The latest rankings from property experts Garrington placed Epsom second in their nationwide list of most desirable places to live, just behind Redbourn in Hertfordshire and ahead of Whitburn in Tyne and Wear.
Epsom combines the best of both worlds, offering peaceful suburban living with easy access to city life.
Surrounded by scenic landscapes and brimming with local attractions, it’s the ideal spot for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle without compromising on convenience.
Here are five reasons why Epsom truly stands out.
Epsom Derby
Epsom is perhaps best known for the Epsom Derby, one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world.
Held annually on Epsom Downs Racecourse, the Derby has been a major fixture of the British sporting calendar for the last 245 years, drawing thousands of spectators and even members of the Royal Family each year.
Epsom comes alive during Derby weekend, with Ladies’ Day taking place just the day before.
There are festivities, food stalls, and entertainment, creating a lively atmosphere both on and off the track.
On Derby Day in 1913, suffragette Emily Wilding Davison ran onto the track in an attempt to stop King George V’s horse as a bold protest for women’s rights.
She was struck by the horse and later died from her injuries.
A statue of her was installed by the Epsom Clocktower.
Green spaces
Epsom scored highly for its abundance of green spaces.
The town is home to the expansive Epsom Downs, a stunning stretch of chalk grassland that not only boasts sweeping views of the London skyline but also hosts the world-famous Epsom Derby at Epsom Racecourse.
For families and nature lovers, there’s also Horton Country Park, a large local nature reserve ideal for dog walks, cycling, and picnics.
Nonsuch Park, just a short drive or cycle away, offers beautiful historic grounds and woodlands that were once part of Henry VIII’s Nonsuch Palace estate.
With easy access to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Epsom is the perfect place for weekend rambles, hikes, or simply unwinding in nature, all without leaving the borough.
Other parks in Epsom include Rosebery Park, Alexander Recreation Ground, and Court Recreation Ground.
Epsom Market
Epsom Market has been running for 340 years and continues to be a vibrant part of local life.
The market operates several days a week, with traditional market days on Thursdays and Saturdays, offering everything from fresh produce and artisan bread to flowers, clothing, and street food.
There’s also a regular Epsom Farmers’ Market on Sundays, where local producers sell everything from organic vegetables to homemade jams and cheeses.
The market squares often host seasonal events and community celebrations, such as the annual Christmas tree switch-on and performances by local schoolchildren.
For residents and visitors alike, Epsom Market is more than just a place to shop.
It’s a place to meet, eat, and enjoy the general charm of the town.
Transport Links
Epsom is served by Epsom station, which offers regular direct services to London Waterloo, London Victoria, and London Bridge, making it an ideal location for commuters looking for a balance between city life and suburban calm.
The journey into central London takes around 35 to 40 minutes, making it easy for residents to access the capital for work or leisure.
In addition to the mainline station, Epsom Downs and Tattenham Corner stations provide further options for local travel.
For drivers, Epsom is well-placed with access to the A3, A24, and M25, opening up routes to London, the south coast, and beyond.
Local bus services also connect the town to surrounding areas, including Kingston, Sutton, Leatherhead, Croydon, and Banstead,
The town is also well-served by cycle routes and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to get around without a car.
Features
One last reason as to why Epsom is one of the best places to live is the number of amenities in such a small town.
The town centre is home to a good mix of high street names, independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and the Ashley Centre, which was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1984.
The Epsom Square area has become a popular social hub, featuring restaurants, a gym, a library, the new Picturehouse Cinema, and Metropolis Epsom, the food hall that replaced Epsom Social earlier this year.
For fitness lovers, there are several gyms and leisure centres, including Rainbow Leisure Centre, which has a swimming pool, spa, and sports facilities.
The town is home to the Odeon, just a few minutes away from the Picturehouse, as well as the Epsom Playhouse theatre.
There are various pubs and bars around, like the Assembly Rooms Wetherspoon Pub and the Marquis of Granby just opposite.
