An annual fixture in the British social calendar since the 18th Century, Royal Ascot remains the UK’s most valuable race meeting to this day, attracting some of the finest horses from around the world for five days of thrilling flat racing action. This year Royal Ascot will return from 20-24 June 2023, bringing with it the fabulous millinery, fine dining and top-notch racing the event has become famed for.
But if you’re a Royal Ascot newbie, or it’s been a few years since you last donned your top hat and tails, there are a few decisions to be made before you can begin placing your bets. Most importantly, which enclosure best suits your needs? With four on offer, ranging from the casual Windsor Enclosure to the invite-only Royal Enclosure, your choice will dictate everything from the dress code you must follow to the dining and drinking options you’ll enjoy while there, so pick wisely.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Royal Ascot enclosures.
Windsor Enclosure
Price: Early Bird tickets from £39 per person until 31 March 2023
Dress code: None (but smart daywear is encouraged)
The least formal of the four Royal Ascot enclosures, the Windsor Enclosure operates the most relaxed dress code and occupies a series of lawned spaces along the Home Straight on the Grandstand side of the track, promising prime views of both the Royal Procession and racing. Live music provides a party atmosphere throughout the day while guests are free to bring their own picnic or take advantage of dining options including fish and chips, burgers and ice cream, alongside numerous bars. Planning to bring the kids? Children are welcome in all of Royal Ascot’s enclosures but, with its range of entertainment options between the racing, you may find the Windsor Enclosure best suited to little ones.
Village Enclosure
Price: Early Bird tickets from £75 per person until 31 March 2023
Dress code: Formal – hats or fascinators and knee-length (or longer) dresses for women and a suit and tie, bow tie or cravat for men
Located in the centre of the track facing the Grandstand, the Village Enclosure offers a unique view of Royal Ascot and is the perfect choice for those looking to experience all the pomp and circumstance of the event but in a less formal setting. Live music is also key to the Village Enclosure’s appeal with a large main stage playing host to an eclectic range of DJs and musical acts across the event, creating a buzzy festival atmosphere.
When it comes to dining, the Village Enclosure also has something to suit everyone. If you’re looking for a quick bite stop by the Eat at the Street street food village, which boasts a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. And, while the Village Enclosure is only open from Thursday to Saturday, the space’s decadent fine dining hospitality packages are available across all five days of the event. Book a table at the Restaurant in the Village to enjoy free-flowing drinks, a three-course luncheon of modern British fare and a delectable afternoon tea, plus access to a private viewing area. Alternatively, the Villiers Club, which Ascot describes as one of its best-kept secrets, promises a club-style atmosphere with tapas dishes, burger stations, afternoon tea and a complimentary bar.
Queen Anne Enclosure
Price: Early Bird tickets from £85 per person until 31 March 2023
Dress code: Formal – hats or fascinators and knee-length (or longer) dresses for women and a suit and tie for men
Get right to the heart of the action with a ticket to Royal Ascot’s Queen Anne Enclosure. The premier public enclosure, it boasts prime access to the Parade Ring, giving you unparalleled viewing opportunities for both the Royal Procession and the horses before and after each race. The Queen Anne Enclosure also enforces one of the more formal dress codes, giving you the perfect opportunity to don your finery for a seriously memorable day out.
When it comes to taking in the racing, guests at the Queen Anne Enclosure are granted access to both trackside lawns and Grandstand viewing steps so you’ll never miss your winning horse bring it home. Of course, Queen Anne ticket holders are also granted access to another major Royal Ascot tradition: the Singing Around The Bandstand that takes place at the end of each race day. A jubilant celebration of British summertime, this is one experience you won’t want to miss out on.
And, when it comes to dining, the Queen Anne Enclosure is home to a vast variety of options. Settle in at a Moët & Chandon champagne lounge, tuck into comfort food from Baos at the Bandstand or Sussex Charmer Cheese on Toast or grab a coffee from Lavazza at the Ivy Wall. This enclosure is also home to an array of fine dining restaurants and hospitality options. Think panoramic views and Michelin-quality food at the fifth floor ON 5 restaurant, traditional grandeur and a menu to match at the Pavilion, a stunning private balcony and interactive chefs’ stations at The Furlong and much more besides.
Royal Enclosure
Price: Invite only
Dress code: Formal – hats and knee-length (or longer) dresses for women, morning suits and top hats for men
The most exclusive of Royal Ascot’s four areas, entry to the Royal Enclosure is granted via invitation only. Not lucky enough to find yourself on the VIP lists? Guests can still get a taste of the high life with hospitality packages at one of the Royal Enclosure’s nine exquisite restaurants.
Here you can expect exceptional food by world-class chefs including Raymond Blanc, Ollie Dabbous, Simon Rogan, Tom Barnes and Sally Abé, with options covering everything from tapas-style buffets and chef’s station to formal sit-down lunches and tasting menus, all made with fine seasonal British ingredients. You’ll also be privy to free-flowing champagne and fine wines, unbeatable views of the race track and Parade Ring, and five-star service throughout the day. Well, if it’s good enough for royalty…
To find out more about Royal Ascot 2023, visit ascot.com
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