The crown jewel of the calendar is, of course, Royal Ascot in June. This five-day spectacle is as much a triumph of millinery as it is of muscle; it’s the one week of the year where the avant-garde architecture of the ladies' hats can—quite literally—overshadow the champions on the track.
STOPS
Ascot Racecourse
On your marks!...
Giddy up! If there is one name that defines the "Sport of Kings," it is Ascot Racecourse. Widely regarded as the premier racing venue in the United Kingdom, this historic site hosts world-class Thoroughbred racing throughout the year.
More Than Just a Racetrack
Nestled within the lush, rolling greenery of Windsor Great Park, the racecourse offers a backdrop that is as prestigious as the events it hosts. But you don’t need to be a jockey to appreciate the facilities:
Weddings with a Wow-Factor: Imagine saying "I do" in a venue synonymous with elegance.
Corporate Excellence: From high-stakes conferences to expansive industry exhibitions.
Grand Celebrations: Whether it’s a sophisticated winter ball or a vibrant summer party.
Versatility on a Grand Scale
With the capacity to accommodate up to 1,800 guests, the venue is designed for scale. Whether you’re planning an intimate VIP gathering or trying to squeeze in every single one of your mates for the party of a lifetime, Ascot provides the space and the silver-service polish to make it happen.
Address
Ascot Racecourse, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7JX
Directions from the FAST Museum
To drive from the FAST Museum to Ascot Racecourse, you will head northeast for approximately 13 miles (21 km). The journey begins by taking the A325 (Farnborough Road) and A331 (Blackwater Valley Route) to join the M3 motorway at Junction 4, heading toward London. You then exit the M3 at Junction 3 (Bagshot/Lightwater) and follow the A322 and A332 through the wooded sections of Swinley Forest directly into Ascot. Potential delays typically occur at the A331/M3 interchange during peak hours and at the M3 Junction 3 roundabout, which can become heavily congested with local commuters and traffic merging from the A322. Additionally, the High Street in Ascot often experiences slow-moving traffic, especially on race days or during local events.
Useful Links
Ascot Racecourse (Opens in new window) Based on the official Ascot Racecourse website, visitors are offered a premier horse racing and social experience featuring:
World-Class Racing: Home to the prestigious Royal Ascot, as well as high-profile Flat and Jumps fixtures throughout the year.
Enclosure Options: Access to various viewing areas such as the Queen Anne, Village, and Windsor Enclosures, each offering different atmospheres and views of the track.
Fine Dining & Hospitality: A vast range of culinary experiences, from Michelin-starred restaurants and private boxes to casual food stalls and champagne bars.
Royal Pageantry: The unique opportunity to witness the Royal Procession and tradition, particularly during the five-day Royal Meeting in June.
Fashion & Style: A focus on high-fashion and strict dress codes, providing a glamorous social setting for guests to dress up and compete for "best dressed."
Events & Entertainment: Themed race days including family-friendly events with free activities for children, live music, and the famous "Singing Around the Bandstand."
Guided Tours: Access to the history of the racecourse through "behind-the-scenes" tours and educational insights into its 300-year heritage.
Facebook: Ascot Racecourse (Opens in new window) Provides a glamorous mix of high-stakes racing coverage, real-time results, and stunning photography of elite equine athletes. It offers essential updates on major events like Royal Ascot, featuring dress code inspiration, hospitality previews, and behind-the-scenes footage to engage both racing enthusiasts and social attendees.
X: Ascot Racecourse (Opens in new window) Provides followers with real-time racing updates, behind-the-scenes footage, and ticket information for its world-class equestrian events.
Instagram: Ascot Racecourse (Opens in new window) Provides a high-fashion look at race-day style, featuring vibrant photography of the Royal Procession, elite equestrian action, and elegant guest attire.
Previous Stop: FAST Museum Brings aviation history to life through its extensive collection of pioneering aircraft, jet engines, and scientific exhibits housed at the historic Royal Aircraft Establishment site in Farnborough.
Next Stop: Fleet Services Provides a convenient and well-equipped motorway stop on the M3, offering a wide range of dining options, essential amenities, and a modern hotel for travelers looking to recharge between London and the South Coast.
