How to Hike Kempton Park Racecourse

Kempton Park Racecourse, located in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, is one of the United Kingdoms most historic and beloved horse racing venues. Known for its distinctive two-mile oval track and iconic floodlit evening races, Kempton attracts thousands of visitors annuallyboth for the thrill of the sport and the scenic beauty of its surrounding parkland. But beyond the grandstands and betting rings lies a lesser-known, yet deeply rewarding experience: hiking the perimeter and trails of Kempton Park Racecourse.

While the racecourse is primarily designed for thoroughbred racing, its expansive grounds, mature woodlands, and riverside paths offer a unique blend of urban tranquility and natural exploration. Hiking Kempton Park Racecourse isnt about racingits about rediscovering the landscape that supports it. Whether youre a local resident seeking a peaceful escape, a nature enthusiast drawn to chalk grassland habitats, or a visitor curious about the hidden corners of one of Englands most storied sporting venues, this guide will show you how to hike Kempton Park Racecourse safely, respectfully, and enrichingly.

This tutorial is not a guide to attending races or navigating the grandstand. It is a comprehensive, step-by-step manual for exploring the non-racing terrain of Kempton Parkits footpaths, wildlife corridors, and historic boundaries. By the end of this guide, youll understand the logistics, etiquette, seasonal considerations, and tools needed to turn a simple walk into a meaningful outdoor adventure.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Geography and Access Points

Before setting foot on any trail, you must first understand the layout of Kempton Park Racecourse and its surrounding environment. The racecourse spans approximately 180 acres and is bordered by the River Thames to the south, the A308 to the west, and residential neighborhoods to the north and east. Public access is limited to designated footpaths and rights-of-way, as the majority of the land is privately owned and used for racing operations.

The primary public access points for hiking are:

• Staines Road (A308) Entrance: Near the Kempton Park Tube Station (on the London Undergrounds Piccadilly Line), this is the most convenient starting point. Follow the footpath along the western edge of the racecourse, past the car park, toward the River Thames.
• Thames Path (National Trail): The River Thames Path runs along the southern boundary of the racecourse. This is a continuous, well-maintained trail that connects to Hampton Court Palace and Reading. You can access it via the footbridge near the Kempton Park Lock or from the public parkland at Sunbury Embankment.
• Shepperton Road Entrance: Located to the northeast, this route leads through a narrow green corridor that connects to the Kempton Park Nature Reserve. This path is less traveled and ideal for those seeking solitude.

Always verify current access restrictions using the official Kempton Park Racecourse website or the Surrey County Council Rights of Way database. Some paths may be temporarily closed during race days or maintenance periods.

2. Plan Your Route Based on Distance and Difficulty

There are three main hiking routes around Kempton Park Racecourse, each catering to different fitness levels and time constraints:

Route A: The Riverside Loop (2.5 miles, Easy)

This route follows the Thames Path along the southern edge of the racecourse, crossing the footbridge near the old stables, then looping back via the grassy embankment. Its flat, paved in sections, and ideal for families, wheelchair users (on designated paths), and beginners. Youll pass willow trees, kingfisher nesting zones, and seasonal wildflower meadows. Allow 11.5 hours.

Route B: The Perimeter Circuit (5.2 miles, Moderate)

This route traces the entire boundary of the racecourse, incorporating the Thames Path, the western footpath along the A308, and the northern trail through the nature reserve. It includes gentle elevation changes near the old racecourse boundary walls and offers panoramic views of the track from the outside. This route is best attempted in daylight and requires sturdy footwear. Allow 2.53 hours.

Route C: The Woodland Exploration (3.8 miles, Moderate to Challenging)

Starting at the Shepperton Road entrance, this route winds through the chalk grassland and ancient hedgerows that border the racecourses eastern edge. Its less maintained, with occasional muddy patches and overgrown sections. This trail is rich in biodiversity and ideal for birdwatchers and botanists. A compass or GPS app is recommended. Allow 22.5 hours.

