Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot is one of the most distinguished and celebrated events in the British social and sporting calendar, blending tradition, pageantry, and high-quality horse racing. Held annually in June at the Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England, the event dates back to 1711 when it was founded by Queen Anne. Today, it continues to enjoy royal patronage, with members of the British Royal Family attending each day of the five-day meeting.
Royal Ascot is renowned not only for its sporting excellence, featuring some of the highest-caliber flat racing in the world, but also for its sartorial elegance. The event is famous for its strict dress code, particularly in the Royal Enclosure, where men don top hats and tails, and women wear elaborate hats and sophisticated outfits, making fashion a central aspect of the occasion.
The meeting comprises 35 races, including eight Group One races, which are the highest level of flat racing. Highlight races include the Gold Cup, the Queen Anne Stakes, the Prince of Wales’s Stakes, and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes, attracting the best horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the globe. The Gold Cup, held on the meeting’s third day, which is traditionally known as Ladies’ Day, is particularly prestigious and is the centerpiece of the week’s racing.
Royal Ascot is not just a sporting event; it’s a significant social occasion, offering a variety of fine dining and hospitality options, from gourmet picnics to Michelin-starred menus. The event’s atmosphere is one of celebration and jubilation, with the Royal Procession each day—a carriage parade featuring the Queen and other members of the Royal Family—being a highlight that underscores the historical and ceremonial importance of Royal Ascot.
Beyond the pageantry and fashion, Royal Ascot plays a crucial role in the British horse racing industry, contributing significantly to the sport’s development and prestige. It also has a substantial economic impact, with millions wagered on the races and considerable benefits to the local and national economy.
Royal Ascot stands as a symbol of Britain’s rich heritage and enduring fascination with horse racing, offering a unique blend of sport, tradition, and fashion that attracts visitors from all over the world. It remains a quintessential British experience, embodying the elegance and grandeur of the sport of kings.