The highlight of the UK flat racing season, Royal Ascot blends world-class horse racing with pageantry, fashion, and timeless style.
An iconic event on both the sporting and social calendar, Royal Ascot draws over 300,000 racegoers to Ascot Racecourse each June, along with a global audience watching the finest horses, jockeys, and trainers compete at the highest level.
Dating back to the time of Queen Anne in 1711, Royal Ascot has grown into a five-day celebration of tradition and excellence. The Royal Enclosure — home to royalty, celebrities, and society’s elite — remains at the heart of the spectacle.
Until her passing in 2022, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II attended every Royal Meeting during her reign. Today, His Majesty King Charles III continues the long-standing tradition of the daily Royal Procession at 2:00 PM, which marks the formal opening of each race day.
World-Class Racing on a Global Stage
Royal Ascot is widely regarded as the most prestigious flat racing meeting in the world — a true showcase of equine excellence, tradition, and international appeal.
Each day of this five-day meeting features at least one feature race and a total of 35 races across the week, including no fewer than 17 Group contests. These include elite Group 1 races such as the Queen Anne Stakes, Gold Cup, St James’s Palace Stakes, and the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes — renamed in 2023 in honour of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
With a total prize fund exceeding £10 million, and no race worth less than £90,000, Royal Ascot consistently attracts the finest thoroughbreds from across the globe, along with top-tier jockeys, trainers, and owners. Millions of fans follow the action live via television and digital platforms, making it a major highlight of the global flat racing calendar.
Royal Ascot 2025: The Five-Day Racing Schedule
Each day of Royal Ascot offers its own unique highlights — from historic Group 1 contests to up-and-coming talent in competitive handicaps, you’re sure of a thrilling week of world-class racing at Royal Ascot. Check out our Royal Ascot Tips in our Betting & Tipping section. Here’s what to expect across the week:
Royal Ascot Day 1: Tuesday – Opening Day
The festival begins with a flourish, featuring three Group 1 races. The Queen Anne Stakes kicks off proceedings — famously won by Frankel in 2012 — followed by the lightning-fast King’s Stand Stakes over five furlongs. The day concludes with the St James’s Palace Stakes for top three-year-old milers, often attracting 2,000 Guineas winners from the UK and Ireland.
Day 2: Wednesday – International Showdowns
Day Two features the prestigious Group 1 Prince of Wales’s Stakes, run over 1 mile 2 furlongs and open to four-year-olds and older. This race frequently attracts top-level international contenders and carries one of the meeting’s richest purses. A strong supporting card includes the Queen Mary Stakes and Duke of Cambridge Stakes.
Day 3: Thursday – Ladies’ Day & The Gold Cup
Thursday is Ladies Day, and traditionally the most stylish day of Royal Ascot week. Thursday’s racing centres around the historic Gold Cup — Britain’s premier long-distance flat race, run over 2 miles 4 furlongs. Legendary stayer Yeats famously won the Gold Cup race four times, and it continues to draw elite stayers from across Europe and beyond.
Royal Ascot Day 4: Friday – The Fillies’ Stage
Day Four is headlined by the Coronation Stakes, a Group 1 mile contest for three-year-old fillies. It’s often the proving ground for 1,000 Guineas winners from Britain, Ireland, and France. The day also features exciting juvenile races, with future stars beginning to emerge.
Royal Ascot Day 5: Saturday – Festival Finale
The final day closes in style with the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes (formerly the Diamond Jubilee), a five-furlong Group 1 sprint open to older horses. It often sees rematches from Tuesday’s King’s Stand Stakes. International stars like Choisir and Black Caviar have etched their names into this race’s storied history.
Where we be without the horses? Frankel won the Queen Anne Stakes at Royal Ascot in 2012. Find out more about past famous Royal Ascot winners & losers in our Racing Personalities section.
There are Many Ways to Pick a Horse to Bet On — Some Go With Gut Instinct, Serious Punters Study the Form!
