Category: Horse Racing

Two of the greatest events on the British sporting and social calendar. Both iconic. Both unmissable. But Royal Ascot and the Cheltenham Festival could not be more different. One is a celebration of flat racing, fashion, and royal pageantry under a summer sky. The other is four days of raw, edge-of-your-seat National Hunt drama in the heart of the Cotswolds. Choosing between them often comes down to the kind of experience you are looking for, and with ICON by Engage offering exclusive hospitality at both venues, you do not necessarily have to choose at all.

Here is our full guide to help you decide which event is right for you in 2026.

The Basics: What Are They?

Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot is the most prestigious flat racing festival in the world. Held every June at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, it attracts the finest thoroughbreds from across the globe, competing for a total prize fund of over £10.65 million across 35 races. Eight of those races carry Group 1 status, the highest level in the sport.

2026 dates: Tuesday 16 June to Saturday 20 June

The meeting is attended by the Royal Family every day, with King Charles III and Queen Camilla leading the famous Royal Procession along the Straight Mile at 2pm before racing begins at 2:30pm.

Cheltenham Festival

Cheltenham is the pinnacle of National Hunt racing, or jump racing. Held each March at Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire, the four-day festival features 28 races across some of the most demanding fences and hurdles in the sport. It draws around 250,000 racegoers and is famously described as the World Cup of jumps racing.

2026 dates: Tuesday 10 March to Friday 13 March

The meeting is particularly popular with Irish racing fans, and the British-Irish rivalry, celebrated through the Prestbury Cup competition, adds an extra layer of excitement to every race.

The Atmosphere

Royal Ascot: Glamour

Royal Ascot is as much a social occasion as a sporting one. The atmosphere is refined and celebratory. Champagne flows, fascinators bob, and racegoers dress immaculately across all five days. There is a genuine sense of occasion from the moment the gates open at 10:30am.

Each afternoon builds towards the Royal Procession at 2pm, when the Royal Family arrive in horse-drawn carriages, a tradition that dates back to 1825. Once racing begins, the crowd’s energy builds steadily through the afternoon. The roar as horses approach the finish line on the famous Straight Mile is something you will not forget.

Ladies Day on Thursday is especially spectacular. It is the day the Gold Cup is run, and fashion takes centre stage alongside some of the finest staying horses in Europe.

Cheltenham Festival: Raw Passion and the Famous Roar

Cheltenham is something else entirely. The atmosphere is described by many racegoers as the greatest in sport. The famous “Cheltenham roar” that greets the starter’s flag for the first race each day is a sound that sends shivers down the spine, even on a repeat visit.

The crowd is deeply knowledgeable and passionate. With around 65,000 people packed into Prestbury Park each day, the energy is electric from the moment the gates open. When the leading fancies for the big races parade in the ring, the buzz is palpable. And when a race unfolds up the famous Cheltenham hill, the noise is deafening.

St Patrick’s Thursday takes the atmosphere to another level. The Irish contingent floods the stands and the Guinness Village, and the sense of camaraderie between British and Irish racegoers, fierce rivals on the track but great friends off it, is unique in sport.

In summary: Royal Ascot is sophisticated and celebratory. Cheltenham is passionate, electric, and unfiltered. Both are extraordinary.

The Racing

Royal Ascot: Flat Racing at its Finest

Royal Ascot features some of the most valuable and prestigious flat races anywhere in the world. The 2026 meeting includes eight Group 1 races, with two of them, the Prince of Wales’s Stakes on Wednesday and the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes on Saturday, each worth £1 million in prize money.

Key races to look forward to in 2026:

• Platinum Jubilee Stakes (Saturday): A £1 million sprint finale that draws the fastest horses from around the globe.
• Queen Anne Stakes (Tuesday): The opening race of the meeting and one of the most competitive miles in the calendar. Worth £750,000.
• St James’s Palace Stakes (Tuesday): A Group 1 for the best three-year-old milers. Won in 2025 by the brilliant Field Of Gold in one of the performances of the year.
• Prince of Wales’s Stakes (Wednesday): The richest race of the week at £1 million, attracting the world’s best middle-distance horses.
• Ascot Gold Cup (Thursday, Ladies Day): The oldest race at Royal Ascot, dating back to 1807. A supreme test of stamina over two and a half miles. Trawlerman set a course record when winning in 2025.

Cheltenham Festival: National Hunt Drama

If flat racing is about elegance and speed, National Hunt is about courage and stamina. Cheltenham tests horses over fences and hurdles on a track that rises dramatically at the finish. The famous Cheltenham hill has broken many a favourite in the final strides.

