How to Save Money at Royal Ascot
Updated May 11, 2026
Key Takeaways
- Planning ahead is the single biggest money-saver for Royal Ascot: From booking tickets early to organising travel in advance, small decisions made before the day can significantly reduce overall costs.
- Most Royal Ascot expenses are flexible, not fixed: Whether it’s outfits, food, or transport, there are always cheaper alternatives if you know where to look and avoid last-minute choices.
- Setting and sticking to a budget is key to avoiding overspending: The atmosphere makes it easy to spend more than intended, so having clear limits in place helps you enjoy the day without financial regret.
Royal Ascot isn’t just another horse race. The atmosphere, tradition, and sense of being part of something British and historic make it special. Every June since 1768, Royal Ascot has brought together sport, fashion, and pageantry in Berkshire for five days.
Be careful, though, because Royal Ascot is an easy place to spend more than you planned. Each year, over 250,000 people attend Royal Ascot racedays throughout the week, according to Ascot Racecourse, and that high demand means prices for everything go up. Tickets, transport, food, drinks, and outfits have all become more expensive as inflation rises.
If you’re not careful, a last-minute trip to Ascot can easily cost £300-£500. I’ve been a few times, and honestly, my first visit was full of costly mistakes like late tickets, expensive drinks, and a suit I only wore once. It was a fantastic day, but definitely not a cheap one.
The good news is you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy Royal Ascot. Keep reading for my best tips on making the most of your day at the races without breaking the bank.
What’s in Savoo’s Guide to How to Save Money at Royal Ascot
- What Is Royal Ascot?
- Tips for attending Royal Ascot for the first time
- How to save money at Royal Ascot
- How to cut transportation costs for Royal Ascot
- How to save on outfits and accessories for Ascot
- How to save money on Royal Ascot food and drink
- How to Save when betting at Royal Ascot
- Final thoughts: Enjoy Royal Ascot on a budget
What Is Royal Ascot?
Royal Ascot is the centrepiece of the British flat racing calendar. It’s a five-day meeting where elite sport, royal tradition and social occasion all collide. The event takes place each June at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire and features 35 races spread across the week, including some of the most prestigious contests in global horse racing.
Royal Ascot is Britain’s most valuable race meeting, with prize money set to top £10.6 million in 2026. This attracts the best horses, jockeys, and trainers from across the globe. The event is broadcast to 175+ countries worldwide.
Over the five days, you can expect to see:
- Eight Group 1 races, which are the highest level in the sport.
- Around 593 horses competing in races.
- International competitors from multiple continents.
- Highlight races such as the Gold Cup, a historic long-distance challenge that began in 1807.
But to describe Ascot as ‘just a race meeting’ would miss the point entirely. What makes Royal Ascot unique is everything happening around the racing.
Royal Ascot traditions and spectacle
Each day at Ascot begins with the Royal Procession, a carriage parade involving members of the Royal Family. It’s a tradition that’s been part of the event for nearly 200 years, and one of the few sporting occasions in the UK where royal pageantry is woven directly into the racegoers' experience.
Then there’s the atmosphere:
- Strict dress codes in certain enclosures.
- Iconic fashion (Including the famous hats).
- Live music, food halls and social spaces that carry on long after the final race.
Think of Royal Ascot as part sporting event, part summer social season. People lean into both sides of it.
Why people go to Royal Ascot (even if they’re not racing fans)
Most people I’ve spoken to, and I’d include myself here, don’t go to Ascot purely for the racing. They go because Royal Ascot offers a rare mix of a genuinely world-class sporting event, with a chance to dress up and make a day of it.
An Ascot raceday has a lively social atmosphere, but it never feels overwhelming. It’s the kind of event you can enjoy however you want. You might focus on the races and follow every detail, or simply enjoy a stylish summer day out with friends.
No matter how you spend the day, you’re part of something bigger than a typical race meeting. Around 65,000 bottles of Champagne and 26,000 jugs of Pimm’s are enjoyed during the week. Those numbers show how Royal Ascot blends top racing with a true summer celebration.
Photo by eleni koureas on Unsplash
Tips for attending Royal Ascot for the first time
Before I get into ways to save money, let’s go over some practical basics. These details can really affect your day at Ascot, and from my own experience, they’re easy to miss if it’s your first time.
Here are five easy tips to help you get ready for raceday and avoid extra stress:
Each enclosure has its own rules, and they are taken seriously. Double-check the dress code before you go, as no one wants to be turned away at the gate.
