All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, Royal Ascot has long been a cornerstone of the British social season. A showcase of the world’s finest thoroughbreds, it celebrates heritage, elegance, and pageantry. Held annually at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, the event enjoys close ties with the Royal Family, who have maintained a prominent presence since the 18th century. Queen Elizabeth II was a passionate supporter, attending almost every year during her reign.
What Makes Royal Ascot Unique
Royal Ascot is defined by its rituals and refinements. The Royal Enclosure is the most prestigious area, accessible by invitation or sponsorship. Entry is often granted through military affiliations or longstanding membership ties. Each day begins with the Royal Procession at precisely 2 pm, where the Royal Family arrives in horse-drawn carriages, a tradition started by King George IV in 1825.
The racing itself is world-class, with eight Group One races spread across the five-day meet. Notable contests include the Ascot Gold Cup and the Queen Anne Stakes, attracting elite horses, jockeys, and trainers from across the globe.
When and Where
Royal Ascot takes place every June at Ascot Racecourse, situated in the heart of the Berkshire countryside. Each day offers its own allure:
- Tuesday: Opening day, featuring the Queen Anne Stakes.
- Wednesday: Home of the Prince of Wales’s Stakes.
- Thursday: Ladies’ Day, when fashion takes centre stage and the Gold Cup is contested.
- Friday: Features the Coronation Stakes.
- Saturday: A more relaxed affair, popular with younger guests.
Dress Code Decoded
Attention to dress is paramount at Royal Ascot, with each enclosure setting its own standards.
- Royal Enclosure: Women must wear formal daywear with hemlines below the knee and hats with a solid base of at least four inches. Men are expected to wear black, grey or navy morning dress, complete with waistcoat, tie, and top hat.
- Queen Anne Enclosure: While still formal, there is slightly more flexibility. Fascinators are allowed, and men may opt for a suit with a shirt and tie.
- Village Enclosure: Smart outfits are recommended, with a nod to creativity in millinery and colour.
Fashion at Ascot is a spectacle in its own right. Designers often debut bespoke looks, and milliners receive their moment in the spotlight.
Dining and Hospitality
Gastronomy at Royal Ascot rivals the racing. Michelin-starred chefs curate fine dining menus within exclusive venues such as The Panoramic Restaurant and The Parade Ring. Signature experiences include champagne receptions, afternoon teas served on fine china, and seasonal British produce prepared to the highest standard.
Hospitality packages offer varying levels of indulgence. The Windsor Enclosure features lively lawn bars and gourmet picnics, while private boxes provide personal stewards, handcrafted cocktails, and front-row views of the final furlong.
Tickets, Access and VIP Experiences
Tickets for Royal Ascot range from general admission to opulent VIP experiences. Entry to the Royal Enclosure requires sponsorship and is often secured months in advance.
For those seeking ultimate luxury, bespoke experiences include helicopter transfers, exclusive car park picnics, and access to private betting salons with expert advisers. Early booking is essential, especially for premium dining and private enclosures.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Plan outfits in advance to meet dress code requirements.
- Arrive early to enjoy the Royal Procession and settle into your enclosure.
- Learn the racing form or consult an on-site tipster for insight into the day’s runners.
- Bring a pashmina or tailored jacket, as the weather can shift quickly.
Etiquette matters. Mobile phones are discouraged in the Royal Enclosure, and photos should be taken discreetly.
Notable Attendees and Celebrities
Over the years, Royal Ascot has attracted an impressive guest list. Members of the Royal Family attend daily, often accompanied by global dignitaries. Famous faces such as David Beckham, Cara Delevingne, and Dame Helen Mirren have been spotted trackside. Their sartorial choices frequently set trends for the season.
Sustainability and Social Impact
Royal Ascot has implemented several initiatives to lessen its environmental impact. Efforts include eliminating single-use plastics and sourcing local ingredients for its menus. Partnerships with local charities also form part of its annual legacy, supporting education and community development in the Berkshire area.
Why Royal Ascot Remains the Gold Standard
Royal Ascot is more than a sporting event. It represents a rare convergence of tradition, fashion, sport, and society. Whether you’re sipping champagne in a private box or cheering from the lawn, it offers a distinctly British expression of luxury and cultural pride, one that continues to enchant year after year.