The four days each have their own identity, each headlined by a championship race:

• Gold Cup Day (Friday): The crescendo. The Cheltenham Gold Cup is the greatest race in jump racing, run over three miles and two and a half furlongs. It is the race that defines careers and creates legends.
• Champion Day (Tuesday): Headlined by the Champion Hurdle, the championship for the best hurdlers in training. Worth £450,000.
• Ladies Day / Style Wednesday (Wednesday): Features the Queen Mother Champion Chase, one of the fastest and most thrilling two-mile chases in the sport.
• St Patrick’s Thursday: The Stayers’ Hurdle and, from 2026, the Mares’ Hurdle, which has been moved to this day for greater prominence.

In summary: Royal Ascot offers speed, class, and global star power. Cheltenham offers drama, guts, and moments that live forever.

The Dress Code

Royal Ascot: Formal and Fashion-Forward

Royal Ascot has one of the most famous dress codes in sport, with specific requirements that vary by enclosure.

In the Queen Anne Enclosure, gentlemen must wear a suit with a collared shirt and tie, while ladies are required to wear formal daywear with a hat or headpiece. The Royal Enclosure has even stricter requirements.

Ascot is a genuine fashion event. Millinery is taken seriously, with many guests commissioning bespoke hats for the occasion. The dress code is enforced at the gate, so preparation is essential.

Cheltenham Festival: Country-Smart, Practically Stylish

Cheltenham does not enforce a strict dress code, but there are strong unwritten expectations, particularly in the Club Enclosure and hospitality areas. Gentlemen are advised to wear a jacket and tie or suit, while ladies typically opt for elegant, weather-appropriate outfits.

Given that the Festival takes place in March, practicality matters. Tweed is a popular and entirely appropriate choice for both men and women. Sturdy boots are sensible, given the ground conditions. The aesthetic is country-smart rather than urban-formal, and there is no shame in layering up when the Cotswold wind picks up.

The dress code for ICON by Engage at Cheltenham is: smart day wear for ladies (hats optional), and jacket and tie or suit for gentlemen.

In summary: Royal Ascot demands the full formal wardrobe. Cheltenham rewards thoughtful, weather-ready dressing.

Corporate Hospitality: What Each Offers

Both events are outstanding for entertaining clients, rewarding teams, or simply marking a milestone in style. But they offer different things.

Royal Ascot Hospitality

Royal Ascot is polished, refined, and prestigious. The setting, the Royal Family’s presence, and the fashion make it an immediately impressive environment for guest entertainment. It is an event that virtually everyone has heard of, regardless of their interest in racing. Arriving for a day at Royal Ascot, particularly with premium hospitality, makes a statement.

It works exceptionally well for:

• Senior client entertainment and VIP relationship-building
• Team rewards that feel genuinely exclusive
• Occasions where presentation and prestige matter
• Guests who will enjoy the fashion, the pageantry, and the social scene as much as the racing

Cheltenham Festival Hospitality

Cheltenham is energetic, passionate, and genuinely thrilling. Guests do not need to know anything about racing to feel the electricity in the air. The atmosphere carries everyone along, and a winning bet on a big race creates the kind of shared moment that brings groups together instantly.

It works exceptionally well for:

• Racing enthusiasts who have always wanted to attend the Festival in style
• Entertaining guests who love sport and want to feel close to the action
• Group occasions where energy and fun are the priority
• Those who want to experience one of Britain’s great sporting traditions

ICON by Engage: Exclusive Hospitality at Both Venues

At Engage, we offer our flagship ICON facility at both Royal Ascot and Cheltenham Festival, giving you an unmatched experience at each of Britain’s greatest race meetings.

ICON at Royal Ascot

Our ICON facility at Royal Ascot places you at the heart of one of the most famous sporting spectacles in the world. You will enjoy premium hospitality with views of the racing, exceptional dining, and access to an experience that matches the grandeur of the occasion.

Royal Ascot 2026 runs from Tuesday 16 June to Saturday 20 June. Our packages are available across the week, including for Ladies Day on Thursday and the dramatic finale on Saturday.

Find out more about ICON at Royal Ascot

ICON at Cheltenham Festival

Our ICON by Engage suite at Cheltenham is a stunning glass-fronted hospitality space with a private balcony offering panoramic views of the iconic racecourse. From this vantage point, you can see the final furlong, the finishing straight and the Cleeve Hills as a backdrop. You will feel every moment of the racing as the horses thunder past just metres away.

