For some, Royal Ascot is an opportunity to view some of the finest racing in the world, with horses from all over the globe competing. For others, it's a summer social event like Henley, Wimbledon and Goodwood. Whatever the reasons, Ascot is an exciting spectacle for more than 300,000 racegoers.
The fashion
The Royal Procession
The Royal Enclosure
The Heath Enclosure, the Silver Ring and the Grandstand
The tickets
Insider tips
The facts
This year Royal Ascot takes place from Tuesday 17 June through Saturday 21 June. For the second time in history, Ascot has been extended this year from four days to five. The first time it was extended was in 2002, to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee. (Organisers say the extension is because last year's experiment was so successful; veteran race goers say the extra money raised was irresistible.) While the Queen plans to attend every day, there will be no Royal Procession on the Saturday. After this year, the course is undergoing major renovation, which may require Royal Ascot to be held at different locations in upcoming years.
The fashion
While racing is the main event, fashion runs a close second. Seeing and being seen are a big part of Royal Ascot, and lots of attendees doll up for the occasion. This year, style watchers are predicting lots of pretty, feminine looks that evoke a retro '50s feel - think twinsets, ballerina skirts, ribbons, bows, lace and satin in ice cream colours. On the other end of the fashion spectrum are stark black and white designs for dresses and hats.
The Royal Procession
The Royal Procession takes place at approximately 2pm on all five days. Her Majesty the Queen and members of the Royal Family will parade down the length of the straight mile course in horse-drawn carriages, then proceed through the Winner's Enclosure, before stopping at the entrance to the Royal Box.
The Royal Enclosure
The crazy couture hats, the posh couples and the royals that are featured in newspapers and magazines every year are photographed in this area, overlooking the finish line. Men must wear black or grey morning suits with top hats, and women must wear formal day dress with a hat that covers the crown of the head and costs a fortune. Ok, well maybe not that last part. The dress code is strictly enforced; Rod Stewart was reportedly turned away in 2002. Military dress is acceptable, as are national costumes of foreign countries.
Entry to this area is restricted to those who have either attended the Royal Enclosure previously or have been nominated by an existing badge holder who has attended at least four times. So if you haven't already been, start networking early.
The Heath Enclosure, the Silver Ring and the Grandstand
The most affordable tickets are for the Heath Enclosure, the area in the middle of the racecourse, opposite the Grandstand. Tickets for this area are purchased on the day. The next level is the Silver Ring, which sits next to the Grandstand area and for which there is no dress code. The next level of ticket is the Grandstand, next to the Royal Enclosure. Here, men are encouraged to wear a jacket and tie or a suit. Women are allowed to wear trouser suits and hats are not required, although many do wear them, anyway. Shorts, jeans and trainers are not allowed, and most attendees take the opportunity to dress up for the occasion.
The tickets
Tickets for Royal Ascot go on sale the first work day in January, and Ladies Day (Thursday) sells out quickly for all advance-ticketing areas (Royal Enclosure, Grandstand and Silver Ring). Tickets for other days are easier to obtain and range in price from just over £10 to £52, except for the Heath Enclosure, which costs £4 Even in the week of Ascot, Grandstand, Silver Ring and Heath Enclosure tickets tend to be quite available. Depending on how late you purchase tickets, you may either buy them in advance or at the door (call the racecourse for details). You can also purchase them online at www.ascot.co.uk or call 01344 876 876.
- Gates open at 10:30. Race veterans recommend arriving early to get the whole experience
- Take public transport when possible. Parking is tight and traffic snarls up early. The Ascot train station is a quick 10-minute walk from the course, with directions clearly marked
- If you're staying at a hotel, book one within walking distance, or convenient for public transportation, to and from the course
- Re-entry to the area isn't permitted, so don't plan on leaving anything in your car to get later. There are cloakroom areas available
- Ascot races continue even if it rains, so bring an umbrella or enough money to buy one at the Ascot Shop