Every year, the world's attention turns to Royal Ascot, Britain's most prestigious and iconic social occasion. Royal Ascot is far more than just horse racing; it's a celebration of heritage, fashion, elegance and tradition, bringing together world-class racing, unforgettable entertainment and a unique atmosphere. Taking place over five days at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, the 2027 Royal Meeting runs from Tuesday 15 June to Saturday 19 June 2027. In this guide, we'll cover the dates, the day-by-day races, the dress code and exactly what to expect from premium hospitality at Royal Ascot 2027.
A Brief History of Royal Ascot
The story of Ascot begins with Queen Anne. In the summer of 1711, she discovered an area of open heath near Windsor that she believed was ideal for horses to gallop at full stretch. She ordered a racecourse to be cleared, and the very first race meeting took place on 11 August 1711. The inaugural race was Her Majesty's Plate, worth 100 guineas. It looked very different from modern racing: only seven horses ran, and they had to compete in three separate, grueling heats, each four miles long.
When Is Royal Ascot 2027?
Royal Ascot 2027 takes place over five days, from Tuesday 15 June to Saturday 19 June 2027, at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire. Each afternoon follows the same treasured rhythm:
Gates open: 10:30 am
Royal Procession: 2:00 pm
First race: 2:30 pm
Last race: 6:15 pm
What Makes the Royal Ascot So Special?
Royal Ascot is particularly special because each afternoon opens with the iconic Royal Procession, as members of the Royal Family arrive in elegant horse-drawn carriages. This tradition creates a roaring atmosphere that sets Royal Ascot apart from other sporting events.
The meeting also attracts many of the finest horses, jockeys and trainers from all over the world, making it one of the most prestigious horse racing events on the planet. It provides a platform for the world's finest competitors to come together and compete at the highest level, with a substantial combined prize pool of £10.65 million on offer across 35 races.
The moments fans live for
An unforgettable Royal Ascot moment on our list is Black Caviar’s dramatic victory in the 2012 Diamond Jubilee Stakes. Arriving at Ascot with an unblemished unbeaten record, the superstar faced one of the toughest tests of her remarkable career.
As the field charged toward the finish, Moonlight Cloud began to close the gap rapidly in the final 50 yards, putting immense pressure on jockey Luke Nolen and Black Caviar. Despite the late challenge, Black Caviar dug deep to produce one final surge, holding on to win by the narrowest of margins, a head. It was a thrilling finish that preserved her perfect record and cemented her place among Royal Ascot’s greatest champions.
This is just one of many unforgettable moments that characterised Royal Ascot throughout history. With every year creating new stories and iconic performances to take away, anticipation is already being built for the 2027 event, where racing fans will once again witness world-class competition and the potential for more historic moments.
What Are the Main Races at Royal Ascot?
Each of the five days has its own character and features races:
Tuesday, Opening Day: Three Group 1 races open the week, the Queen Anne Stakes, King Charles III Stakes (formerly the King's Stand Stakes) and the St James's Palace Stakes.
Wednesday: Highlights include the Prince of Wales's Stakes, Royal Hunt Cup and Queen Mary Stakes.
Thursday, Ladies' Day: The day is built around the prestigious Ascot Gold Cup, the historic staying championship and one of the highlights of the week.
Friday: Features the Commonwealth Cup and the Coronation Stakes.
Saturday, Final Day: The meeting concludes with the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, Wokingham Stakes and Queen Alexandra Stakes.
What Is the Royal Ascot Dress Code?
Royal Ascot's dress code varies by enclosure, and dressing the part is a big part of the occasion:
Royal Enclosure: Women should wear an elegant dress or tailored suit with a substantial hat. Men should wear a morning dress.
Queen Anne Enclosure: A stylish look is expected, such as a smart dress, jumpsuit or tailored outfit with a hat.
Village Enclosure: Dress smartly in dresses, jumpsuits, or tailored clothing.
Windsor Enclosure: The most relaxed enclosure. Smart summer outfits can be worn with a focus on elegance.
What Hospitality Is Available at Royal Ascot 2027?
Hospitality Finder can take your Royal Ascot experience to the next level with a range of official hospitality packages across the Royal Enclosure and the Queen Anne Enclosure. Every package pairs premium enclosure admission with fine dining, free-flowing drinks and outstanding views of the racing and the Royal Procession. Highlights include:
On5 Restaurant (Queen Anne Enclosure): Our flagship fine-dining experience, with a glass-fronted restaurant, trackside viewing balcony and roof-top terrace, Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne on arrival, signature canapés, a four-course lunch, a complimentary bar with fine wines chosen by a sommelier, and afternoon tea.
Wyndham (Royal Enclosure): First-floor fine dining with Royal Enclosure admission, Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Champagne on arrival, a four-course lunch, a complimentary Champagne bar and afternoon tea.
Veranda (Royal Enclosure): Situated at the winning post inside the track, with access to the Royal Enclosure Gardens via a private crossing, welcome canapés, chef-station dining and a complimentary Champagne bar.
Furlong Restaurant (Queen Anne Enclosure): A bespoke marquee with an extensive private terrace and uninterrupted views of the finishing straight, Moët & Chandon on arrival, chef-station dining and a complimentary Champagne bar.
Village Restaurant (Queen Anne Enclosure): A private viewing enclosure in the centre of the track, a Pimm's reception, a three-course lunch and afternoon tea.
Further options include the Gallery Restaurant, Pavilion Restaurant, The Lawn Club and Sandringham, with private tables available across the range. Whatever the occasion, there's a package to suit corporate entertaining and unforgettable days out alike.
What to Expect in 2027
Royal Ascot 2027 promises to be another unforgettable event, with the meeting's popularity expected to grow alongside its ever-increasing prize pool. There is no finer way to experience it than with Hospitality Finder, where guests can relax in luxurious surroundings and soak up the atmosphere of one of the most prestigious events in horse racing, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Demand for Royal Ascot 2027 is expected to be exceptional, so early enquiries are strongly recommended.
Secure your place at Royal Ascot 2027 by enquiring now.