Guests enjoy gourmet dining, free-flowing Champagne, and exclusive access to racing legends throughout the day. Our suite is located in the Long Run Boxes on Level 2, accessible via the North Entrance, and offers some of the finest viewing anywhere at Cheltenham Racecourse.

The 2027 Cheltenham Festival hospitality packages are now available to book.

Find out more about ICON at Cheltenham Festival

So Which Should You Choose?

If you want elegance, summer sunshine, Royal pageantry, and the finest thoroughbreds in the world competing on one of racing’s great stages, Royal Ascot is your event.

If you want raw sporting passion, the roar of 65,000 fans, Irish rivalry, and four days of jump racing drama that will have you on your feet from first race to last, book Cheltenham.

And if you want both? We can make that happen too. With ICON by Engage available at both events, you could start your racing year with the Cheltenham Festival in March and return in June for Royal Ascot. Two completely different experiences. Both unforgettable.

Get in touch with the Engage team to discuss your options for 2026 and 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Royal Ascot 2026?

Royal Ascot 2026 takes place from Tuesday 16 June to Saturday 20 June at Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire.

When is the Cheltenham Festival 2026?

The 2026 Cheltenham Festival ran from Tuesday 10 March to Friday 13 March. The 2027 Festival is expected to take place in March 2027.

What is the difference between Royal Ascot and Cheltenham?

Royal Ascot is a flat racing festival held in summer, known for its formal dress code, Royal Family attendance, and glamorous atmosphere. Cheltenham Festival is a jump racing festival held in March, famous for its passionate atmosphere, Irish rivalry, and legendary races such as the Gold Cup.

What is ICON by Engage?

ICON by Engage is our flagship premium hospitality facility, available at both Royal Ascot and Cheltenham Festival. Guests enjoy gourmet dining, Champagne, exclusive views of the racing, and access to racing legends.

Do I need to know about horse racing to enjoy Royal Ascot or Cheltenham?

Not at all. Both events are as much about the experience, the atmosphere, and the occasion as the racing itself. First-time racegoers are made extremely welcome, and our hospitality team will help you get the most from your day.

Introduction to Royal Ascot Enclosures

Royal Ascot is far more than a horse racing event. It is a cornerstone of the British summer social calendar, where sport, style and tradition come together in a way that few events can match. Each June, Ascot Racecourse becomes a stage for world-class racing, royal pageantry and unforgettable hospitality experiences.

One of the most important decisions you will make when planning your visit is choosing the right enclosure. Your enclosure shapes your entire day, from where you watch the races to the atmosphere around you, the dress code you follow and the type of guests you are surrounded by. Get it right, and you will enjoy a seamless and memorable experience. Get it wrong, and you may find the day does not quite meet your expectations.

At Royal Ascot, there are four main enclosures, Royal, Queen Anne, Village and Windsor, alongside a range of premium hospitality options. Each offers a distinct style of experience, catering to different budgets, tastes and occasions.

What Are Royal Ascot Enclosures?

Enclosures at Royal Ascot are designated areas within the racecourse that provide different levels of access, facilities and experiences. They are designed to cater to a wide range of guests, from those seeking exclusivity to those looking for a relaxed and social day at the races.

Premium enclosures such as the Royal and Queen Anne offer exceptional views, access to key racing areas and a more refined atmosphere. The Village and Windsor enclosures provide a more informal and sociable experience, with a focus on entertainment and atmosphere.

Hospitality packages take things further, offering private spaces, fine dining and dedicated service. These experiences are particularly popular for corporate entertaining or special occasions, where comfort and quality are key.

Quick Comparison of Royal Ascot Enclosures

Each enclosure offers a different experience, and the right choice depends on what you value most.

The Royal Enclosure is the most exclusive, steeped in tradition and offering the highest level of access. The Queen Anne Enclosure provides a premium experience with excellent views and a vibrant yet refined atmosphere. The Village Enclosure is modern and social, ideal for groups looking for energy and entertainment. The Windsor Enclosure is more relaxed and affordable, making it a popular choice for casual racegoers.

If you are attending for a special occasion or corporate event, premium enclosures or hospitality packages are often the best option. For groups of friends or first-time visitors, Village and Windsor can offer a more accessible and lively experience.

The Royal Enclosure

The Royal Enclosure represents the height of prestige at Royal Ascot. Access is by invitation only, which makes it one of the most exclusive experiences in British sport.

