It’s one of the most famous events in horse racing, and a highlight of British society’s summer season. The five-day event is quite the spectacle, and if you haven’t been before, why not get tickets this year? Stay in our Staines hotel, and you’ll be within easy reach of enjoying the thrill of the races. Here’s an insight into what Royal Ascot is all about, and how to make the most of your visit:
What to wear:
From the stands, you’ll be watching out to see what the winning horse is wearing. But at Ascot you can be certain that people will be watching out to see what you’re wearing too. Ladies’ Day, on Thursday 20th June, is the day when you must be in your finest attire, as there are even prizes to be won for the best dressed. Women are expected to wear hats and modest sundresses, while men should be in shirt and tie at the very least, and morning dress with a top hat at best.
The enclosures:
When buying tickets, you need to decide which enclosure you want to be in. The Royal Enclosure is invitation only, and particularly strict on dress code, but the Grandstand offers an equally good view. The Silver Ring has a less formal atmosphere, and if you’re looking for some fun, this is where the bustle happens. The cheapest tickets you can buy will get you onto the Heath, but that doesn’t include getting into the rest of the event, and it is worth spending a little for the full experience.
The races:
It’s almost possible to forget that the main part of Ascot is actually the horse racing, but don’t let yourself miss the key races because you were having too much fun at the bar. A little bit of betting is a must, to get you really invested in the races, even if it’s just an inter-family bet with matchsticks. The Diamond Jubilee Stakes on Saturday is the (joint) most-valuable race in Britain, and if you’re only going to concentrate on one race, it should absolutely be this one.
Other than races:
Each day there is a Royal Procession, including a train of horse-drawn carriages, one of which carries the Royal Family. Station yourself around the Parade Ring for the best view. When you get peckish, any of the enclosures have a wide variety of dining options. Why not book to have afternoon tea at the Brigadier Gerard Deli, or organize to have a special Ascot picnic hamper ready for you when you get there? There are plenty of bars to get yourself anything from magnums of champagne to regular pints, and there’s always the traditional raucous singing around the bandstand at the end of every day.