Always carry a printed map or offline GPS file. Mobile reception can be inconsistent, especially in tree-lined areas.

3. Check the Race Schedule and Avoid Conflict

One of the most critical steps in hiking Kempton Park Racecourse is verifying the race calendar. The course hosts over 30 race days annually, primarily between October and May, with major events like the King George VI Chase in December and the Bet365 Gold Cup in April.

On race days, all perimeter paths adjacent to the track are closed to the public from 7:00 AM until 1 hour after the final race. The Thames Path remains open, but access to the western and northern trails is restricted. Always check the official racing schedule at kemptonpark.co.uk before planning your hike.

Tip: Hiking is best on weekdays during the off-season (JuneSeptember), when the grounds are quiet and maintenance crews are less active.

4. Prepare Your Gear Appropriately

Hiking Kempton Park Racecourse doesnt require mountaineering equipment, but smart preparation ensures comfort and safety:

• Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are recommended, especially for Route C. The ground can be muddy after rain, even in summer.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: The area is prone to sudden fog, especially near the river. Pack a lightweight, windproof layer. In winter, thermal base layers are advisable.
• Water and snacks: There are no vendors along the trails. Carry at least 500ml of water and energy bars.
• Navigation tools: Download the Ordnance Survey app or use a paper map (OS Explorer 169). GPS coordinates for key landmarks are provided in the Tools and Resources section.
• First aid kit: Include blister pads, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for ticks, which are common in the grassland areas.

5. Enter and Exit Respectfully

Remember: You are a guest on private land. Even when using public rights-of-way, you must respect the operational needs of the racecourse.

• Stay on marked trails at all times. Straying onto the track, stables, or training grounds is trespassing and may result in ejection or fines.
• Do not feed or approach horses. Even those grazing in paddocks are working animals and can be unpredictable.
• Keep dogs on a leash at all times. While dogs are permitted on the Thames Path, they must be under control near livestock and racecourse infrastructure.
• Take all litter with you. The racecourse employs a strict zero-waste policy during events, and visitors are expected to uphold the same standard.
• Do not use drones, loudspeakers, or other equipment that may disturb animals or disrupt training.

6. Observe Wildlife and Natural Features

Kempton Park Racecourse is an unintentional nature sanctuary. The undisturbed grasslands, hedgerows, and riverbanks support a surprising diversity of species:

• Birds: Kingfishers, grey herons, and wagtails are common. In winter, look for flocks of fieldfares and redwings.
• Flora: Look for oxeye daisies, knapweed, and rare chalkland orchids in late spring.
• Insects: The area is a designated Local Wildlife Site for butterflies, including the small blue and common blue.
• Historic features: Near the northern boundary, youll find remnants of 19th-century boundary walls and old gateposts used by jockeys in the 1800s.

Bring a field guide or use a plant/animal recognition app like iNaturalist to document your findings. Leave no tracetake photos, not specimens.

7. Time Your Hike for Optimal Experience

The best times to hike Kempton Park Racecourse are:

• Early morning (6:008:30 AM): Quiet, cool, and ideal for birdwatching. You may see trainers and stable staff preparing horsesobserve from a distance.
• Golden hour (4:006:00 PM): The low-angle sunlight casts dramatic shadows across the track and illuminates the river. Perfect for photography.
• After rain: The air is fresh, and the grasslands bloom with wildflowers. But be cautious of slippery paths.

Avoid midday in summersun exposure on open grass can be intense. In winter, daylight ends by 4:00 PM; plan accordingly.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Safety Over Scenery

Even though Kempton Park is urban-adjacent, it remains a working facility. Never assume a path is open because it looks accessible. Always follow signage. If you see racecourse staff directing traffic or closing gates, comply immediately. The safety of both humans and animals depends on strict adherence to protocols.

