The Durdans was designed by George Devey for Lord Rosebery in 1881 and is the oldest racing yard standing in Epsom. Lord Rosebery was a well known horse breeder and racehorse owner. The Durdans Stables have been described as being the 'finest in the country' (The Victorian Dictionary compiled by Lee Jackson). The grade 2 listed sand school is a wonderful example of the arts and crafts movement and has been described by Caroline Baldock as the 'star in crown of this delightful equestrian establishment'.
Racing and winning was part of family life for Lord Rosebery and his wife Hannah Rothschild at Epsom. Amoungst the most famous horses ever to have been present on the yard were Ladas, Sir Visto and Cicero, who won the Epsom Derby in 1894, 1895 ad 1905 respectively.
Cicero, Sir Visto and Ladas are buried in the grounds of the Durdans along with Amato, Derby winner in 1838 who belonged to the former owner of the Durdans, Sir Gilbert Heathcote. The graveyard has been recently restored, so is worth a visit!
Rosebery stated “I feel guilty winning the Derby for the third time as most owners do not get the chance to win once”. After this tremendous achievement the Cicero yard at The Durdans Stables became famous and tributes were created around Epsom, varying from naming public houses to a horse trough carrying the winner’s name which can now be found just outside the Rubbing House garden on the Downs.
Historically there was a driveway lined by lime trees and gated by black wrought iron gates leading up to the Durdans house, which is situated on the hill adjacent to the Stables. During the First World War, Lord Roseberry is said to have locked these gates stating that he would only open them again once his son had returned from the war. His son never returned and hence the gates have never been opened since. This limetree avenue and the locked gates are clearly visible from Chalk Lane.