Queen Anne can be thanked for the discovery of the much-loved grounds at Ascot Racecourse. While staying at Windsor Castle in 1711, she stumbled across flat heathland out on a leisurely ride that she instantly knew would be perfect for racing horses. Later that very same year, Her Majesty’s Plate, the first ever race at Ascot took place in August. Fast forward to today, high-profile events fill the calendar, with Royal Ascot races topping the list – a five-day event with prize money in the millions up for grabs! From rubbing shoulders with regal royals, to watching every heart-stopping furlong of the Gold Cup race, our hotels near Ascot Racecourse are ready to check you and your inner circle in for a memorable day at the races!
Ascot Races
Places to stay
Our hotels near Ascot are just what you need when it comes to making the most of it – because who wants to be stuck travelling for hours?
Our Bagshot hotel and Bracknell (Twin Bridges) hotel come in at under 10 minutes by car to Ascot Racecourse.
Our Bracknell Central hotel, at a 10-minute drive away, is another contender for convenience.
Relax with breakfast, dinner and drinks after the horse racing
Looking to fuel up in the morning or dine down in the evening? We’ve got restaurants on site or just next door to most of our hotels, serving up all your foodie favourites. Maybe it’ll be our unlimited Premier Inn Breakfast… Did you know that up to two kids can eat for free with each paying adult? Perhaps it’ll be dinner through classic and contemporary flavours? From plant-based wonders to succulent steaks, your perfect pairing awaits.
Our Ascot hotels have you covered for every race meeting coming up. Whatever date you have in mind, we’re here for it!
Things to know about Ascot Racecourse
Ascot dress code
From smart daywear and fancy frocks to full-length two and three-piece suits, the racing at Ascot is all about styling it up, up, up. Each enclosure has its own, so make sure you check the dress code online to get the right memo.
Ascot ticket prices
Depending on the race meeting you go to and the enclosure you pick, ticket prices can vary. Cheaper race-days can start at around £20. Royal Ascot tickets? They start at around £35 for the Windsor Enclosure and top out at around £110 for the Queen Anne Enclosure. The Royal Enclosure? That’s members only.
Food and drink at Ascot
From a delicious range of deli-style food and snacks in the Windsor Enclosure to fine dining within the Gardens and Grandstand concourse in the Royal Enclosure, there are palate-pleasing options for everyone.
Ascot Racecourse FAQs
How do I get to Ascot Racecourse?
Ascot Racecourse is about a 50-minute train or car ride from London – and is conveniently close to motorways like the M4 and M25. International racegoers will find Heathrow the easiest link flying in, at around 35 minutes away by car. Helicopter? Why not make an entrance at Ascot’s private helipad!
Is Ascot Racecourse accessible?
Staff are there to help – with enhanced training given to those wearing a sunflower pin badge. From wheelchair access to induction loops, Ascot caters to a range of accessible needs. For anyone with a hidden disability, a sunflower lanyard can be provided to make staff aware that you or someone you care for might need assistance.
What is the busiest day at Ascot Racecourse?
Usually the third day at Royal Ascot. Informally known as Ladies’ Day, the race on everyone’s lips is the Gold Cup. Dating back to 1807, it’s a two-mile showdown between some of the best jockeys in the business.
What is the history of Ascot Racecourse?
From relaxed rules back in 1711 that allowed entrants to choose between a mare, horse or gelding, to the modern, regal tradition of the ruling monarch handing out a trophy for the Gold Cup, Ascot is a treasured British icon loved by racing fans the world over.