Royal Ascot 2025: A complete guide to Britain's most glamorous horse-racing event
Get ready for the most glamorous racing event of the year. Here’s what you need to know about the weather, races, celebrities, and how to get to Royal Ascot from London.
Royal Ascot 2025 returns from Tuesday, 17 to Saturday, 21 June, promising five days of world-class racing, fashion, and British pageantry at its finest.
Held at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, this iconic event is one of the highlights of the summer social calendar, attracting royalty, celebrities, and racing enthusiasts from around the world.
With origins dating back to 1711, Royal Ascot is as much about style and spectacle as it is about sport.
From show-stopping millinery to the thrill of the Group 1 races, every day is steeped in tradition and glamour.
Here’s everything you need to know from weather to timings and celebrities to spot.
Celebrities at Royal Ascot
Past editions have seen appearances from the royal family, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne, Zara Tindall, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, and well‑known faces such as Lisa Snowdon, Charlotte Hawkins, and even Theo Walcott. Former Made in Chelsea star Georgia Toffolo is also an Ascot regular.
It’s also a magnet for celebrities and influencers, all showcasing couture and over‑the‑top (but stylish) headpieces.
According to the BBC, more than 250,000 spectators are set to attend Royal Ascot across the five days that will see 35 races, including eight Group One races.
How to get to Royal Ascot from London
Train: The most efficient option. South Western Railway departs from London Waterloo approximately every 30 minutes. The direct service takes about 50–54 minutes, covering roughly 25 miles.
Trains run frequently, starting early (5:26am) through late evening (11:50pm).
Tickets begin at £12.60–£13 one-way when booked early, with savings available off-peak or with a Railcard
Chauffeur/Luxury Transfer: Ideal if you're wearing formal attire or prefer door-to-gate ease. These services include access to special drop-off zones near the enclosures—perfect for style-conscious attendees. Early booking is advised.
Car: Drive time varies—about 45 minutes via the M3 or 50 minutes via the M4, though traffic can swell on race days. Pre-booked parking is essential (on‑site options available from ~£45).
Coach/Bus: For groups or airport transfers, Green Line services (702–705) link Ascot with Heathrow and Windsor.
Royal Ascot Weather Forecast
Spectators are in luck, as it’s set to be a scorcher at Royal Ascot this week. Bright sunshine and temperatures in the high 20s are forecast for the racing spectacle, so make sure you drink plenty of water and slap on the Factor 50.