How to survive Royal Ascot: from selfie etiquette to picnic politics

As the horses are brushed down, brush up on everything you need to know for Royal Ascot
And they’re off: make sure to bag a prime spot early to catch the royal procession
Rachael Sigee14 June 2016

Royal Ascot starts today so brush up on your equestrian jargon and dig out your finest millinery (as long as your hat has a base at least 10cm in diameter, naturally). If anyone knows how to navigate the complicated world of enclosure etiquette it’s Juliet Slot who, as commercial director of Ascot, is one of the most important women in racing. Here’s her guide on how to stay chic, network and win big.

Work it from the top

“I often start with my hat and build my outfit around that. One of the most unique parts of Ascot is the millinery. It’s a chance to find a really special headpiece. I would say wear something you’ll feel comfortable wearing all day. I wear hats that go up rather than out because I spend the day talking to people. Having said that, I am wearing one with a brim this year but if I can’t get a kiss in, I generally give an air kiss.”

Take a horse to water

“I always drink a glass of water between every glass of champagne and pace myself throughout the day — but it’s horses for courses depending on people individually.”

Picnic politics

“Coming to Royal Ascot and having a picnic is the most traditional way that people enjoy the day. Many people set up a little table in Car Park 1 and if you know your neighbours, it’s fun to join forces and have a joint picnic. I would start with a nice piece of smoked salmon and brown bread then move onto a light salad, quiches and cold meats. Always with a glass of champagne — of course — before finishing with strawberries and cream.”

Snap to it

“Outside on the lawns selfies are fine. Ascot has had free wi-fi for the past three years and smartphones are a big part of the day, with tweeting and Instagramming. We update ours with photos and video clips throughout the day.”

A right royal knees-up

“You’ll need to plan where to watch the royal procession. From 1pm onwards people will be working out how to get a prime position. I’m lucky as I get to attend on all three days, so I’ll see it from three different vantage points: the parade ring when I’m being presented to Her Majesty; down by the rails, because I love the sound of the crowd roaring as they come up the track, and I’ll also watch from a level 6 viewing point.”

Royal Ascot in pictures by the Racing Post's award-winning photographer, Edward Whitaker

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Sing your heart out

“Singing around the bandstand is a truly unique British experience. Don’t feel like it matters if you don’t know the words: we have the lyrics up on big screens — or take a songbook.”

Have a little respect

“Everybody who comes to Ascot is here for a social day out and it’s not a formal public engagement for VIPs, so we ask people to respect that.”

Pick a side

“You don’t have to know about racing — even the experts get it wrong. Pick a horse, colour or jockey that you like and really enjoy the day. If you want to pick a jockey with a great track record, Ryan Moore had a record nine winners last year. I usually talk to our director of racing — he has a hit-and-miss record with me but when the Queen’s horse won the Gold Cup in 2013, he had suggested it to me. I’d told all my guests that day too, so I was very popular.

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