By Lauren Jade Hill
For the first time in 100 years, Ascot Racecourse is set to introduce an entirely new enclosure for the celebrated summertime event, Royal Ascot. Located by the final furlong, on the inside of the track, the enclosure will provide a new perspective of the race, with the Grandstand on one side and the horses thundering by on the other. As the 2017 edition of the Royal Meeting approaches, excitement is mounting for the new experience this Village Enclosure will afford.
Drawing on Royal Ascot’s steadfast reputation as one of the highlights of the British summer, the new space will take on a summertime theme, reflecting the season with its pop-up dining experiences – from casual al fresco eateries, to a champagne and seafood bar – and cocktail bars, as well as the addition of live music throughout the day. Guests can then choose to upgrade their tickets for access to the enclosure’s VIP areas: the Villiers Club, Restaurant in the Village, and Gazebos in the Village.
The bandstand will lie at the center of the village green, alongside two other stages where brass, jazz and funk bands are set to perform throughout the day. One of the greatest differences this enclosure makes to the event though is its longer hours; instead of coming to a close after the last race, celebrations will continue on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with bands and DJs performing on the main stage.
In celebration of this year’s event, the bespoke globemakers Bellerby & Co, have created a one-off illustrated Royal Ascot globe entitled ‘A World Like Nowhere Else’, depicting the iconic event’s heritage and traditions. This globe will be on display at luxury London hotel The Goring until mid-March, after which time it will go on a tour of a select few prestigious addresses, including Christie’s Auction House and The Ritz Hotel, before finally going on display at Royal Ascot.
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In partnership with Champagne Bollinger, The Goring Hotel will mark the globe’s arrival by offering ‘A World Like Nowhere Else’ champagne flight, in the dining room of the hotel. As the only champagne label to have been associated with Ascot in its 306-year history, the Bollinger flight, which comes with an illustrated map, is just the right way to honor the presence of this hand-painted globe during its time in the hotel.
When Royal Ascot comes around, guests of The Goring have the option of enhancing their day at the races, too, with the hotel’s ‘Day at Royal Ascot’. A champagne breakfast, private car, access to the Queen Anne Enclosure and lunch at On 5 are all included, as well as an indulgent afternoon tea.
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Royal Ascot will take place from the 20th to 24th June 2017. For more information on the new enclosure, its dress code and VIP areas, go over to ascot.co.uk/Royal-Ascot. The Day at Royal Ascot with The Goring costs $3,560 for two.