There are as many ways to pick a horse as there are hats in the Royal Enclosure. Some punters study form religiously, while others simply choose a name that resonates, a lucky number, or the horse wearing their favourite colour. Or you could study the form on the Racecard. And if you’re at the races in person, don’t be surprised to hear someone say, “It winked at me in the paddock!”
Whether you go with gut instinct or prefer a more data-driven approach, understanding the Racecard is the first step toward placing a smart, or more confident bet. The Racecard contains all the key information on all the runners and riders in each race, including jockey colours, the latest betting odds, expert analysis, Timeform ratings and tips from Racing TV experts. It can also give you some quick and simple clues to help you pick a winner—once you know what to look for.
How to Read a Racecard:
Not sure what all the numbers on the racecard mean? Here’s a simple guide:
- Horse’s Name: The runner you’re backing.
- Trainer & Jockey: Shown with initials; experienced trainers and top jockeys can make a real difference.
- Form Figures: A quick snapshot of the horse’s recent performance (e.g. “321” means 3rd, 2nd, and 1st in their last three races).
- OR (Official Rating): Determines the weight a horse carries in a handicap — the higher the rating, the better the horse (in theory).
- Topspeed: A performance figure based on how fast the horse ran in previous races, relative to standard times.
- RPR (Racing Post Rating): A proprietary rating assessing the horse’s ability under today’s conditions.
- Weight: The amount the horse carries — includes jockey and equipment.
- Age: Can influence a horse’s maturity and stamina.
- Tips: Number of national newspaper tipsters backing this horse.
- Symbols like:
- C = Course winner
- D = Distance winner
- CD = Course & Distance winner
- BF = Beaten favourite last time out
Betting Kiosks & On-Course Betting
As Official Bookmaker at Ascot, Betfred bought the TOTE in 2011, and operates the two on site TOTE betting kiosks within the Grandstand. Royal Ascot also features on-course bookmakers (those iconic rails of bookmakers with boards and odds) where you can:
- Bet in cash or sometimes by card
- Place win, place, or each-way bets
- Compare odds across different bookies — they’re not all the same!
Online Betting
Many racegoers now place bets via their mobile before or even during the races. Online racecards for Royal Ascot from major websites like Racing Post, Ladbrokes, Coral, and most betting apps, are updated in real time with live odds, tips, and expert commentary, making them perfect for those betting from home or watching the coverage on TV.
While there are dozens of online betting sites, some are better for horseracing betting. Equally, you won’t find any one bookie or online betting site offering the best or same odds on every horse running in every race. That’s why we recommend having accounts with at least a couple of them.
All of the online betting sites listed below / right offer competitive horse racing odds. They also have some great horse racing offers available, especially during the time of the major festivals such as Royal Ascot. Popular betting apps and websites offer:
- Live odds and markets
- Betting offers and bonuses (especially for new users)
- Fast payouts direct to your account
Types of Bet
- Win: Your horse must finish first.
- Place: Your horse must finish in the top few (depends on number of runners).
- Each-way: A combination of win + place.
- Forecast/Tricast: Predicting the first two or three in exact order.
More to Explore:
There’s a whole world of betting beyond the basics — including ante-post markets, accumulators, forecast bets, and even betting against a horse (laying a bet). Our full Betting Guide will cover it all — coming soon.
Online Betting Sites
The Grandstand Houses the Royal Enclosure, Queen Anne Enclosure, Private Boxes and Hospitality Suites. The Windsor and Village Enclosures are Nearby.
Royal Enclosure (Invitation Only)
Steeped in tradition and formality, the Royal Enclosure is the most prestigious area at Royal Ascot. Guests enjoy access to the fourth-floor Grandstand, elegant dining rooms, and private viewing lawns with unrivalled views of the Parade Ring and finishing post, with a choice of Champagne bars and fine-dining restaurants.
Five exclusive fine-dining restaurants, with Michelin-starred chefs, hospitality packages, impeccable service and unsurpassed racing views, add to the enjoyment of the occasion. Morning suits and formal daywear are mandatory, and entry is strictly by invitation from an existing member.