Guests enjoy close access to the Parade Ring and Royal Procession, along with a refined and traditional atmosphere. The dress code is strict and plays a central role in maintaining the heritage of the enclosure.

This option is best suited to those who value tradition, exclusivity and formality. For most visitors, however, access is limited, making other enclosures or hospitality packages more practical choices.

The Queen Anne Enclosure

The Queen Anne Enclosure offers one of the best all-round experiences at Royal Ascot. It combines premium access with a more inclusive atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both first-time and returning guests.

With excellent views of the racing and access to key areas such as the Parade Ring, it is ideal for those who want to fully engage with the sport. The atmosphere is elegant yet lively, and the dress code remains formal without being overly restrictive.

A wide range of dining and hospitality options are available within this enclosure, allowing guests to tailor their day to suit their preferences.

The Village Enclosure

The Village Enclosure offers a modern take on the Royal Ascot experience. It is vibrant, stylish and designed with socialising in mind.

Guests can enjoy live music, pop-up bars and a wide selection of food and drink, alongside access to trackside viewing areas. The atmosphere is energetic and often attracts a younger, fashion-forward crowd.

The dress code is more relaxed, encouraging individuality while maintaining a smart appearance. This makes the Village Enclosure ideal for groups and those looking for a lively day out.

The Windsor Enclosure

The Windsor Enclosure provides a more relaxed and affordable way to experience Royal Ascot. It is known for its informal atmosphere and flexibility, making it a popular choice for larger groups.

While it offers fewer premium facilities, guests can still enjoy the racing from trackside viewing areas and soak up the lively environment. Many visitors choose to picnic, adding to the unique and social feel of the enclosure.

This option is ideal for those who want to experience Royal Ascot without the higher cost or formality of other enclosures.

Royal Ascot Hospitality Enclosures & Packages: ICON by Engage

For those looking to elevate their experience, hospitality packages offer the ultimate way to enjoy Royal Ascot. These experiences combine premium dining, private spaces and exceptional views of the racing.

ICON by Engage provides a contemporary hospitality setting with high-quality food, complimentary drinks and a vibrant atmosphere. Guests benefit from comfort, convenience and a more exclusive environment throughout the day.

What makes ICON exceptional:

• Prime positioning in a premium private facility with stunning views of the racing action
• Three-course fine dining with selected wines
• Complimentary premium open bar throughout the day, including Champagne reception
• Expert racing insight and dedicated race-day host to guide your afternoon

Royal Ascot is the social and sporting event of the British summer. ICON puts you at the heart of it in the most unforgettable way. Enquire now about availability: ICON at Royal Ascot Hospitality

Other Ascot Hospitality

Private boxes offer an even more tailored experience, ideal for corporate groups or special occasions. With private balconies, bespoke catering and dedicated service, they provide both privacy and luxury.

There are also a range of restaurant and trackside options, each offering a slightly different balance of dining, atmosphere and proximity to the racing. Hospitality is widely considered the best way to experience Royal Ascot in style.

Other ICON By Engage Ascot Racedays to Consider

While Royal Ascot is the headline event, Ascot Racecourse hosts several other exceptional racedays throughout the year. These events offer a similar blend of world-class racing and premium hospitality, often with a more relaxed atmosphere.

King George Weekend

King George Weekend is one of the highlights of the summer racing calendar. Centred around the prestigious King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes, it attracts some of the best horses, jockeys and trainers from around the world.

Unlike Royal Ascot, the atmosphere is slightly more relaxed, making it an excellent option for those who want top-tier racing without the same level of formality. Guests can still enjoy high-quality hospitality, stylish surroundings and a vibrant crowd, all within a more laid-back setting.

This raceday is particularly appealing for returning racegoers or those looking for a premium experience with a different tone.

ICON by Engage at King George Weekend 2026

QIPCO British Champions Day

Held in October, QIPCO British Champions Day marks the grand finale of the British flat racing season. It features a series of elite races, bringing together the very best horses and jockeys to compete for some of the sport’s most prestigious titles.

The atmosphere is electric, with a strong focus on the sport itself. While it is less fashion-led than Royal Ascot, it still offers excellent hospitality options and a premium raceday experience.

For racing enthusiasts, this is one of the most exciting days in the calendar. It is also a great choice for corporate entertaining later in the year, offering a high-quality experience in a slightly different setting.

ICON By Engage at QIPCO British Champions Day 2026

How to Choose the Right Royal Ascot Enclosure

Choosing the right enclosure comes down to your priorities. Budget is often the starting point, but it is equally important to consider the type of atmosphere you want and who you are attending with.

