Royal Ascot, a celebrated horse-racing competition, was founded back in 1711 by Queen Anne, and it is still London's most spectacular sporting event, attended annually by the Royal Family. Both the racers and spectators follow the dress code, impressing each other with exquisite hats and other accessories. In addition to glamour, Royal Ascot features top-quality racing during four days in mid-June. The event welcomes around 300,000 visitors over five days.
Royal Procession
Every day of the races starts with the Royal Procession, when The King, The Queen, and other members of the Royal Family arrive at the racetrack in special horse-drawn Royal Landaus, with the National Anthem playing and the Royal Standard raising. The royals are watching the races from the Royal Enclosure. This tradition was initiated by King George IV in 1825.
Races Schedule
Royal Ascot races start on Tuesday, with the Queen Anne Stakes. They are followed by the King Charles III Stakes and the St James' Palace Stakes. On Wednesday, the public can see Group 1 Prince of Wales's Stakes. On Thursday, viewers can watch one of the main highlights of the competition – the Gold Cup, a race of two miles and four furlongs. One of the world's most elite long-distance races, the Gold Cup starts at 4:25 pm. On Friday, the public can see Coronation Stakes and the Commonwealth Cup. On the last day of the races. the highlight is the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes. Royal Eascot ends with The Queen Alexandra Stakes. During these five days, 500 horses make an appearance to compete for over £7 million in prizes. The first race of the day starts at 2:30 pm, and the last race of the day starts at 6:15 pm.
Royal Ascot Enclosures and Dress Code
Royal Ascot is famous for its well-dressed public. This is achieved thanks to rules and traditions. The Royal Enclosure has the most strict dress code, with men wearing only black, grey, or navy and a top hat, while women have to wear formal daywear and a hat with a diameter of no less than 4 inches.
The Queen Anne Enclosure is the premier public seating area, with access to the parade ring and grandstand. Queen Anne Enclosure ticket holders can also participate in singalongs around the bandstand. Queen Anne Enclosure dress code is quite formal, obliging ladies to wear a hat or fascinator at all times. Gentlemen must wear a suit, a tie with a shirt, and socks covering the ankle.
The Village Enclosure dress code is similar but a bit more relaxed for men who can wear jackets with full-length trousers. The Windsor Enclosure is the most relaxed seating area, as there is no dress code. Nevertheless, guests are recommended to wear smart daywear.
Tickets
There are various types of tickets to the Royal Ascots. The Royal Enclosure tickets are designed exclusively for members. Queen Anne Enclosure tickets, with extended access to the grandstand and entertainment such as military bands and daily after-racing sing-a-longs, start at £90. Tickets at Windsor Enclosure that do not require following a formal dress code start at £49. Tickets sell out fast!
