Table of Contents
Introduction
Have you been to Royal Ascot or Ascot Race Days? It’s wild to think my first ever Ascot experience was all the way back in 2017. I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I just knew it was meant to be the place to dress up, sip champagne, and see some horses run (and maybe win a little money too). Since then, I’ve gone back twice, both in 2021, and both for regular Ascot race days. One of them was to celebrate my 30th birthday, and let me tell you, what a vibe it was!
Whether you’re planning your first ever visit or just deciding between Royal Ascot and a regular race day, this Royal Ascot guide will break it all down for you from what to wear and how to prep, to what I wish I’d known before going.
Related – My Royal Ascot Outfit and My First Time at Royal Ascot 2017
What’s the Difference Between Royal Ascot and Regular Ascot?
So there are different types of Ascots, and it’s important to know the difference:
- Royal Ascot is THE main event. It is held every June over five days and is attended by the Royal Family (yes, the Royal Family), and comes with formal dress codes, media buzz, and huge crowds. It’s fabulous and definitely an experience.
- Ascot Racecourse, on the other hand, runs throughout the year. These are more relaxed race days, often with themes like “Spring Saturdays” or “Fireworks Raceday.” You can still dress up, enjoy the champagne, and place a few cheeky bets. But you don’t have the pressure of strict fashion rules or sky-high ticket prices.
Although this is what I have noticed, I have seen things relax over the year with Royal Ascots, so worth reading the website here for more information.
What to Wear
Royal Ascot
Expect dress codes, especially if you’re in the Queen Anne or Royal Enclosure. Hats or fascinators are non-negotiable, dresses need to be formal and below the knee (although my dress was not exactly that long). Gents are expected to wear suits or morning coats, depending on the Ascot Royal enclosure. You can again look up the different types of Ascot Royal enclosure you want to be in here.
Regular Ascot Race Days
Here’s where you can relax a bit. You’ll still want to look good (it’s part of the fun and I personally love it), but there’s no formal requirement. I still wore a fascinator for my birthday celebration and loved dressing up with my girls. You can play with style here and feel a lot freer.
Top Tips I Wish I Knew Before My First Ascot
1. Wear Comfortable Shoes
I can’t stress this enough. My first time, I wore heels that looked amazing but had me in pain within the hour. Walking on grass and cobbles is not for the faint-hearted. If I were going now, I would suggest taking your fancy shoes for your photos and then a pair of wedges or chunky block heels for the rest of the day.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Place a Bet
I was super shy about gambling the first time I went, at the Royal Ascot. And can you imagine there was a horse called ‘September’? That should have been my sign! But honestly, putting down a small bet is part of the thrill! Just set a limit (I usually budget around £50–£100) and have fun with it. Trust me, when you see your horse winning, you will jump, and when you see it losing, you will be upset, but it’s all part of the fun, trust me!
3. Eat a Big Breakfast Before You Go
Especially if you’re travelling from London, the journey can be a bit of a mission. The first time I went to Ascot, we took the train from Waterloo, and it was packed. But sooo much fun! I didn’t eat beforehand and deeply regretted it! And the Royal Ascot food at the venue is pricey, and queues are long.
However, the second time I went we got a large van and had my mummy cooking – she made puffpuff, fried yam, party spring rolls and so much more, we had a feast! And I also ordered a cheese box from @NobelleGraze you should defo check them out.
My advice eat before you go and save your coins!
4. Buy a Race Card
I skipped this the first time and spent the whole day asking my friend what was going on. It costs around £4–£5 and gives you all the details: race times, horse info, jockey stats, and more. It makes the day feel more interactive and less confusing.
5. Bring a Portable Charger
Between taking pictures, posting Instagram Stories, messaging your friends, and checking the race schedule, your battery won’t last. A power bank is an absolute must.
Celebrating My 30th at Ascot!!!
Turning 30 at Ascot was honestly one of the best ideas. It wasn’t something that I had done before with my girls, so I knew they would be on it! The weather was great for September, and my friends were buying the bubbly. I was with people I loved, we dressed up, placed a few bets, and made the most of it. There was no pressure, there were too many photos and lots of good vibes.
Whether it’s a birthday, hen do, or spontaneous girls’ trip, regular Ascot race days are a hidden gem!
Other Resources for Royal Ascot
- If you’re even thinking about going, sign up for their mailing list. You’ll avoid disappointment and often get better ticket prices.
- I did a vlog of my time at the Royal Ascot. Check it out here and let me know what you think.
- My Instagram and TikTok have some content on my experience.
- You can also book your accommodation early, and you will need to book early, as it will get booked up quickly as the event gets closer.
- If you’re not coming from the UK, you can use Airlo, an e-SIM card, for data. You can purchase it here and use the code ADEBOL5279.
If you are looking for accommodations near the Races, check out this easy map guide below:
Final Views
Ascot is now something I look forward to, whether it’s once a year or every couple of years. It’s a tradition that makes you feel like you’re part of something extra special, and there’s a version for everyone. Now, would you ever go to Royal Ascot or Ascot Race Days?
If you’re new to Ascot, I hope this guide gives you the confidence to go. If you’re a returning pro, I’d love to hear your tips or favourite moments. Leave them in the comments below!
If this post inspired you to go to Royal Ascot or an Ascot Race Day, subscribe to the blog so you never miss an update. Want more travel tips? Visit the Travel Resources. Explore the Cooking Travel Talks series.
Speak soon,
MBV x
