Open Top Bus Experience

Lonsdale Enclosure

Introduction

Open-Top buses are an integral and hugely traditional part of The Derby Festival experience, but are they suitable for corporate entertaining? If the weather is kind then they can provide a great fun experience, however, if the British weather is cold and wet you might find yourself wishing you had booked into a covered hospitality facility, with access to private toilet facilities.

Location

The position of your bus at the racecourse is of great importance. The Lonsdale Enclosure, inside the course, is the most sought-after location for Open-Top buses, you will be opposite the Queen’s Stand and close to the Winning Post, on the rails. Only Open-Top buses are permitted into the Lonsdale Enclosure. Next to the Lonsdale Enclosure is the Walton Enclosure, which overlooks the finishing straight, where you will share the area with both single and double-decker coaches. Opposite the Walton Enclosure is the Upper Tattenham Enclosure, which also accommodates buses and coaches.

You can either elect to position the bus at the course as soon as the gates open, to get an advantageous location in your pre-booked enclosure, or you can use the bus for transport to & from the racecourse. Travelling to Epsom on an open-top bus can be a hugely enjoyable experience. Please note that if the bus is pre-parked it might prove very difficult for your guests to locate you on arrival.

Facility/Décor

Open-Top buses are invariably antiques and prone to breakdowns, however, they are fabulously atmospheric and reminders of a bygone age. Space is limited of course for setting up food and drink stations and depending on the weather, most organisers set up trestle tables and a Gazebo outside the bus. These old buses have no modern conveniences such as toilets or air-conditioning.

Private Buses

Private buses are available for 20-30 guests, and some operators allow smaller bookings of 2 guests or more.

Admission

Your admission badge provides access into the Enclosure you have pre-booked. You will not have access to the main Grandstand or Parade Ring; however, you will enjoy elevated panoramic views from the top of the bus.

Catering

Catering consists of cold gourmet buffet lunch as well as Afternoon Tea later in the day.

Drinks

Most operators include a Pimms Reception and a complimentary bar of beers, wines, selected spirits, and soft drinks. Please note that Champagne will be an extra charge.

Service

Service is left to the waiting-staff, there is not a hostess service.

Entertainment

A racing tipster is not included.

Audio-Visual

There are no TV monitors.

Car Parking

Car Park passes are not included.

Extras

Racecards are not included but there are Tote betting facilities available close by.