If you prefer a formal and traditional experience, the Royal or Queen Anne enclosures are ideal. For a more social and energetic day, the Village or Windsor enclosures may be a better fit.

Corporate groups often benefit from hospitality packages, while smaller groups and couples may enjoy the flexibility of general admission enclosures. If viewing the racing is your priority, premium enclosures and hospitality options provide the best vantage points.

Royal Ascot Dress Codes Explained

Dress codes are a defining feature of Royal Ascot and play a key role in maintaining the event’s unique character. Each enclosure has its own guidelines, ranging from strictly formal to more relaxed interpretations of smart attire.

The Royal Enclosure has the most formal requirements, while Queen Anne maintains a polished but slightly more flexible approach. The Village allows for more contemporary style, and Windsor offers the most relaxed dress code.

Planning your outfit in advance is essential, particularly in stricter enclosures where rules are enforced.

More information on Royal Ascot and their dress codes can be found here.

Tips for Booking the Best Royal Ascot Enclosure

Booking early is one of the best ways to secure your preferred enclosure or hospitality package. Demand is high, especially for key days such as Ladies’ Day and the final Saturday.

It is also worth considering which day you attend, as each offers a slightly different atmosphere. Midweek tends to be more relaxed, while later days attract larger crowds.

Hospitality packages provide a more seamless experience, with added comfort, dining and service. For many guests, this makes a significant difference to the overall day.

The best enclosure depends on your preferences, with each offering a different balance of access, atmosphere and price. It is important to note that you cannot move between enclosures, so choosing the right one in advance is essential.

Hospitality is often considered worth the investment, particularly for those looking to enhance their experience. The Windsor Enclosure is the most affordable, while the Village is known for its lively atmosphere.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Perfect Royal Ascot Enclosure

Royal Ascot offers a range of experiences to suit every type of guest. Whether you are drawn to the exclusivity of the Royal Enclosure, the balance of Queen Anne, the energy of the Village or the relaxed charm of Windsor, there is an option for everyone.

For those looking to elevate their day, hospitality packages provide an exceptional level of comfort and service. They transform a day at the races into a premium experience that is both seamless and memorable.

By understanding your priorities and planning ahead, you can ensure your Royal Ascot experience is everything you expect and more.

The flat racing season is one of the great spectacles of the British sporting calendar, a summer-long celebration of speed, class, and elegance that takes place at some of the country’s most iconic racecourses. From early spring through to autumn, the finest thoroughbreds in the world compete for glory at storied venues that have defined British racing for centuries.

Whether you are a seasoned racegoer or heading to your first fixture, this guide covers everything you need to know about the 2026 flat season, from its dramatic opening day at Doncaster to the glittering finale at Ascot.

What Is Flat Horse Racing?

Flat racing is the purest form of the sport. No fences, no hurdles, just thoroughbreds at full stretch over distances ranging from five-furlong sprints to the extended stamina tests of the classics. It is a contest of breeding, training, and jockeyship, where the margin of victory can be measured in fractions of a second.

The flat season in Britain traditionally runs from late March through to November, with the spring and summer months providing the most prestigious fixtures and the richest prize money.

The Season Opener: Lincoln Handicap at Doncaster

On 28th March 2026, Doncaster Racecourse fired the starting gun on another flat season with the William Hill Lincoln Handicap meeting, the traditional curtain-raiser that gets racing fans talking every year.

This year it was Urban Lion, ridden by Edward Greatrex and trained by J. Channon, who seized the moment in a thrilling finish to claim the Lincoln Handicap. It was a spectacular start that set the tone for what promises to be an outstanding season ahead.

Doncaster holds a special place in British racing’s heart, not just as the home of the season opener, but also as the host of the St Leger, the final Classic of the year. What Doncaster starts in March, it elegantly bookmarks in September.

Key Events in the 2026 Flat Racing Calendar

The flat season is built around a series of headline meetings, each with its own character and prestige. Here is your guide to the races and festivals you should have firmly in your diary.

Betfred Guineas Festival – Newmarket | 1–3 May 2026

The flat season’s Classic journey begins at Newmarket’s Rowley Mile, where the first two Classics of the season are decided. The 2,000 Guineas and 1,000 Guineas are the opening chapters of the Classic story, one-mile tests of speed and precocity that separate the true champions from the pretenders.

Newmarket has been the home of British racing since the 17th century, and there is nowhere quite like the Rowley Mile on Guineas weekend.

