A prestigious date in the horse racing calendar, the five-day meet that is Royal Ascot is one of the most spectacular horse racing events you can attend. Held in June, Royal Ascot has a prize pot of over £7m and attracts some of the world’s best horses and jockeys as well as thousands of spectators looking to experience all the glamour and drama of the track.
So, if you are thinking of attending this year, then we can help you make the most of this thrilling festival with our Royal Ascot Survival Guide: 7 tips for attending Ascot.
- Stock up on a big breakfast!
While fun, it will also be a long day at the races, and you need to be able to sustain your energy, particularly if alcohol will be involved. So, giving yourself a head-start with a decent breakfast is a wise way to approach a day at Ascot. Opt for a breakfast that has slow-energy release, so you stay feeling fuller for longer.
- Take some comfy shoes
You will be spending most of the day on your feet, so you need to prepare for eventual foot fatigue. If you are wearing heels, then it’s a good idea to pack a pair of flats or flip-flops in your handbag so you can swap when the throbbing begins. And if you are wearing new shoes, always make sure they are worn first, and have a spare pair of socks and even blister plasters, just in case.
- Ensure your belongings are secure
Any racecourse is a busy bustling place, even if restrictions are temporarily reducing numbers. And that means your belongings can be vulnerable to opportunists if left unattended or easy to reach. Ensure you zip up handbags or store your wallet inside your jacket where it is safe. And if you’re lucky come race time, don’t be too flash with any winnings as it can attract unwanted attention.
- Be prepared for the weather
Yes, you want to show off your outfit, but you also need to factor in the Great British weather and so prepare for several seasons in one day! A pair of sunglasses, sunscreen, a compact umbrella and a cover-up such as a pashmina or jacket should see you through.
- Buy a race card
A little race know-how is a good thing so one of the first things you should buy is the official race card. For around £4.50 you will get the lowdown on the races, the horses and jockeys so you can plan your day and also decide where you want to place your bets.
- Have a budget
Knowing in advance how much your wager budget will be and then taking the exact amount in cash is always a good idea. It will save you queuing for the ATMs and also prevent you from overspending or betting more than you can really afford. To save some money you could attempt making a lucky 15 bet.
- Don’t drink too much
And finally, it can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of the occasion and perhaps indulge a little too much with alcohol, or drink too much too soon and so run the risk of ruining the rest of your day. The key is moderation and to pace yourself, so you can fully experience a day at Ascot….and remember it the next day!
