Ascot Racecourse
For over 300 years the Ascot Racecourse has been serving horse racing fans with entertainment and royal tradition.
Ascot Racecourse Review
In the charming town of Ascot, Berkshire, just 25 miles (40 km) west of London, Ascot Racecourse stands as a monument of British horse racing. Founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, it has over 300 years of rich history and is known to be quite cherished by the British Royal Family.
Owned and operated by Ascot Racecourse Ltd, this racecourse marries tradition with modernity, offering an unparalleled racing experience. To ensure it keeps a high standard, Royal Ascot staff even undergo 2,000 hours of training and 4,000 hours of e-learning. The racecourse operates on a 24-hour cleaning cycle, with 3,500 cleaning shifts ensuring impeccable standards.
Track Layout and Types of Racing
Ascot features a right-handed track stretching approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) and 6 furlongs. It hosts flat racing and National Hunt (jump) racing, making it one of the most versatile racecourses in the UK. The flat racing season runs from April to October, while the jump racing season is from October to March, so there’s year-round excitement for racing fans.
Seating and Accessibility
With a capacity of 80,000, Ascot offers seating in its grandstand, as well as various enclosures designed to accommodate a wide range of visitors. Its proximity to Ascot railway station – just a short walk away, gives racegoers easy access with regular train services from London Waterloo and Reading. Multiple bus routes also connect to the racecourse, ensuring easy travel options for all.
Ascot Racecourse Dining and Hospitality Options
Ascot Racecourse elevates the race-day experience with an impressive selection of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual eateries. The racecourse hosts more than 142 bars and food outlets and 204 private boxes, with 12 Michelin Star Chefs and 17 Fine Dining Restaurants delivering an exquisite culinary experience.
Behind the scenes, 40 professional kitchens and 25 Grandstand kitchens operate at peak efficiency, with one kitchen assigned for every two private boxes.
Guests can create a bespoke hospitality experience during the Royal Meeting by choosing one of the following dining options available:
Parade Ring Restaurant (£2,760 per person)
- Exquisite menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan MBE.
- Located adjacent to the Royal Box for a prestigious dining experience.
Windsor Forest (£2,760 per person)
- Highest level of personalized service with unparalleled attention to detail.
Panoramic Restaurant (£1,920 per person)
- Located on the sixth floor, offering breathtaking views and gastronomic delights.
Trackside Restaurant (£1,560 per person)
- Perfect for racing enthusiasts with unparalleled race viewing.
Sandringham Restaurant (£1,140 per person)
- Stunning orangery-inspired setting within the Royal Enclosure (Sold Out) most events.
The Veranda (Sold Out)
One of the most popular dining areas at the track. This venue is most often sold out on race days.
- Prime vantage point at the center of the track for immersive racing action.
Wyndham Restaurant (£840 per person)
- Formal dining amidst the serene Royal Enclosure gardens.
Old Press Room (Price TBC)
- A charming space offering an outstanding fine dining experience.
Private Boxes
- Includes private bar, dining area, flat-screen TV, and balcony.
- Available within both the formal Royal Enclosure and the relaxed Queen Anne Enclosure.
Ticket Prices and Parking
Ticket prices vary by event and enclosure, with general admission usually starting around £25 up to £105. Premium enclosures and/or upgrades are available like Vip, picnic benches or trackside tables give you a more exclusive experience at higher rates. Parking options range from free zones to premium paid areas, catering to all visitors’ needs.
Iconic Events and Big Races at Ascot Racecourse
Ascot is world-renowned for hosting the prestigious Royal Ascot, held annually in June. This five-day spectacle features eight Group 1 races and draws over 350,000 spectators. This often includes members of the Royal Family.
Another marquee event is the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes in July, which showcases Europe’s top middle-distance horses. As Britain’s most valuable race meeting, the Royal Ascot offers £10 million in prize money. This showcases the best in thoroughbred competition as each year, 593 horses take to the tracks over the course of the Royal Ascot. There are a total of 26 Horse Racing events hosted throughout the year at Ascot.
Special Milestones of the Ascot Racecourse
*Did you know that during the five-day Royal Ascot festival, attendees consume:
- 220,000 hand-crafted afternoon tea cakes.
- 110,000 buttermilk scones and 220,000 finger sandwiches.
- 65,000 bottles of Champagne and 26,000 jugs of Pimm’s.
- 7,300 Angus steaks, 6,000 rumps of English lamb, and 3,000 fresh lobsters.
- 1,200kg of Cornish clotted cream and 1,000 hand-raised pork pies.
Betting on the Races at Ascot Racecourse
The racecourse offers fantastic on-site betting options, including simulcast off-track betting for other race meetings. Whether you prefer placing a bet on-site or exploring simulcast options, Ascot gives you a convenient betting experience. Beyond betting at Ascot, online sports betting sites are also an incredibly convenient option for placing your horse racing bets.
Ascot Racecourse Conclusion
With its rich history, world-class quality, and exciting racing calendar, Ascot Racecourse delivers an unparalleled experience for racing lovers and casual visitors. Whether you’re here for the glamor of Royal Ascot or a day at the races, Ascot promises an unforgettable occasion.
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