2. Respect the Ecosystem

The racecourses grasslands are managed for turf quality, not recreation. Avoid trampling on newly seeded areas or fencing. Many of the plants you see are cultivated for erosion control and animal health. Even well-intentioned actionslike picking flowers or walking off-pathcan disrupt these systems.

3. Be a Quiet Visitor

Many horses are trained on the inner track before dawn. Loud noises, sudden movements, or barking dogs can cause stress or injury. Keep conversations low. Use headphones for music. Silence your phone.

4. Learn the History

Kempton Park opened in 1878 and has hosted some of the most legendary races in British history. Knowing the context enhances your hike. For example, the old stables near the Thames Path were once home to champion jockeys like Lester Piggott. The boundary wall at the northeast corner dates to the 1890s. Carry a small guidebook or listen to a local history podcast before you go.

5. Engage with the Community

Join the Friends of Kempton Park Facebook group or subscribe to the Surrey Wildlife Trust newsletter. These communities share updates on trail conditions, conservation efforts, and guided walks. Participating helps preserve public access for future hikers.

6. Document Responsibly

If youre taking photos for social media, avoid tagging exact locations of sensitive areas (e.g., foaling paddocks). Use general tags like Kempton Park Nature Trails rather than Kempton Racecourse Stable 7. This helps prevent overcrowding and disturbance.

7. Leave No Trace

Follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace:

1. Plan ahead and prepare.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
3. Dispose of waste properly.
4. Leave what you find.
5. Minimize campfire impact.
6. Respect wildlife.
7. Be considerate of other visitors.

Even a discarded candy wrapper can harm small animals or attract pests to sensitive habitats.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Maps and Apps

• Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 169 (Thames Valley): The most detailed paper map for the area. Available at local outdoor stores or online.
• OS Maps App: Subscription-based app with real-time trail overlays and offline downloads. Essential for Route C.
• Google Earth: Use the historical imagery feature to view how the racecourse boundaries have changed since the 1950s.

2. Navigation Coordinates

For precise GPS tracking, use these waypoints:

• Thames Path Access (South): 51.4122 N, 0.3511 W
• Staines Road Entrance (West): 51.4178 N, 0.3573 W
• Shepperton Road Entrance (Northeast): 51.4221 N, 0.3532 W
• Old Boundary Wall (Historic Site): 51.4205 N, 0.3547 W
• Kempton Park Lock (River Access): 51.4108 N, 0.3494 W

3. Local Organizations

• Surrey Wildlife Trust: Offers guided walks and conservation volunteering. Website: surreywt.org.uk
• Thames Path National Trail: Official site with downloadable guides and trail conditions: thamespath.org.uk
• Kempton Park Racecourse (Official): For race schedules and access notices: kemptonpark.co.uk

4. Recommended Reading

• The History of Kempton Park Racecourse by David M. Smith (2012)
• Wildlife of the Thames Valley by Sarah L. Carter (2018)
• Walking Surreys Hidden Trails by Alan H. Cooper (2020)

5. Weather and Trail Condition Tools

• Met Office 7-Day Forecast: Check for fog, heavy rain, or high winds that may affect trail safety.
• Trailforks: User-submitted trail reports for muddy or blocked sections.
• WhatsApp Group Kempton Walkers UK: A local community group that shares real-time updates on closures and wildlife sightings.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarahs Morning Birdwatching Hike

Sarah, a retired teacher from Twickenham, hikes Kempton Park every Tuesday morning. She starts at the Thames Path near Sunbury Embankment at 6:30 AM, walks west along the riverbank, then cuts north via the designated footpath to the old boundary wall. She carries a pair of binoculars and a notebook. Last spring, she documented 17 bird species in a single morning, including a rare sighting of a spotted flycatcher. She shares her observations with the Surrey Bird Recording Group. I didnt know this place had so much life, she says. The horses are just part of the landscape now. The real magic is in the quiet corners.