Getting to Ascot can take longer than expected on busy race days. Book your train or parking spot in advance and allow for delays so you don’t miss the action.
You’ll likely be queuing for things like security checks, food and drinks throughout the day. It’s a good idea to stay hydrated and have something to do while you wait.
Phone signal can be unreliable when big crowds arrive. Download or print your tickets ahead of time, and write down your enclosure, entry gate, and race times. That way, you’re not rushing around on the day.
There are lots of races, food choices, and places to hang out. Take a few minutes before you go to look at the schedule and pick what’s most important to you, whether it’s a certain race, the Royal Procession, or getting a good spot early.
How to save money at Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot has a reputation for being expensive, and not without reason. Between tickets, travel, outfits and a few rounds of drinks, it’s very easy for the day to spiral into something far pricier than you planned. However, most of that spending isn’t fixed; it’s flexible.
I’ve found that an affordable day at Ascot depends on a few key choices you make before you get there, along with a little self-control once you’re inside. You don’t have to cut out all the fun or miss out. It’s more about knowing what’s worth spending on and what isn’t.
Royal Ascot has options for every budget, whether you want the full hospitality experience or just a fun day at the races with friends. In the next sections, I’ll show you how to save money on tickets, transport, outfits, food and drink, and even betting.
It can be tricky to plan that far ahead, especially if you’re going to the races with a big group and trying to match up diaries. But if you already know the date you want to go and you’re sure you’ll be attending, booking early is hands down the best way to save money. You’ll avoid last-minute price hikes and get better availability too!
Last year, I bought my Royal Ascot ticket in early January for the mid-June event. I knew I wanted to go with friends, and the easiest and cheapest way to do so was to plan ahead and buy tickets months in advance. My ticket to the Queen Anne Enclosure cost £75, and a month or so later, the ticket prices skyrocketed to £95! I’m glad I was able to save £20 on my ticket price just by booking early, and not run the risk of tickets selling out altogether!
For Royal Ascot first-timers, here's an overview on the various enclosures to choose from at Ascot Racecourse:
How to cut transportation costs for Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot is one of the standout social events of the summer, attracting over 300,000 spectators across the five-day meeting. People travel from all over the UK to experience it, which means transport demand (and prices) ramp up quickly as race week approaches.
If you're travelling domestically, your main options are trains, cars and coaches. Each has its pros and cons, but one thing is consistent across the board: the earlier you book, the more you’re likely to save. Coaches are often overlooked, but they can be one of the more cost-effective and straightforward options, particularly if you’re travelling from a major city.
Driving can be a good option if you’re splitting costs, but it’s not always the cheapest once you factor in fuel, parking and traffic. Parking at or near the racecourse should be booked in advance where possible, as prices can increase and availability can become limited closer to the event.
Whichever option you choose, it’s important to plan not just how you’ll get there, but how you’ll get back.
To make things a little easier for you, we've put together a guide on getting to Ascot from five major cities in the UK, including the average day return cost (excluding a railcard) and the approximate journey length:
Top tips to save on train travel to Ascot Racecourse
Book early: Advance tickets are usually much cheaper than buying on the day. Leaving things until the last minute often means paying a premium.
Travel off-peak: Avoid busy morning and evening trains to save money. Prices for peak-time trains, particularly on popular routes from London, can climb quickly.
Use a Railcard: If you're eligible, a Railcard can save you up to a third on fares. You should also consider split-ticketing options on platforms like Trainline.
Go as a group: Group bookings can unlock special deals and extra savings on rail fares.
Prioritise comfort: There’s a 10-minute uphill walk from Ascot train station to the racecourse, which can take a toll on your feet, especially in heels!
'If your bag size doesn't allow for a change of footwear, there are shops in the Queen Anne and Windsor Enclosure (the latter of which is accessible to everyone) where you can buy flip flops for £10. I visited the shop around 5pm, and they had sold out hours before. The very kind shop assistant I spoke to advised buying them sooner rather than later if you think you're going to need them.’
If you're travelling from Europe and looking to save money on transport, visit our free guide to getting cheap Eurostar tickets.
How to save on outfits and accessories for Ascot
It's no secret that Royal Ascot is known for its showstopping style. The racing event is famous for high-end fashion, with dresses, designer heels, and hats that can cost more than your rent! It’s probably one of the most ‘dressy-uppy’ events of the summer season, think Bridgerton vibes with promenading around the grounds in suits, flowing dresses, and head-turning hats.
