favourite to claim the greatest Epsom honour of 2024. Paddy’s racing odds offer City of Troy as a 2/1 frontrunner, after a perfect debut year in 2023, with three wins on the board.

The number one favourite comes from the United States, and another top competitor according to today’s horse racing odds is Ancient Wisdom from France who is offered at 6/1 to win the Derby.

The event may take place on British soil but it is a race with huge international competition and importance.

Regardless of the eventual winner, the race always promises two and a half minutes of close-fought racing which sometimes ends with incredibly dramatic finishes.

The ideal way to enjoy that short period of action is with a perfect view of the entire course. That can be obtained by purchasing entry into the most luxurious enclosure at Epsom – the Queen Elizabeth II stand.

Queen Elizabeth II Stand offers style and luxury

The Queen Elizabeth II stand is the ideal location to combine luxury with being a horse racing spectator.

It is the only stand at Epsom Downs which has a strict dress code. This is a smart dress with a hat or fascinator – meaning anybody who purchases a ticket in the section is surrounded by like-minded people looking to enjoy the action with a strong sense of style and elegance.

In terms of viewing points, it also offers the greatest experience as it allows fans to get the greatest possible aesthetics of the ongoing action on the track.

Numerous high-level stands are available which overlook the finishing straight, and fans can also opt to watch the race get underway from the extensive steppings available on the lower level.

A ticket for the stand also includes access to the Parade Ring where horses can be greeted before they set off in pursuit of victory, as well as the Winner’s Circle afterwards, which can allow spectators to be part of the celebrations.

Ultimately the greatest experience at Epsom can be achieved by attending the hugely anticipated Derby Day with a ticket for the Queen Elizabeth II Stand.

This combination would provide the greatest possible views and access to the track, and the requirement for smart attire would ensure it makes for a glamorous experience all around.