Royal Ascot is Britain’s most prestigious horse race and sees some of the world’s finest racehorses compete for huge cash prizes. Her Majesty The Queen has attended every year throughout her reign, and the Royal Procession that starts the day is truly a special moment to witness. As with any traditional British event, great occasion comes hand-in-hand with ceremony and strict etiquettes to follow. With five days of socialising there’s a lot to learn, but not to fear, we’ve created some top tips to help you keep ahead of the race and looking your best...
Dress to impress: Royal Ascot dress code
An event proudly steeped in tradition of course means that the dress code is no laughing matter. This does vary depending on the area of the course you will be visiting, however, there are some base dress rules that must be followed throughout the entire racecourse.
Gentlemen’s dress code for Royal Ascot
Men must wear a black or grey morning dress with a waistcoat and a top hat throughout the Royal Enclosure, except in a private box. Smart suits are required in the Queen Anne Enclosure, and it absolutely goes without saying that jeans, sportswear and shorts are not permitted anywhere at Royal Ascot.
Ladies’ dress code for Royal Ascot
The fashion at Ascot is world renowned and is just as much the talk of the event as the races. Expect to see ladies in a stunning array of classic formal dress in many beautiful colours, though, as with gentlemen’s dress, there are some rules.
Ladies’ shoulders and midriff should not be on display at Ascot, and shorts are duly not permitted. Strapless or sheer dresses and tops are not permitted, and trousers and jumpsuits must be full length. Branded clothing is also not allowed, nor is fancy dress and novelty clothing.
If you are lucky enough to have secured a place in the Royal Enclosure, expect an even more formal affair with rules stipulating that dresses must fall just above the knee or longer, and that dress straps should have a thickness of at least one inch.
How-to's on hats
Ladies must wear a hat in all enclosures but the Windsor Enclosure. Recent rules have also stated that all headwear, especially that worn inside the Royal Enclosure, must have a diameter of at least four inches so that headpieces aren’t worn in place of a hat. However, this doesn't mean that one has to scrimp on style, the hats at Royal Ascot sometimes turn more heads than the races.
Dining at Royal Ascot
Dining at Ascot is an occasion in itself and is a delight to participate in whether you’re enjoying one of it’s many restaurants or tucking into a picnic.
Dine in a panoramic restaurant
Choose from one of 15 restaurants ranging from the Royal Enclosure to The Villiers Club: Ascot’s prime social spot. From unique views of the track and panoramic views to Michelin-starred food in beautifully dressed surroundings, there’s something a little bit special about dining at the racecourse. Make sure to book your table in advance though as some restaurants are fully booked weeks before the event.
Pack a picnic
Nothing says British quite like a summer picnic, but throw Ascot into the mix and you’ve got yourself a rather splendid day out indeed! Ascot welcomes racegoers to bring their own picnics in specially designated areas, so pack those strawberries, prepare the cucumber sandwiches and chill the champagne, Ascot here we come! For those wanting an experience with added flair, purchase a picnic from Ascot and settle down in the Windsor and Heath Enclosures. Informal picnics are also permitted in the car parks and coach parks.
Sip on some bubbles
In the true celebratory spirit of Ascot, attendees heading to the Windsor and Heath Enclosures (only), are allowed to bring one bottle of sparkling wine or champagne to accompany their picnic, we’ll drink to that! Though do note, no other type of alcohol is permitted into the racecourse grounds, it must be bought from the bar.
Ascot's Village Enclosure
July 2017 saw Ascot Racecourse open the first new enclosure at the Royal Meeting in more than 100 years. The ‘Village Enclosure’ provides a different perspective of the track with views looking back towards the final Furlong with Ascot’s iconic Grandstand as a backdrop. The enclosure has a style and tempo all of its own, with a ‘pop-up’ summer theme that boasts boutique dining experiences, innovative bars, and live music throughout the day and into the evening.