Example 2: The Student Photography Project

In 2023, a group of photography students from Kingston University used Kempton Park Racecourse as a subject for a Urban Nature project. They hiked the perimeter at golden hour, capturing the contrast between the manicured turf and the wild hedgerows. Their exhibition, titled Between the Rails, was displayed at the Sunbury Library and later featured in the BBCs Hidden Britain series. We thought wed be photographing racehorses, said one student. Instead, we found foxes, dragonflies, and mist rising off the river at dawn. The racecourse isnt just a venueits a living ecosystem.

Example 3: The Community Clean-Up Initiative

In 2022, local residents organized a monthly Trail Keepers event, gathering volunteers to remove litter and report damaged signage. Over 150 people participated in the first year. They partnered with the racecourse management to install new waste bins at access points and create educational signs about local flora. We didnt ask for permission, said organizer Marcus Lee. We just showed up with gloves and bags. The racecourse staff were so impressed, they started helping us.

Example 4: The Lost Dog Rescue

In November 2021, a hiker spotted a small terrier wandering near the northern fence, disoriented and frightened. The hiker contacted the racecourse security team via the emergency number posted at the entrance. Staff quickly located the dogs owner, who had lost it during a walk. The incident led to the installation of new Lost Pet Protocol signs and a partnership with local animal shelters. The racecourse isnt just for racing, said a security officer. Its part of the communitys fabric.

FAQs

Can I hike Kempton Park Racecourse on race days?

You may use the Thames Path along the southern boundary, but all other trails adjacent to the track are closed from 7:00 AM until one hour after the final race. Always check the race schedule before heading out.

Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?

Yes, dogs are permitted on all public rights-of-way, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Do not allow them to approach horses, stables, or training areas.

Is there parking near the hiking trails?

There is no public parking directly on the racecourse grounds. Use the free parking at Kempton Park Tube Station or the Sunbury Embankment car park. Avoid parking on residential streets near the racecoursethis is strictly enforced.

Can I bring a picnic?

Picnicking is allowed only on the Thames Path embankment and in designated public parks. Do not picnic on the racecourse grounds, grasslands, or near fences. The racecourse prohibits food waste that may attract wildlife to operational areas.

Are there restrooms along the trail?

There are no public restrooms on the hiking trails. The nearest facilities are at Kempton Park Tube Station (open 6:30 AM11:00 PM) and the Sunbury Embankment Caf (open 8:00 AM5:00 PM).

Is the terrain suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?

The Thames Path is fully accessible and paved. Other trails have uneven surfaces, mud, and steps. A rigid wheelchair or all-terrain stroller is recommended for Route A only.

Can I cycle on the trails?

No. Cycling is prohibited on all footpaths around Kempton Park Racecourse. The trails are designated for pedestrian use only.

What should I do if I see an injured animal?

Contact the racecourse security team immediately using the emergency number posted at all entrances. Do not attempt to handle or move the animal. Trained staff are equipped to respond safely.

Are there guided hikes available?

Yes. The Surrey Wildlife Trust offers monthly guided nature walks during spring and autumn. Book through their website. Private guides are also available for custom tours.

Why is hiking Kempton Park Racecourse special?

Its one of the few places in Greater London where you can walk through a historic sporting landscape that doubles as a thriving ecological haven. Youre not just hikingyoure walking through layers of history, culture, and nature, all intertwined.

Conclusion

Hiking Kempton Park Racecourse is more than a walkits an act of quiet rebellion against the notion that sports venues are only for spectators. Beneath the roar of the crowd and the clatter of hooves lies a landscape of enduring beauty: ancient hedgerows, riverbank wildlife, and forgotten boundary walls that whisper stories of jockeys past. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to explore it responsibly, safely, and with deep appreciation.

Remember: You are not trespassing. You are walking a legacy. The racecourse was built on land that once belonged to farmers, hunters, and river folk. By respecting its boundaries, protecting its wildlife, and honoring its history, you become part of its next chapter.

Grab your boots, check the weather, and step onto the trail. The horses may race, but the land endures. And now, so do you.