Horse Racing with Engage in 2025


2025 marks the beginning of an exciting year for Engage Hospitality! This year Engage are celebrating their 20th birthday, which means there will be more hospitality on offer than ever before! In what promises to be our best year yet, there will be plenty of action for you to get involved in including the horse racing calendar! From the flats season at Royal Ascot to the jumps season at the Grand National and Cheltenham, we will round up what to expect in the 2025 racing calendar!

Cheltenham

Cheltenham Festival will kick off the major events in March 2025 as four days of racing action await us. The Gloucestershire countryside provides a stunning backdrop for one of the biggest horse racing festivals on the planet as jockeys and trainers travel from all over the world for the event. The highlight of the festival comes on day four with The Gold Cup taking place. Current holder Galopin Des Champs is going for his third consecutive title, replicating a feat that hasn’t been seen since Best Mate achieved it in 2004.

With 28 races expected over the four days, an action-packed week awaits us. Watch the horse racing with Engage who are offering some fantastic hospitality packages including our exclusive ICON facility! Indulge in a four course premium lunch, a complimentary bar and much more with this incredible experience!

Aintree

Shortly following Cheltenham will be the famous Grand National Meeting taking place at Aintree. From Thursday 8th to Saturday 10th April enjoy this fantastic racing meet topped by the iconic Grand National race on the Saturday. In one of the most popular races in the UK, watch as some of the biggest horses on the racing circuit try to emulate the success of legends such as Red Rum, Tiger Roll and many more.

The 4 mile 3 1⁄2 furlong race jumps 30 fences as jockeys and trainers battle it out to be crowned champion of this illustrious event, with the first race beginning back in 1839. Fancy being there to see the Grand National yourself? Check out Engage Hopsitality’s fantastic packages for you to watch the racing from some of the best seats in the house, across the whole weekend! Soak up the atmosphere with fine dining, spectacular views and exclusive areas in either the Horse & Groom or the Sunloch Restaurant.

Ascot

Royal Ascot 2025 will take place in June and we are certainly excited for this one. The meet has taken place since 1807 and this famous festival is the most prominent horse racing event in the world, with racing enthusiasts congregating for a celebration of the sport in the Berkshire countryside. This year from the 17th until 21st June, Ascot racecourse will be taken over by elegant fashion, exuberant racing fans and even some special guests! The royals are renowned for making an appearance at the legendary Ascot racecourse including the late Queen Elizabeth II. Expect to see King Charles and Queen Camilla watching the action as the horses thunder past!

Similarly to Cheltenham, the highlight of Royal Ascot 2025 is the Gold Cup taking place on day 3 with horses travelling from all over the world! Royal Ascot is one of Engage’s biggest events that they offer hospitality for and 2025 will be no different! Celebrate 20 years of Engage by joining us at Royal Ascot in one of our eleven hospitality options including our exclusive ICON facility!

Royal Ascot is not the only event taking place at Ascot in 2025. Engage offer hospitality for a whole host of events in the Berkshire countryside. Ascot attracts an astonishing 600,000 visitors every year with events including Royal Ascot Trials Day on the 30th April, Victoria Cup Raceday Weekend from the 9th until the 10th May, the QIPCO King George Diamond Weekend from the 25th until the 26th July and much more! Check out Engage Hospitality offering outstanding packages for you to watch the racing at Ascot in luxury.

With plenty of events in 2025 for horse racing fans to experience, what will you choose? A day at Ascot or perhaps Cheltenham? There is something for everyone to enjoy this year so celebrate Engage Hospitality’s 20th birthday and indulge in one of our many packages including our exclusive ICON facilities!ce on the third day, but you’ll be able to see world class Group 1 action whatever day you decide to join us.

Engage Hospitality’s Ascot Events 2025


Looking for a last minute Christmas Gift that somebody will love?

Are you a horse racing enthusiast? Or do you need to impress a new client next year?

In 2025, Engage Hospitality are offering a range of fantastic packages for you to experience the thrill of racing at Ascot with Royal Ascot 2025 and many more racing events on the calendar in the New Year. Here at Engage we talk you through what to expect and the hospitality available!

Royal Ascot 2025

The big one that all horse racing fans want to attend is Royal Ascot! The epitome of the British horse racing scene, this iconic 5 day festival has been taking place since 1807, with the Gold Cup being the most prestigious race over the 5 days. Taking place from 17th June until 21st June 2025, this world-renowned event is attended by royalty with the late Queen Elizabeth II often enjoying the event. The festival boasts fabulous fashion on show and some thrilling flats races, which you will not want to miss.

Why not experience the event in luxury with Engage? There is a range of wonderful hospitality options on offer including ICON by Engage, ON5, Private Boxes, The Sandringham Suite and much more!

