萨里郡拥有丰富的旅游资源，吉尔福德附近的小镇也往往都非常宁静安详，适合大家在周末规划一场短途旅行。今天介绍的小镇叫Epsom，是UCA Epsom校区的所在地，也是一座邻近伦敦的优美小镇。它位于萨里郡东北部，是一个以其丰富的历史和赛马文化著称的小镇。Epsom最为人知的当属其每年举办的世界顶级赛马赛事——Epsom德比大赛（The Derby）。这个传统可以追溯到18世纪，吸引了全球赛马爱好者前来观赏。赛马场所在的Epsom Downs不仅是赛事的中心，还为游客提供了宽阔的草地和开阔的视野。除了赛马，Epsom因其在17世纪发现的矿泉而一度成为疗养胜地，这些矿泉被认为具有治疗作用，吸引了许多人前来体验。
Epsom的镇中心充满了活力，各种高街商店、独立精品店、餐厅和咖啡馆为居民和游客提供了多样的选择。文化活动方面，Epsom Playhouse是镇上的文化地标，剧院定期举办戏剧、音乐会和喜剧演出，为镇上增添了不少艺术气息。
Epsom的历史遗迹之一是著名的钟楼（Clock Tower）。这座建筑位于镇中心，是Epsom的地标之一，建于1847年，钟楼不仅见证了镇上的发展，还成为当地居民日常生活中不可或缺的一部分。钟楼周围是繁华的商业区，附近有许多购物和用餐场所，是当地人和游客聚集的热门地点。站在钟楼前，您可以感受到这个小镇独特的历史氛围与现代生活的交融。
在钟楼附近，我们常常可以看见人们漫步在鹅卵石铺成的小路上，或者是在旁边的咖啡馆坐着和朋友聊天。Waitrose，玛莎百货等高端百货公司就在咫尺之遥。
Epsom不仅有深厚的历史文化，周边的自然环境也十分迷人。Horton Country Park和Epsom Common是镇上居民休闲散步的理想之地，大片的绿地为人们提供了放松和享受大自然的机会。而对于喜欢徒步和骑行的人来说，Epsom更是通向萨里郡其他自然景区的入口，是探索周边乡村的理想起点。
此外，Epsom的交通也十分便捷。镇上有直达伦敦的火车线路，乘坐火车大约40分钟即可抵达伦敦市中心。这种优越的地理位置使Epsom成为那些希望享受乡村生活却又希望保持与大城市联系的居民的理想选择。
Epsom镇融合了自然风光、历史文化和现代生活，既有令人兴奋的赛事活动，也有适合宁静散步的自然景观，是一个充满活力的小镇。无论您是赛马爱好者、历史文化探索者，还是想寻找一个远离城市喧嚣的安静休闲之地，Epsom都能为大家提供丰富的体验。
Surrey is rich in tourist resources, and the small towns around Guildford are often peaceful, perfect for a weekend getaway. Today, we introduce Epsom, home to UCA’s Epsom campus, a charming town near London known for its history and horse racing culture. Epsom’s fame is largely due to the prestigious Epsom Derby, dating back to the 18th century, drawing racing enthusiasts from all over the world. Epsom Downs, the racecourse, offers expansive greenery and stunning views, making it not only a race venue but also a scenic spot.
In addition to horse racing, Epsom gained popularity in the 17th century for its healing mineral springs, which attracted many visitors seeking wellness treatments. The town centre is vibrant, with a variety of high street shops, independent boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, offering plenty of options for residents and visitors alike.
A notable historical landmark is Epsom’s Clock Tower, built in 1847. It serves as a local icon and a gathering point for the community. The area around the Clock Tower is bustling with shops and dining options, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The tower itself stands as a symbol of Epsom’s rich past while blending seamlessly into its modern landscape.
Near Epsom’s Clock Tower, it’s common to see people strolling along the cobblestone paths or relaxing at nearby cafés, chatting with friends. Waitrose and Marks & Spencer are conveniently close by, offering premium shopping experiences just steps away. This lively yet quaint area perfectly captures the town’s blend of historic charm and modern convenience, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The Clock Tower and its surroundings provide a pleasant, leisurely atmosphere for anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful day out.
Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Horton Country Park and Epsom Common, perfect for relaxing walks amidst the lush greenery. For those who enjoy hiking or cycling, Epsom serves as a gateway to explore Surrey’s countryside and other natural attractions.
Epsom is also well-connected, with direct trains to London taking around 40 minutes. This convenient location makes it ideal for those who seek a rural lifestyle while maintaining close ties to the city.
Epsom strikes a balance between natural beauty, historical charm, and modern life. Whether you’re a fan of horse racing, keen on history and culture, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat from urban life, Epsom has much to offer.
