Royal Ascot Racecourse Events: Dates, Location and Tickets

There’s no event in the British summer calendar quite like Royal Ascot. A timeless fusion of high fashion, world-class horse racing, and aristocratic tradition, this five-day spectacle draws royalty, celebrities, and style aficionados from across the globe. Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, Royal Ascot has grown into an emblem of British elegance—where the thrill of the racecourse meets the grandeur of couture.

Every June, Ascot Racecourse transforms into a scene of polished pageantry, from the dramatic flair of hats and fascinators to the thunder of hooves and champagne toasts. Whether you're attending for the horses, the glamour, or the history, Royal Ascot promises an unforgettable experience.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: key race dates, full event fixtures, Ascot’s location, ticket pricing, and, of course, what to wear to ensure you look every bit the part. Let’s dive in.

When is Royal Ascot 2025?

Royal Ascot 2025 runs from Tuesday, 17th June to Saturday, 21st June, delivering five days of thrilling flat racing and high society fashion. Gates open daily at 10:30 AM, with the first race at 2:30 PM and the final race around 6:15 PM.

This glamorous event is a cornerstone of the British summer season, attracting royalty, fashion icons, and racing enthusiasts from around the world. Each day features its own standout races, with Thursday celebrated as the prestigious Ladies’ Day.

Royal Ascot 2025 Full Schedule & Prize Money

Tuesday, June 17th – Opening Day

Wednesday, June 18th

Thursday, June 19th – Ladies’ Day

Friday, June 20th

Saturday, June 21st – Finale Day

Where is Royal Ascot Held?

The world-famous Royal Ascot takes place at Ascot Racecourse, nestled in the picturesque county of Berkshire, England. Just a 50-minute train ride from Central London, it’s one of the most accessible major racecourses in the UK—yet it retains a regal, countryside charm befitting its royal heritage.

Established in 1711 by Queen Anne, Ascot has grown into a globally renowned venue, with facilities fit for royalty and racing fans alike. The venue itself boasts sweeping grandstands, pristine lawns, and elegant enclosures where pageantry and tradition thrive.

Ascot Racecourse Essentials

Whether you arrive by train, chauffeur, or even helicopter, Royal Ascot’s setting is as memorable as the racing itself.

How Much Are Royal Ascot Tickets?

Attending Royal Ascot 2025 offers a range of experiences—from relaxed picnics on the lawn to exquisite hospitality in regal enclosures. Ticket prices depend on the day, enclosure type, and level of exclusivity. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you plan your visit:

🎟️ Royal Ascot Ticket Prices – At a Glance

(Prices are based on official listings for 2025 as of the latest update. Subject to change.)

📍 For the latest updates and to purchase tickets, visit the official Royal Ascot ticketing page.

🏇 Enclosure Descriptions:

• Queen Anne Enclosure: Central to the action. Think fashion, fine dining, and incredible views of the parade ring and track.
  
  

• Village Enclosure: Modern, lively, and social—located in the centre of the track with a festival vibe.
  
  

• Windsor Enclosure: A casual and vibrant option. No formal dress code, and great for groups and first-timers.
  
  

• Royal Enclosure: The pinnacle of prestige. Admission is by invitation or application, with the most formal dress code and exclusive access.
  

Ascot Gold Cup & Key Races of the Week

The highlight of Royal Ascot for racing purists is undoubtedly the Ascot Gold Cup, but every day is packed with thrilling, world-class races. Spanning five days, each Royal Ascot fixture blends sporting prestige with social spectacle.

🥇 Ascot Gold Cup – Thursday, 19 June 2025

Held on Ladies’ Day, the Ascot Gold Cup is a Group 1 race and one of the most coveted prizes in flat racing. Known for its endurance test, it’s run over two miles and four furlongs and draws the top stayers in the sport. It's also the day where fashion takes centre stage, with some of the most spectacular hats and outfits on display.

• Race Time: 16:25
  
  

• Prize Money: £650,000
  
  

• Race Type: Group 1 – Long Distance

🌟 Other Key Ascot Races to Watch

Whether you're cheering trackside or viewing from the Queen Anne Enclosure, these races promise unforgettable drama, elegance, and tradition.

🕰️ What Time Does Royal Ascot Start and Finish?

Royal Ascot 2025 runs from Tuesday 17th to Saturday 21st June, and each day follows a beautifully orchestrated schedule that blends tradition, spectacle, and thrilling competition.

• Gates Open: 10:30 AM – Arrive early to enjoy the grounds, refreshments, and atmosphere.
  
  

• Royal Procession: 2:00 PM – A daily tradition since 1825, the Royal Procession sees the King and Queen arrive in horse-drawn carriages along the track.
  
  

• First Race: 2:30 PM – Racing action begins.
  
  

• Last Race: 6:15 PM – Concludes the day’s programme with a final flurry of excitement.
  
  

🎩 Dress Code Tip: Be sure to arrive dressed according to your enclosure’s rules—Royal Ascot is as much about style as it is about racing. You can check our Royal Ascot Fashion Guide for more information.

📍 Travel Tips:

• By Train: Direct trains from London Waterloo and Reading to Ascot Station (approx. 50 mins from London). It’s a 5-minute walk to the racecourse.
  
  

• By Car: Parking available but must be booked in advance.
  
  

• By Helicopter or Chauffeur: Yes, that’s an option too—this is Royal Ascot after all.

🎩 Dress to Impress: Royal Ascot Style Tips & Fascinator Favourites

At Royal Ascot, the thrill of the races shares the spotlight with fashion—and nothing is more essential than the perfect headpiece. Hats and fascinators are not just accessories; they are a requirement, a tradition, and above all, a statement of style and individuality.

Whether you’re attending for the racing or the fashion (or both), your headwear is your ticket to standing out. In the Royal Enclosure, hats must have a solid base of at least 4 inches, while the Queen Anne Enclosure embraces bold fascinators and couture headbands. The right piece elevates even the simplest dress, transforming your look into one fit for British high society.

Quick Style Tips for Royal Ascot:

• Follow Enclosure Guidelines: Know the dress code—it's strict, especially in Royal and Queen Anne areas.
  
  

• Let Your Hat Lead: Choose your headwear first and build your outfit around it.
  
  

• Keep It Classy: Modest cuts, elegant tailoring, and timeless shapes win every time.
  
  

• Avoid No-Gos: Strapless styles, sheer fabrics, or mini dresses are generally frowned upon.
  
  

💐 At Merve Bayindir Millinery, we specialise in handcrafted Ascot-approved hats and fascinators designed to turn heads. Every piece is sustainably made, exquisitely detailed, and tailored for women who dress to be remembered.

Explore our top Royal Ascot picks below—and discover more at our Royal Ascot Hats Collection. For the official Royal Ascot Lookbook, just follow the link.

Hats & Fascinators for Royal Ascot Racecourse Events

💜 Violet Halo Fascinator

💙 Midnight Whisper Wide Brim Hat

🌸 Aurora Blossom Saucer Hat

✨ Stellar Gleam Fascinator

🌿 Verdant Breeze Fascinator

🪻 Lavender Sparkle Fascinator

🩵 Twilight Petal Wide Brim Hat

💚 Sunlit Meadows Wide Brim Hat