Royal Ascot’s Royal Enclosure

If you are heading to the races this year at the Royal Ascot Horse Racing Festival, you will purchase tickets to one of four enclosures: the Queen Anne enclosure, the Windsor enclosure, the Village or the Royal Enclosure.  As you might guess from its name, the Royal Enclosure is the most posh of the three.  In fact, it is an exclusive enclosure only accessible to a select few.

The Royal Enclosure was established by King George IV in 1822.  Back when King George IV created it, the Royal Enclosure existed for the entertainment of the King and his friends and family.  Attendance was by invitation of the King only. 

Now, membership remains closed - but invitations are still extended.  If you know someone with a Royal Enclosure membership, they are allowed to bring you along on Friday and Saturday.  If you know two Royal Enclosure members, they can also sponsor you for a new membership.  If you have this opportunity, it is a very special one, and an unparalleled way to experience Britain’s greatest horse racing event.

What is it like, attending the races at the Royal Enclosure?  The Royal Enclosure has the strictest dress code, with very specific rules.  The Royal Ascot dress code is a very big deal.  Make sure you understand it so that you are able to get into the event.

The enclosure of course offers an excellent view of the races, but that is only the start of it.  Members are given access to special restaurants and gardens which the rest of the crowd isn’t privy to.  The lawns and gardens are tranquil and picturesque, and the restaurants and bars offer incredible fine dining.  Royal Enclosure members can also purchase some upgrades, like private Gazebos in the Winning Post Gardens.  Parking is also much easier with spaces available in Car Park 1.  That means less walking and less hassle coming and going each day.  The waiting list for these spaces is literally years long. 

In short, the Royal Enclosure is not just a place to watch the Royal Ascot races.  It is an experience in and of itself, a chance to partake of a bit of the high life.  This can be every bit as much fun as the sporting event itself.  If you know a Royal Enclosure member who is willing to sponsor you for new membership or invite you as a guest, it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you will not want to miss out on!  You will remember every moment for the rest of your life!

And remember, even if you cannot attend the Royal Ascot at the Royal Enclosure, you can still purchase tickets for either the Queen Anne, the Windsor or the Village enclosures.  Even though neither of these enclosures is quite as high-class as the Royal Enclosure, they still offer an opulent experience. Still unsure? Read my instalment on which Royal Ascot enclosure is right for you to help you decide.

And if you cannot make it to the Royal Ascot in person, be sure to watch the races online on a reputable UK betting site using their live streaming services.