But what if I told you this can be done affordably?
Pay less for a statement hat
Wearing a hat at Royal Ascot has been a tradition for many years. In certain places, like the Royal Enclosure, hats are a must. All around the racecourse, hats help create a lively and stylish atmosphere. You’ll see everything from classic wide-brimmed hats to bright, unique styles. Since hats are such a key part of the event, many people attending for the first time think they need to buy a new one.
One of the easiest ways to save money is to rent your hat instead of buying one! If you think about it, you’ll probably only wear it once, and then it will just be locked away in your wardrobe, collecting dust.
'If your bag size doesn't allow for a change of footwear, there are shops in the Queen Anne and Windsor Enclosure (the latter of which is accessible to everyone) where you can buy flip flops for £10. I visited the shop around 5pm, and they had sold out hours before. The very kind shop assistant I spoke to advised buying them sooner rather than later if you think you're going to need them.’
My colleague Ruby Lizon-Walker often rents her hats for Royal Ascot from The Ascot Milliner. She finds this much easier and more affordable than buying a new hat every year. By renting locally, she can try on different styles and also gets useful tips on hairstyles, colours, and accessories that go well with her chosen hat.
Or, if you’re feeling crafty, why not design your own hat? It’s easier than you think and can save you a small fortune. Start with a budget-friendly base from ebay or John Lewis, then head to Hobbycraft or The Works for affordable decorations like feathers, faux flowers, netting, or ribbon. You could even check Etsy for handmade trims or AliExpress for bargain embellishments. The end result? A completely unique hat that looks the part but costs as little as £10–£20 to put together, perfect for turning heads without breaking the bank.
This is a great real-life example of how you can pull together a fabulous hat without splashing loads of cash. The base was picked up on the high street for just £10 and turned into something really special with a few feathers, some netting, and some creative touches from Hobbycraft. It was finished off with a clip-on brooch found using a discount code from eBay – total cost? Under £20.
It just goes to show you don’t have to spend a fortune to look the part at Royal Ascot. With a little imagination and a few savvy shopping tricks, you can create a standout look that’s stylish and budget-friendly.
Choose an affordable Royal Ascot outfit
When it comes to your Royal Ascot outfit, there’s no need to buy something brand new. Have a rummage through your wardrobe and see what can be restyled. For example, a dress you wore to a wedding could easily be given a new lease of life with different accessories or a new pair of shoes.
If you need to buy something new, try to choose wisely. Classic, simple pieces often look more expensive and are easier to wear again than trendy outfits you’ll only use once. Neutral colours and timeless styles help you follow the dress code and get more value for your money.
Charity shops and Vinted are fab for affordable heels, clutches and jewellery that look the part but cost way less. You’ll often find barely-worn occasion pieces that someone else has only used once, which is exactly the situation you’re trying to avoid yourself.
Extra tips to dress the part for less at Ascot
- Rent your outfit: Platforms like HURR, By Rotation, or Girl Meets Dress offer designer looks for a fraction of the price.
- Borrow from friends or family: A friend’s fascinator or clutch bag could be just what you need, and it won’t cost you a penny.
- Pick reusable accessories: Choose bags, heels and jewellery you’ll wear again to get better value for money.
- Shop off-season: Occasionwear often gets discounted after the peak wedding season or during end-of-summer sales.
- Get creative with your wardrobe: Simple styling tweaks, like a belt or layering a jacket or shawl, can completely change an outfit's look.
Where can I get online fashion deals for Royal Ascot?
Savoo makes it easy to find deals on occasionwear from trusted fashion retailers. Quickly browse the latest discounts, voucher codes and seasonal sales to put together a Royal Ascot outfit for less. Dress to impress without overspending with the retailers featured below.
How to save money on Royal Ascot food and drink
Eating and drinking at Royal Ascot can be just as much a part of the experience as the racing itself. But if you're not careful, it can also be where your budget disappears fastest. The racecourse is divided into four main enclosures, and each one features its own range of food stalls, bars and dining areas. Whether you’re in the Windsor or Royal Enclosure, you’ll find everything from champagne bars to casual street food pop-ups, plus plenty of opportunities to splurge.
For a full breakdown of the premium hospitality options available, including access to 12 Michelin-starred chefs and 17 fine dining restaurants, head to the official Royal Ascot Hospitality page. According to the official website, there are a staggering 142 bars, restaurants and eateries dotted around the venue. That’s more than enough choice, but it can make it hard to know what you’ll end up spending if you arrive unprepared.
