When is Ascot Ladies Day?
Ladies Day is always on the Thursday of Royal Ascot, which this year falls on Thursday, 18th June 2026.
What is Ascot Ladies Day?
Royal Ascot Ladies’ Day is one of the most iconic occasions in the British racing calendar, known for combining top-class horse racing with a strong sense of style and tradition.
It takes place on the third day of Royal Ascot and is widely regarded as the most fashionable day of the meeting. While racing is the main event, many people also attend to enjoy the atmosphere, with a particular focus on elegant and eye-catching outfits, especially from female racegoers.
The tradition of dressing up dates back generations and is often linked to the long history of Ascot itself, which was founded by Queen Anne in 1711. Over time, the day has become famous not just for what happens on the track, but also for the pageantry and glamour in the stands.
Today, Ladies’ Day remains a highlight of the Royal Ascot week, blending heritage, racing, and fashion into one standout occasion.
Afternoon tea on the Queen Anne Lawns – Royal Ascot
What is the Ascot dress code?
Although other racing events encourage a refined sense of style, Ascot is renowned for the strictness of its dress code. Woven into the fabric of the event, Regency fashion arbiter Beau Brummel dictated the dress code for men in the 19th Century, and the formal tradition continues to this day.
Royal Enclosure
The most prestigious enclosure at Ascot demands a dress code to match. Women are required to wear dresses of modest lengths with straps of one inch or greater. Jumpsuits and trouser suits are welcome but must be of a matching colour. Hats or larger headpieces are also a requirement. Men must be in black or grey morning dress, with a top hat.
Queen Anne Enclosure
Named for the event’s founder, steeped in pedigree and featuring such luxurious facilities as the Royal Ascot Pavilion, this enclosure’s dress code follows in a similar vein. Women are required to wear formal dress, with strapless and off the shoulder dresses not permitted. Rules on head-wear are relaxed, however, with guests allowed to express themselves with all manner of hats, headpieces and fascinators. Men must wear a full-length suit with a tie at all times.
Where is Ascot?
Ascot Racecourse is located in beautiful Berkshire, less than an hours drive or train journey from London. Visitors coming from further afield will find it convenient from the M3, M4, M40 & M25 motorways as well as London Heathrow, ensuring you can make the most of your day at this remarkable event.
Popular Royal Ascot Facilities:
The Ascot Pavilion
With a private balcony overlooking the gorgeous Plaza Lawns, the Royal Ascot Pavilion packages provide your esteemed clientele with a delicious three-course lunch, complimentary bar and afternoon tea, before sauntering down to the Grandstand and Parade Ring to watch the thrilling action unfold.
Treat yourself, your employees or your important clients to this magnificent sporting and social occasion with our Royal Ascot Pavilion hospitality packages. In this glorious setting, tradition, pageantry and style intertwine to create a truly unforgettable experience.
The Gallery Restaurant
This facility, with a superb second-floor suite introduced above The Lawn Club, provides guests with a fabulous corporate hospitality option, replacing the original Sandringham Restaurant. A splendid benefit of this new and delightful location is its situation relative to the racecourse; from its prime viewing position, attendants can enjoy the thrilling racing action like never before. The Royal Procession will also pass directly in front of the facility.