Chester Boodles May Festival | 6–8 May 2026

The oldest active racecourse in the world, Chester’s Roman amphitheatre-like circuit makes for one of the most unique and atmospheric settings in British sport. The tight, left-handed track creates tactical races quite unlike anywhere else, and the May Festival is the highlight of the Chester calendar.

Chester is as much a social occasion as a sporting one, the Roodee is a place to see and be seen.

The Derby Festival – Epsom Downs | 5–6 June 2026

Epsom’s Derby is arguably the most famous flat race on earth, the original ‘Blue Riband’ contest that has been run since 1780. One mile and four furlongs around a switchback course that demands speed, stamina, and adaptability in equal measure, the Derby remains the ultimate test of a three-year-old thoroughbred.

Derby Day at Epsom is one of British sport’s great occasions, drawing enormous crowds to the Surrey Downs for a day that combines world-class racing with traditional funfair atmosphere. Explore our hospitality options: Epsom Derby Hospitality

Royal Ascot – 16–20 June 2026

Five days. Thirty races. Fourteen Group 1 contests. Royal Ascot is the undisputed jewel in the crown of the British flat racing season, a meeting that combines sporting excellence with the pageantry and glamour that only Britain can produce.

Each afternoon begins with the Royal Procession down the home straight, carriages bearing members of the Royal Family to the accompaniment of the National Anthem. Then the racing begins, and it is relentless in its quality. From the two-year-old speed of the Windsor Castle Stakes to the staying test of the Ascot Gold Cup, every race on the card features the very best horses from across the world.

ICON at Royal Ascot

For those who want to experience Royal Ascot in the most spectacular style, ICON is the definitive answer. Engage’s flagship Royal Ascot package represents the very pinnacle of racecourse entertaining, an experience designed for those who demand the extraordinary.

What makes ICON exceptional:

• Prime positioning in a premium private facility with stunning views of the racing action
• Three-course fine dining with selected wines
• Complimentary premium open bar throughout the day, including Champagne reception
• Expert racing insight and dedicated race-day host to guide your afternoon

Royal Ascot is the social and sporting event of the British summer. ICON puts you at the heart of it in the most unforgettable way. Enquire now about availability: ICON at Royal Ascot Hospitality

Qatar Goodwood Festival | 28 July – 1 August 2026

Known affectionately as ‘Glorious Goodwood’, this five-day midsummer showpiece is the undisputed highlight of the summer social and sporting calendar. Set against the breathtaking, rolling backdrop of the Sussex Downs, the festival features a prestige-heavy card including the historic Goodwood Cup and the Sussex Stake, the legendary ‘Duel on the Downs’ that often sees the season’s best milers collide.

Goodwood is defined by its unique ‘Garden Party’ atmosphere, where relaxed elegance meets high-stakes competition. It is a place for linen suits, Panama hats, and strawberries and cream, offering a quintessential English summer experience that is as much about the fashion and the view as it is about the world-class Thoroughbreds. Discover our range of luxury packages: Qatar Goodwood Festival Hospitality.

The Rest of the Season

King George Day – Ascot | 25 July 2026

Midsummer flat racing at its most spectacular. The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is Britain’s greatest all-aged middle-distance race, bringing together the Classic generation and their elders in a midsummer showdown. In 2026, the race carries a prize fund of £2 million, making it Britain’s richest race.

ICON by Engage at King George Weekend 2026

York Ebor Festival | 19–22 August 2026

York’s Knavesmire is widely regarded as the finest flat racecourse in Britain, and the Ebor Festival is its crowning glory. Four days of top-class racing including, the International Stakes (often the race that defines the season’s best middle-distance horse) and the Ebor Handicap itself, one of the most competitive and valuable handicaps of the year.

York Ebor Festival Hospitality

The St Leger Festival – Doncaster | 10–13 September 2026

The final Classic of the season, the St Leger, is the oldest of the five Classics and a race that completes the narrative arc of each flat season. Run over one mile and six furlongs, it is a true test of stamina and the preserve of genuine stayers. The final leg of the Triple Crown awaits whoever dares attempt it, though the last horse to win all three Classics was Nijinsky back in 1970, ridden by the great Lester Piggott.

QIPCO British Champions Day – Ascot | 17 October 2026

The curtain comes down on the British flat season in October at Ascot, where Champions Day gathers the season’s finest horses for a single, definitive afternoon. Every major division, sprinters, milers, middle-distance horses and stayers, is settled on this card. The Champions Stakes was crowned the best joint race in the world in 2025, and the 2026 renewal promises to be every bit as thrilling.

