Your Complete Guide To Royal Ascot Etiquette and Traditions

With Royal Ascot 2021 fast approaching, we are all getting excited about the return of spectators and bettors to the tracks that we know and love. Royal Ascot is one of the most prestigious and well-loved events in the racing calendar. For some, it is the excellent racing and the betting opportunities that it offers that make Royal Ascot such an enjoyable event. For others, it is the formalized luxury, glitz, and glamour that makes the meet such a special event. When it comes to Royal Ascot 2021, there is a lot to get your head around. No one wants to be embarrassed at the event due to not understanding its idiosyncrasies. Fear not! Here we have your complete guide to Royal Ascot etiquette and traditions so that you need to do nothing other than relaxing and enjoy the socializing and racing. 

Dress code

You only need to take a look at images of past events to see that there are high expectations when it comes to Royal Ascot. Although there are specific dress codes given for different areas of the course, Royal Ascot is generally considered to be an event that requires formal wear. Men and women wear hats and suits. Be sure to check out the exact requirements for dress according to on where you will be spending your time. Also, be aware that the dress code applies to children as well as to adults. 

Be considerate of others

Firstly, wearing a top hat is not something that many of us are likely to do on a day-to-day basis, and for that reason, we are likely to be aware of the inconvenience it can cause to others. Just be sure to remove it when standing or sitting with others so that you do not block the view of the race. Also, if you are invited to Royal Ascot by a member, it is tradition (and polite) to write them a letter of thanks that expresses your gratitude at the invitation.

Dining

Dining at Royal Ascot is almost as important as the racing itself. You will not find any greasy burger stalls at this shindig! There are 14 restaurants for you to choose from, and it is advisable to book in advance. You are welcome to enjoy your own picnic at Royal Ascot – bring a picnic blanket as there are no benches or tables available. You should also note that only wine and champagne are permitted when it comes to drinks. 

Keep it down

When your horse wins, be sure to keep the celebrations discrete and respectable. Whilst it is ok to cheer on your horse and to celebrate the win, this should be done in a calm and understated manner. You’ve heard of being graceful in defeat – when it comes to Royal Ascot. you need to be a graceful winner.

So, get the Royal Ascot race cards at the ready, and prepare for some top racing without the fear of making a fatal faux pas.