On the final day of Royal Ascot 2019 we joined the other thousands of people and a headed to the races. As we are complete novices we decided to jump on our first Stoke Travel tour. The £90 ticket included entry to the Windsor Enclosure, bus transfers, a goodie bag, and a bottle of Brut. Departing from Clapham all looking very dapper, we began the two hour bus ride to Ascot.
The Windsor Enclosure is the entry-level area, where the dress code doesn’t require you to invest in a top hat and tails. Our beginner status was cemented when we realised experienced race-goers came prepared. BYO picnics and alcohol is permitted, which apparently calls for table clothes and crystal champagne flutes in some cases. There are plenty of easy food options if you have left your basket at home. Fish and chips are a clear favourite.
Finding a spot on the fence before the Queen’s arrival at 2pm is no easy feet. A crowd five deep gathered along the fence, definitely stakeout a spot early if you want to get a good view. Thanks to long arms and a smart phone I managed to take a video as Her Majesty rode past in her carriage.
The main event begins at 2:30pm with the last raced at 5:30pm. If you haven’t managed to find a piece of grass to set up for the day, the tiered seating ensures a great view of the track. If you are keen for a flutter there are plenty of bookies within the enclosure.
Back on the bus at 7:30pm, we made the journey back to London with an optional Stoke Travel after-party for those keen to continue on.
What we learnt:
- Pack a picnic and make the most of the day.
- Take a poncho, if it’s raining you don’t want to have to huddle under an umbrella all day.
- Thongs/flip flops are an appropriate footwear for later in the day.
- Get there early if you want a place on the fence.
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