ICON By Engage at QIPCO British Champions Day 2026

The British Triple Crown – Racing’s Holy Grail

For those with a passion for racing history, the Triple Crown is the sport’s greatest individual feat. To win the 2,000 Guineas, the Epsom Derby, and the St Leger in the same season, three races over varying distances that demand a horse with rare brilliance, is an achievement so demanding that it has been accomplished just once in living memory.

Nijinsky, trained by the legendary Vincent O’Brien and ridden by Lester Piggott, remains the last Triple Crown winner, completing the hat-trick in 1970. Most modern connections choose the commercial route, retiring their star miler or Derby winner to stud rather than risking a gruelling late-season test. Camelot came agonisingly close in 2012, finishing second in the St Leger after winning the first two Classics.

Each season, the question hangs in the air: could this be the year someone tries again?

Engage Hospitality is delighted to announce a truly special collaboration with renowned milliner Annabel Allen, celebrating style, craftsmanship, and the unforgettable spirit of Royal Ascot.

From 17th March, guests will have the chance to enter our exclusive competition to win the ultimate Ascot experience, including two ICON by Engage hospitality places for Saturday 20th June 2026 at Royal Ascot, and a bespoke, hand‑crafted hat or headpiece designed personally by Annabel Allen.

One lucky winner will step into Ascot in extraordinary style, with Annabel creating a unique piece perfectly tailored to their look and vision for the iconic race day. The competition will remain open for one month, ensuring Annabel has enough time to design and produce the winning headpiece ahead of Royal Ascot 2026.

Enter the competition to win 2 x ICON by Engage hospitality and a bespoke headpiece 

About Annabel Allen Millinery 

Annabel Allen Millinery offers a unique range of beautifully hand-crafted hats and headpieces, each created in Annabel’s Gloucestershire studio.  Annabel uses traditional millinery techniques to transform the finest quality materials into highly elegant, original and easy to wear statement pieces.

After training as a pattern cutter under the Saville Row Apprenticeship Scheme in London in 2007 Annabel embarked upon an early career in the fashion industry, working for brands such as Pringle of Scotland, Temperley London and The Gucci Group.

It was not until moving to Sydney in 2010 that Annabel was introduced to millinery- a discipline that allowed her to combine traditional tailoring skills with highly intricate and imaginative design concepts.

Upon returning to the UK and moving to Bristol in 2013 Annabel continued her millinery training under the accomplished Theatrical Milliner Ani Stafford-Townsend, whilst also setting up Annabel Allen Millinery. 

Recently Annabel has moved to the Cotswolds in Gloucestershire where she continues to create both bespoke and ready to wear pieces, welcoming clients to her studio for consultations as well as running a successful online division. 

Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot, the highlight and most prestigious meeting in the flat season calendar. Held at one of Britain’s most iconic racecourses, Ascot has become the most popular race meeting of the year promising a glorious atmosphere and sense of occasion.

Engage’s association with Ascot Racecourse spans more than decade, with a diverse range of hospitality and fine dining hospitality packages available for Royal Ascot. ICON by Engage offers an unrivalled hospitality experience for you and your guests and will undoubtedly enhance the excitement of the racing on the track and the magic off it.

On the Saturday, Royal Ascot reaches its climax with three Group races, including the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes worth £1 million. It is the ultimate finale to a magnificent week. What it is: The oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, held at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. Think immaculate grass courts, classic white attire, and a quintessential British summer garden party atmosphere. 

How to Enter

Entering is simple. Participants will fill out the entry form on the Engage website here.

Entrants should be over 18, in line with standard hospitality giveaway rules and to ensure compliance with age‑restricted event attendance.

What You Could Win

The prize brings together the very best of Engage’s hospitality offering and Annabel Allen’s exceptional millinery artistry:

👒  A bespoke hat or headpiece, exclusively designed and handmade by Annabel Allen.  

🏇 Two hospitality places at Royal Ascot 2026, enjoying the ICON by Engage experience on Saturday 20th June.

This is a unique opportunity to enjoy Royal Ascot with impeccable style, from the moment you arrive, to the moment the horses cross the finish line.

Exclusive Offer for Existing ICON Guests

As an added touch of luxury, those who have already purchased ICON by Engage hospitality for Royal Ascot 2026 will receive an exclusive 10% discount with Annabel Allen Millinery.

We will be sending an email to all qualifying guests with their personalised discount code.  

