A Guide To Attending Royal Ascot Races Week 20-24 June 2023

The Royal Ascot Races are the jewel in the crown of the British flat racing calendar, and are a memorable day out for fans of sport, fashion, and food alike. It’s a unique opportunity to experience our rich cultural and sporting heritage, whatever your knowledge of horse racing. Here’s a guide to this year’s Royal Ascot Week from 20-24 June.

Background

The Ascot Racecourse where the event is held is located in the village of Ascot, Berkshire, a convenient destination for Londoners. The racecourse was founded by Queen Anne in 1711, and since then it has enjoyed the patronage of the British Royal Family. 

The late Queen Elizabeth II was one of its most enthusiastic supporters, as well as the owner and breeder of a string of successful racehorses. The names of the races during Royal Ascot week are themed around the Royals, such as the King George V Stakes and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes. 

The annual race meeting in June is one of the most prestigious in the world, attracting top-class runners from both home and overseas. Tickets are in high demand, especially for Thursday and Saturday, so it is advisable to book early. 

The Enclosures

It’s important to book tickets for the enclosure that suits your requirements for the event. There are four enclosures; the Royal Enclosure, The Queen Anne Enclosure, the Village Enclosure, and the Windsor Enclosure. 

The Royal Enclosure is exclusive and membership based by invitation, so is one for well-connected race-goers only. The Queen Anne Enclosure is less exclusive, but it does have a formal dress code. Ladies must wear a hat, fascinator or headpiece, and their dress must be on the conservative side. Gents must wear a suit and tie.

The Queen Anne Enclosure has excellent views of the Parade Ring and the rest of the racecourse. Spectators will also have a full view of the Royal Procession, which takes place at 2pm on all five race days. Members of the Royal Family travel in Ascot Landaus drawn by a team of Windsor grey horses along the straight mile to the parade ring. 

Until recently of course, the late Queen Elizabeth II was a fixture of this tradition, and it is not known which members of the Royal family will attend this year. 

The Village Enclosure was launched in 2017, and is more relaxed than the previous enclosures, although visitors are encouraged to dress formally. The central location offers good views of the course, and there is access to a wide range of hospitality venues, with live music and bars.

The Windsor Enclosure is the most relaxed and vibrant of the enclosures. And is a great choice for families. Picnics are allowed on the lawn and there are plenty of food options, including pop-up street food vendors. There is no formal dress code, although visitors are encouraged to wear smart casual attire. 

If you are interested in booking coach hire for Royal Ascot Week, please contact us today.