Queen Anne Enclosure (Tickets Available)
Located adjacent to the Royal Enclosure, the Queen Anne Enclosure provides excellent views of the track, home straight, and Parade Ring, access to stylish bars and fine-dining options, and a vibrant, dressed-up atmosphere. It’s ideal for those wanting a refined yet sociable race day. A formal dress code still applies.
Private Boxes & Hospitality Suites
Ascot offers a wide range of exclusive hospitality options, from trackside boxes for 10 guests to luxurious lodges and gazebos for larger parties. Private gazebos and trrraces by the winning post and trackside lodges with parking berths close to the parade ring provide an exclusive entertainment space for up to 16 guests. Packages include bespoke menus from Michelin-starred chefs, concierge service, and close proximity to the Parade Ring. Ideal for corporate entertaining or milestone celebrations.
Village Enclosure (Thursday-Saturday)
The Village Enclosure is open Thursday – Saturday during the Royal Meeting and offers a unique festival-inspired experience from the centre of the track. Guests of the Village Enclosure can enjoy the following:
- Trackside viewing from the centre of the track
- A vibrant atmosphere with live music throughout the day
- A range of on-the-day street food eateries
- After party at the main stage until 9pm
Windsor Enclosure (Social & Affordable)
Set in a more relaxed environment with a festival-style vibe, the Windsor Enclosure offers close-up views of the Royal Procession and the first furlong of racing. While there’s no formal dress code, racegoers are still encouraged to dress smartly. Food stands, picnic areas, and live music make this a popular choice for groups and first-time visitors.
Whether you're after elegance, convenience, or simply a smooth arrival, here are the best ways to get to Ascot Racecourse:
Arriving at Royal Ascot in style ensures that your day begins on a high note, setting the stage for a memorable and glamorous experience. If you’re planning a corporate or celebration trip, ask us about full-service chauffeur packages or custom itineraries incluiding accommodationo and hospitality for racegoers from London, the Home Counties, and further afield.
Chauffeur-Driven Service
For door-to-door luxury and comfort, a chauffeur-driven vehicle offer the ideal race day experience. The car will drop you off at a designated zone close to your enclosure entrance — no parking stress and full convenience. Through our trusted partners, you can pre-book a range of prestige vehicles with uniformed drivers for groups of 4 to 12 passengers, including:
- Modern luxury saloons including Rolls-Royce, Bentley. Chrysler and Mercedes
- 8-12 seater stretch limos including Hummer, Chrysler, Expedition, Lincoln and Ferrari
- SUV and MPV transfers including Range Rover, Mercedes V-Class and Driven Landjets
Vehicles are dropped at the designated VIP entrance, and packages can include return transfers, onboard refreshments, picnics and custom schedules for your race day plans.
Coach & Minibus Hire
Travelling as a group? Executive mini-coaches from 8-16 passengers and full-size luxury 24- to 52-seat coaches are available for parties, corporate hospitality, or race day club outings. Onboard features can include leather seating, tinted windows, WiFi, and climate control. Coach parking is available at pre-assigned zones near the course — but advance booking is essential.
Helicopter Charter
The ultimate stylish arrival. Helicopters land at the Ascot heliport (a 10-minute drive to Grandstand), with an escort to the enclosure. Just be aware: it requires advanced planning, is weather dependent, and must be arranged early.
Travel By Train
The most popular and sustainable option. South Western Railway runs frequent services from London Waterloo, Reading, Staines and Aldershot to Ascot station, just a short 7-minute walk to the course — perfect for avoiding both traffic and parking headaches in formalwear.
Travel By Car
Driving gives you flexibility, but you must pre-book a parking permit, which starts around £45 per car. Traffic and congestion are heavy on race days, so aim to arrive before 10 am. Multiple parking zones (Car Parks 1, 2, 5, etc.) are available — nearer to the course is more expensive.
