The Unofficial Guide to Epsom Downs
[History] [Present day] [Location][Beware of the gate!] HistoryEpsom Downs is known throughout the world as the racecourse where the Epsom Derby is run. Less well known is the model flying strip, situated within the racecourse, near the car park at the start of Tattenham Corner. Model aircraft have been flown here for many decades. The first models would have been free-flight, later control-line became popular and then radio controlled models started to appear. Free-flight models are still seen on the Downs from time to time however control-line models are no longer permitted under the bye-laws. Present dayModel flying on Epsom Downs has always been permitted subject to "the consent of the Conservators." From 1st January 2006 consent is given only to members of Epsom Downs Model Aircraft Club. Check their website for more information.
LocationIn December 2003 the flying strip was moved approximately 100 metres to the west from its previous position to place it further from the footpath across the Downs. To find the precise location of the flying strip follow this link. (This should open a new browser window containing an interactive streetmap of the UK with an arrow indicating the flying strip.) Beware of the gate!Since summer 2000 vehicular access to the inside of
the racecourse has been restricted, controlled by gates which
are shut and locked at 9pm. during the summer and at 5pm
during the winter.
The original intention was apparently that the 5pm/9pm change
would coincide with the change between British Summer Time (BST) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
However the actual Traffic Order under which the gate is closed states the following;
The Council of the Borough of Epsom and Ewell pursuant to arrangements made under Section
101 of the Local Government Act 1972 with Surrey County Council in exercise of their powers under
Sl(l) and (2) and 2(1) to (3) and 4(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended and of all
other powers enabling them in that behalf hereby make the following order:
For much of the year this is not a problem, however during most of February, all of March and all
but the last few days of October the gate closes before sunset (a full hour and a half at the end of March.)
This means that flying has to finish around 4:50pm with a mad dash to get out before the gate closes.
Alternatively cars can be parked in an alternative car park which then requires an additional quarter mile
walk in each direction carrying models, flight boxes etc. |
