This Sunday people will walk 20 miles from central London to Epsom Downs Racecourse in homage to poorer Londoners who used to walk to the Derby in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Traditionally, the expanse in the middle of Epsom Downs, known as ‘The Hill’ was free for them to enjoy the race, as it remains to this day.
In 2009 John Sandys, founder of The Derby Walk, thought it was time to bring this tradition back, and so began the 20 mile walk for charity.
The walk starts at Tattersall’s Tavern in Knightsbridge and ends at Epsom Downs Racecourse.
Participants pay a small entry fee, which goes to charity. There are food and drink points along the walk and Epsom Downs Racecourse provide food at the end of the walk to celebrate the achievement.
Simon Durrant, General Manager at Epsom Downs Racecourse, said: “We’re excited to welcome this year’s hikers, the Derby Walk is a great tradition and we are delighted to be supporting John Sandys and his team in keeping this wonderful tradition alive.”
Tickets to join the walk on May 20 start at £15 per person, or £25 with £10 donated to the Riding for the Disabled Association.
More information and the sign-up page can be found here: www.epsomderby.co.uk/the-derby-walk/
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