Guests will simply present the code at the time of purchase to enjoy this offer.

You can purchase hospitality to Royal Ascot from Engage directly here. 

Join Annabel at Royal Ascot – Best Dressed Announcement

To make the celebration even more special, Annabel will be joining us at Royal Ascot on Saturday 20th June. She will be selecting and announcing the Best Dressed guest, and presenting the winner with a special bottle of bubbles to mark the occasion.

Expect elegance, creativity, and a touch of Ascot glamour.

After another five days of spectacular top-class horse racing, Royal Ascot is over for another year. But the good news is that we’re already looking ahead to the next one. 

Every year the best horses and jockeys on the planet flock to Berkshire for one of the most iconic horse racing festivals around. It gives guests the chance to dress to impress and with our exclusive hospitality packages, you can enjoy a day of luxury. 

We had a blast this year and we’re already looking forward to Royal Ascot 2026. If you fancy joining us in style, now’s your chance. We’re offering bespoke hospitality experiences, with plenty of different options depending on your preferences. 

Next year’s Royal Ascot gets underway on Tuesday 16th June 2026, with the final day taking place on Saturday 20th June. Here’s what we’ve got to offer. 

ICON by Engage 

Our flagship ICON facility is among our most popular each year and for good reason. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be treated like a VIP. As well as unrivalled views of the racing action, you’ll also get all this: 

• Official hospitality facility within the racecourse 
• Superb three-course lunch with selected wines 
• Guest appearances from ICONs, racing enthusiasts and tipsters 
• Champagne reception 
• Complimentary bar 
• Cocktails and afternoon tea 
• Complimentary race card and Racing Post 
• Exclusive bar and garden area 
• DJ and live music 
• VIP Engage host service 

Our exclusive ICON facility isn’t the only hospitality package we have to offer. If you’re looking for something different, why not make the most of one of these? 

On5 

For a more intimate hospitality experience, join us in ON5, a fifth-floor glass-fronted restaurant with a spacious track-facing viewing balcony and rooftop terrace. Enjoy a four-course lunch on a private table for between two and 12 people, as well as a complimentary bar including Moet and Chandon champagne. 

Private Box 

To have a hospitality experience completely separate from other groups, a private box is ideal. They can accommodate groups from 10 to 72 people and offer a private balcony for spectacular views. As ever, you’ll have access to a complimentary bar, as well as the choice of a sit-down or buffet menu. 

Wyndham 

Take in the gorgeous summer with a first-floor fine dining experience in the stunning Royal Enclosure Gardens. The facility features a private balcony and is just a short stroll from the Winners’ Enclosure and Parade Ring. 

Furlong 

Aptly named for a horse racing facility, our Furlong facility is set within a luxury marquee just a stone’s throw away from the winning post. The private balcony offers incredible views of the winning straight, while the complimentary bar serves champagne throughout the day. 

Parade Ring 

The Parade Ring restaurant is located in the Grandstand, adjacent to the Royal Box. Live in luxury for the day, with access to the Royal Enclosure gardens and bars, as well as canapes on arrival and a five-course à la carte luncheon. 

The Sandringham 

Positioned just a short walk from the trackside, the Sandringham facility is a delightful orangery in a sunny corner of the stunning Lavender Courtyard. The large outdoor deck offers plenty of space to relax and unwind following a four-course chef station or signature menu.  

Trackside 

There’s no better place to feel as though you’re right at the heart of the action than the Trackside facility. Located just metres from the Winning Post, you can enjoy the business end of each race close up, as well as a five-course lunch and complimentary bar. 

The Veranda 

For a different view of the winning post, why not spend the day in the Veranda? It’s located on the inside of the track and has both a private viewing area and private track crossing. Just like all of our hospitality packages, it offers canapes, complimentary drinks and delicious food. 

The Gallery 

A spacious restaurant situated in the Queen Anne Enclosure, The Gallery offers a marquee experience with views of both the track and the royal procession. Enjoy a three-course lunch and complimentary beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks. 

Pavilion Restaurant 

The Pavilion Restaurant is an historic staple of Royal Ascot and provides sweeping views over the Queen Anne lawns. It’s the perfect spot for larger groups, whether you’re on a corporate day or entertaining a party of friends. 

Restaurant In The Village 

This private area is situated in the centre of the track and from Thursday to Saturday, guests can make the most of all the entertainment on offer in the Village Enclosure. Enjoy live music and a DJ until the evening, as well as a three-course lunch with buffet style desserts and cheese.