Shuttle and Taxi
Ascot station has a taxi rank and rideshare drop-off point. Some local hotels and providers run race-day shuttle services — great if you prefer group travel or a worry-free approach
Travel Planning Tips
Ascot station has a taxi rank and rideshare drop-off point. Some local hotels and providers run race-day shuttle services — great if you prefer group travel or a worry-free approach
Whether you’re attending in the Royal Enclosure or a hospitality suite, dressing appropriately at Royal Ascot is part of the experience.
Royal Enclosure Dress Code
Formal daywear is mandatory in the Royal Enclosure.
Ladies:
- Dresses and skirts must fall just above the knee or longer.
- Straps must be at least one inch wide. Off-the-shoulder, halter neck, and spaghetti straps are not permitted.
- Hats are required. Fascinators are not permitted.
- >Jumpsuits must fall below the knee and follow the same neckline rules.
- Trouser suits must be full-length and of matching colour and fabric.
Gentlemen:
- Black, grey or navy morning dress is required, with waistcoat and tie.
- Top hats must be worn (black or grey only).
- No cravats, bow ties, novelty waistcoats or coloured hat bands permitted.
Queen Anne Enclosure Dress Code
The Queen Anne Enclosure dress code is still formal, but less strict than the Royal Enclosure.
Ladies:
- A hat, headpiece, or fascinator must be worn at all times.
- Strapless or sheer tops are not permitted.
- Jumpsuits and trouser suits are allowed but must be full-length and modest.
- Midriffs must be covered. Shorts are not allowed.
Gentlemen:
- Full-length matching suit with shirt and tie is required.
- No chinos, trainers, cravats, or bow ties.
- >Socks must be worn and cover the ankle.
Private Box & Hospitality Area Dress Code
Dress codes in private boxes and hospitality areas typically match the enclosure they overlook — most often the Queen Anne Enclosure or Royal Enclosure.
Guidance:
- Guests in private suites should assume a smart formal dress code unless otherwise specified by the host.
- Morning suits are often worn in boxes within or adjacent to the Royal Enclosure.
- Where dress codes are flexible, racegoers are still expected to dress respectfully for a premium environment.
Village Enclosure Dress Code
Ladies
- A dress or top and skirt, with shoulder or halter neck straps (lace and chiffon fabrics are permitted, no minimum length)
- Trouser suits are welcome and should be of matching material and colour
- Jumpsuits should fall below the knee and comply with the above strap requirements
- A hat, headpiece or fascinator
Gentlemen
- A suit jacket or blazer (can be of different material to the trousers)
- A full-length trouser or chino
- A collared shirt
- A necktie, bow tie or cravat (patterns of a patriotic nature, for example a national flag, are acceptable)
- Socks must be worn and should cover the ankle
Those aged 10-17 should dress in accordance with either of the above dress codes although hats, headpieces and fascinators are not compulsory.
Windsor Enclosure Dress Code
There is no official dress code in the Windsor Enclosure, but racegoers are encouraged to dress smartly.
Think race-day chic, not casual beachwear. Many guests still wear hats and dresses or jackets and ties to embrace the occasion.
Military, Overseas, and Youth Dress Code
- Overseas visitors are welcome to wear national dress of an equivalent formal standard.
- Serving military personnel may wear service dress.
- Girls (10–17) should follow the ladies’ dress code but may wear smaller hats or fascinators.
- Boys (10–17) may wear a dark lounge suit with shirt and tie if not in morning dress.
- Children under 10 should be dressed smartly but are not required to follow the full dress code.
What NOT to Wear at Royal Ascot
Please note—the following is not permitted within any enclosure / dress code:
- Dresses and tops that are:
- Strapless or one shoulder
- Off-the-shoulder or bardot
- Sheer (defined as any type of fabric that is see-through / entirely transparent)
- Visible midriffs (defined as the mid-region of the torso between the chest and the waist)
- Fancy dress, novelty patterns and fabrics (including, for example; slogans, phrases, promotional messaging, brand logos or cartoon imagery)
- Trainers
- Denim
- Leggings
- Shorts
Style Guide & Tips
For full visual guidance, download the official Ascot Style Guide or read our summary of race-day fashion do’s and don’ts — coming soon.
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