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Royal Ascot
Ascot, United Kingdom 17–21 June
A day at the races is an excuse for everyone, prince or postman, to get dressed up and have a flutter. And Royal Ascot, a five-day event with 30 races and a total prize pot of £3.5million, is the place to do it. Impeccable racing credentials aside, this 300-year-old institution is one of England’s best-loved fashion shows and, for many, an opportunity to dazzle under the scrutiny of the world’s press. Hats are the thing. The royals are visibly in attendance every year: Ascot has traditionally been a gathering place for the upper classes, with Eton and Sandhurst both nearby. That said, facilities for greater numbers means that 21st-century spectators are getting a fairer share of the ceremony and grandeur than ever before.
Highlights
Ladies’ Day on the Thursday is the time to spot the most stylish and bizarre outfits. Race-wise, the Gold Cup, also on Thursday, is the most prestigious; the Golden Jubilee Stakes is a biggie owing to it £350,000 prize fund. The Royal Procession takes place before racing at 14h each day.
In The Know
Head Count
Around 80,000 people each day.
Meeting Point
There are 38 numbered rendezvous points (indicated by big green signs) around the general enclosure.
Packing Tips
Look at yourself in the mirror before you leave the house and, if you have even an inkling that you’re underdressed, then you are. Ladies should go for smart summer dresses and a showy hat. Gentlemen, a suit, tie and a pair of cufflinks to catch the sun. And don’t forget the binoculars, so you can pretend you’re actually interested in the gee-gees.
Dos and don'ts
• Befriend a Royal Enclosure badge-holder; you’ll need one to nominate your application for entry to next year’s event.
• Check your racecard for owners’ names; the Queen usually runs some of her best nags at Ascot.
• Avoid the St James Enclosure, regularly offered in hospitality packages but not an official facility, nor within the racecourse.
• Don’t head to the Royal Enclosure in a miniskirt, or anything else that might be deemed incorrect. You’ll be turned away.
Need To Know
Children
Parking
Disability Access
Food & Drink
Sleep
VIP
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