Why is the Royal Ascot such a special race?

Did you know that the ‘Royal’ part of the famous Ascot race dates back over three centuries? It’s true – Queen Anne first paid a visit to the famous Berkshire racecourse way back in 1711 and it’s located just a short drive from Windsor Castle – the home of the British Royal Family.

The Royal Raceway

It’s not only the Royal connection that gives Ascot such a special sense of reverence. It’s by far the most valuable race meeting in the United Kingdom, with more than £6.58 million in prize money on offered to the various winners over a grand five days. The Royal Ascot is home to 18 Group races, and eight of them are in the elite Group One class. Australia’s very own Black Caviar – undefeated in 25 races – has graced the Royal Ascot, alongside a who’s who of famous racehorses from years past. Only the creme de la creme need apply – but you can be there with Motive Travel.

You don’t have to be a member of the Royal Family to attend this sumptuous event. Though the Queen has attended each and every Royal Meeting even since she came to the throne in 1952, we at Motive Travel can take you on a trip that even Her Majesty can’t. Okay, so we can’t offer you breakfast at Buckingham Palace, but take a look at what we will be getting up to (aside from the spectacle of the races themselves, of course)!

A trip to Motivate you

You’ll enjoy six nights’ accommodation at the nearly-as-posh Marriott Kensington Hotel in London, as well as a further three nights at the Bedford Lodge in Newmarket – seen by some as the home of British horseracing.

At Newmarket, we’ll pay a visit to the revered Newmarket Gallops and the National Horse Racing Museum, as well as a visit to the stud farms at Darley and Barnstead Manor. You never know, you could pat a future superstar on the nose – but one already resides at Barnstead…

Frankel was undefeated in 14 starts, and eight of those were in elite Group One races. Retiring without a blemish on his faultless record, Frankel now resides at Barnstead Manor as a much sought-after stud, and a live foal sired by the great horse will set you back £125,000 – that’s over $200,000. On the Motive Travel Royal Ascot tour, we’ll be paying a visit to arguably the world’s greatest ever racehorse, which for racing fans, is akin to meeting a favourite celebrity or lifelong hero. Be sure to bring your camera!

Additionally, we’ll take a half-day to see the sights of London town, and all flights and transfers are included in the price, flying with Emirates from Perth. Remember, the Royal Ascot is just as famous for fashionable attire as it is the horses, so remember to bring along your best tops and tails or most extravagant dress for the occasion. That’s before we’ve even talked about the headwear on display – Ladies Day will open your eyes to a range of hats, fascinators and tiaras, the likes of which you have never seen before!

Remember to get in touch with the friendly team at Motive Travel to find out more about the Royal Ascot tour – it’s going to be an epic!