Before you go, take some time to research the food options available in your chosen enclosure so you can set a realistic food and drink budget. You can even decide what kind of meal you'd prefer ahead of time, whether that’s a sit-down lunch or a quick bite between races. Allocating a spending limit and sticking to it will help you avoid the temptation of splashing out on every round of Pimm’s or prosecco.
It’s clear that food is a huge part of the event, but to avoid splurging unnecessarily, why not take a packed picnic if you’re heading to the Windsor Enclosure, where it’s allowed? Bringing your own food and soft drinks can save you a lot while still giving you that classic garden party feel. Plus, it leaves room in your budget for a celebratory drink or two inside the racecourse if you fancy one later.
How to Save when betting at Royal Ascot
Betting is often considered the most fun part of the Royal Ascot experience, especially for soaking up the exciting atmosphere! However, it's notoriously one of the easiest ways to "accidentally" overspend. Whether it's your first time at the races or you're a Royal Ascot regular, there are a few clever ways to keep the betting both affordable and enjoyable on the day:
- Understand the types of bets: The easiest way to stay somewhat in control of betting is to do some research beforehand and understand the basics of betting. Try to familiarise yourself with the basics of betting, from placing bets to determining the odds. A little research can go a long way toward understanding how odds work and maximising your return on investment!
- Set a budget and stick to it: It's easy to fall victim to excessive spending when you get caught up in the atmosphere of a race day. If possible, try setting a budget beforehand to decide exactly how much money you are willing to spend on betting, and do what you can do stick to it! Your wallet will surely thank you later!
- Don't chase your losses: If your bets don’t go your way, don’t feel pressured to keep spending more in order to make it back. Betting should be a fun part of the day, not just a money-making strategy. Take wins as a bonus and losses as part of the game. If you do set a budget as mentioned above, you can view it as part of the overall cost of your day out.
Final thoughts: Enjoy Royal Ascot on a budget
Royal Ascot is a truly exceptional day out, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. From booking earlybird tickets and planning travel in advance, to renting your outfit, bringing your own picnic and using any one of Savoo's discount codes on fashion, accessories and more, there are loads of simple ways to keep costs down without missing out on the fun.
One final tip from me: set a rough budget for the day before you go and stick to it. It sounds simple, but it’s incredibly easy to get caught up in the atmosphere and overspend without realising. I usually decide in advance what I’m happy to spend on food, drinks and betting, and once it’s gone, that’s it. It takes the pressure off in the moment, so you can enjoy the day without stressing.
With a bit of planning and some savvy swaps, you can enjoy the magic of the races in true Ascot style, on a budget that works for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Royal Ascot 2026?
Royal Ascot 2026 will take place from Tuesday 16 June to Saturday 20 June 2026 at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England. The famous five-day racing festival runs from Tuesday through to Saturday, with each day offering a different atmosphere and a new set of headline races. Thursday, 18 June 2026, commonly known as Ladies’ Day or Gold Cup Day, is traditionally the busiest and most fashion-focused day of the week.
Royal Ascot is one of the biggest events in the British summer social calendar, so tickets, hotels and transport often book up months in advance. If you’re planning to attend in 2026, it’s worth organising early to secure the best prices and availability.
What is Royal Ascot Ladies' Day?
Ladies’ Day at Royal Ascot is the most fashion-focused day of the famous five-day racing event, known for its glamorous outfits, statement hats and lively social atmosphere. Officially called the Gold Cup Day, it usually takes place on the Thursday of Royal Ascot week and features one of the meeting’s most prestigious races.
Racegoers often wear elegant dresses, fascinators, and formal suits. It is usually the busiest and most photographed day, drawing celebrities, influencers, fashion media, and racing fans. Although women are not required to attend, the name highlights the event’s strong link to fashion and style. Dress codes can differ by enclosure, so it is a good idea to check the official Royal Ascot guidelines before you go.
How do you get tickets for the royal enclosure at Ascot?
Getting tickets for the Royal Enclosure at Royal Ascot is more exclusive than buying regular race tickets. In the past, guests needed sponsorship from two current Royal Enclosure members who had attended for several years. After that, applicants had to apply for membership approval and pay a joining fee.
Now, there are several ways to access the Royal Enclosure in 2026:
- Apply for Royal Enclosure membership through the official Ascot website.
- Be invited or sponsored by existing members.
- Purchase Royal Enclosure hospitality packages through authorised providers.
- Buy limited daily admission tickets if released by Ascot for selected dates.
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