Royal Ascot is Britain’s most prestigious horse racing event, held annually in June at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England. Established in 1711 by Queen Anne, it is known for its high-stakes races, royal pageantry, and fashionable dress code, including extravagant hats. The event spans five days, featuring world-class thoroughbred racing, highlighted by the Gold Cup and attended by members of the British Royal Family, who arrive in a royal procession. Combining sport, tradition, and elegance, Royal Ascot is a key fixture in the British social calendar, attracting elite guests, celebrities, and racing enthusiasts from around the world.

DATES & TIMES
• Event week: Tuesday–Saturday, 16–20 June 2026.
• Daily schedule: Gates open 10:30am; Royal Procession 2:00pm; racing approx. 2:30–6:10pm; day closes 8:00pm (Royal, Queen Anne & Windsor) / 9:00pm (Village). See timings.

LOCATION
• Ascot Racecourse: High Street, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7JX, United Kingdom. Travel & parking · Open in Google Maps.
• Racecourse map.

TICKETS & ENTRY
• Book tickets (choose your enclosure: Royal Enclosure, Queen Anne, Village, Windsor). Enclosure guide.
• Dress code: Requirements vary by enclosure — review the Royal Ascot dress code.

GOOD TO KNOW
• Picnics: Allowed only in the Windsor Enclosure (subject to policy). Windsor info · Picnic policy.
• Getting there: Direct trains run to Ascot Station (≈7–10 minute walk). Plan your route.
• Accessibility: View accessible facilities, maps and FAQs. Accessibility info.

Planning a trip around Royal Ascot? We’ll curate your day—the right enclosure, tickets & transfers, dress‑code ready, and after‑racing dining—so you can simply enjoy the pageantry. Hire Tripologiste.