Watch the racing in style with ICON, Engage’s exclusive hospitality experience, with a delicious 4-course meal, complimentary bar, live music and guest appearances from some of the sport’s most prominent figures. We’ll even chuck in cocktails and afternoon tea to make your day a perfect one. Be quick though, it will sell out!

Fancy something a bit more exclusive? Our Private Boxes for Royal Ascot are located in the Grandstand of the Queen Anne Enclosure on levels 2 to 6. These boxes can hold between 10 to 72 people with a complimentary bar, sit down meal or buffet and wonderful views of the circuit all included. They are sure to wow any clients or help you enjoy a day spent with friends!

Why not immerse yourself in nature with the Royal Enclosure Gardens at the Wyndham Hospitality? This stunning hospitality package gives you the chance to take in the action from this beautiful setting, transformed entirely for Royal Ascot. Only a short walk from the Winners’ Enclosure and Parade Ring, watch as your favourite horses prepare to make history while you sip Moet & Chandon Champagne alongside a 4-course lunch.

So whether it’s the Private Box or ICON by Engage, there is something for everyone at Royal Ascot in 2025! Watch Royal Ascot in the presence of royalty and join us in 2025 for a racing festival like no other!

Other Ascot Events

If Royal Ascot 2025 is simply not enough for you to make the most of this spectacular venue, then we have even more coming your way. In 2025, Engage are offering a multitude of events at Ascot. Join 600,000 other people as they travel to the Berkshire countryside with race days throughout the new year including the Royal Ascot Trials, the QIPCO King George Diamond Weekend, the Victoria Cup and much more.

As one of Ascot’s Official Hospitality Suppliers, Engage are offering packages for Ascot horse racing events almost every month in 2025. Experience luxurious hospitality from intimate private boxes to state of the art hospitality suites. Indulge in delicious fine dining, complimentary drinks and of course some of the finest horse racing action the UK has to offer. Trust us, you do not want to miss this.

Dress Code

Make sure you come prepared, Ascot has a strict dress code which alternates for the jumps and flats season. For the flats season, racegoers are encouraged to wear their best summer clothes and embrace the occasion. Trainers are not allowed and it is recommended that gentlemen wear a collared shirt, jacket and tie while ladies are recommended to wear a dress, jumpsuit or suit and a hat or headpiece.

Alternatively during the jumps season, although formal attire is encouraged, there are no formal dress codes enforced. However, guests should dress smart and appropriately for the seasons, with racegoers often opting for boots, coats, jackets and winter hats.

With a long list of Ascot race days, which one will you choose? Royal Ascot 2025 or maybe something a bit more lowkey? Give someone the perfect gift this Christmas with Engage Hospitality and watch the horse racing at Ascot with us. You will not be disappointed!

Upcoming Ascot Events

Howden Christmas Racing Weekend – Friday 20th – Saturday 21st December
Clarence House Chase Raceday – Saturday 18th January, 2025
Betfair Ascot Chase Raceday – Saturday 15th February, 2025
Spring Family Raceday – Sunday 30th March, 2025

When is Royal Ascot 2025?

While the next flat racing season won’t start until next spring, regular Ascot goers will have already marked the dates for next year’s Royal Ascot in their calendars. The five-day festival is one of the most quintessentially British occasions in the world of sport, giving those attending the chance to dress to impress.

Next year’s Royal Ascot takes place in June, just a few months after Royal Ascot Trials Day at the end of April.

Royal Ascot Day 1 – Tuesday 17th June
Royal Ascot Day 2 – Wednesday 18th June
Royal Ascot Day 3 – Thursday 19th June
Royal Ascot Day 4 – Friday 20th June
Royal Ascot Day 5 – Saturday 21st June

It’s never too early to register your interest in joining us at Royal Ascot. As well as top class racing and the chance to catch a glimpse of the royal family, you’ll be able to take advantage of our exclusive hospitality packages.

With options on offer for groups of all sizes, reserve your place today to enjoy complimentary drinks, food and the best views of the racing action available. The Gold Cup traditionally takes place on the third day, but you’ll be able to see world class Group 1 action whatever day you decide to join us.

Looking ahead to the jumps racing season at Ascot

Racing fans, we’ve got good news and bad news. The bad news is that the flat racing season is almost over for another year. But the good news is that jumps racing is just around the corner.

Following another thrilling flat season, including five whirlwind days at Royal Ascot, it’s time to put the fences up and test the best jump horses on the planet ahead of a gruelling winter of racing action. With plenty of exciting race days to look forward to, including the Cheltenham Festival and the Grand National, here’s everything you need to know.

Another flat racing season comes to an end

The curtain will close on this year’s flat racing season at the weekend. Ascot’s QIPCO British Champions Day is the unofficial wrap party and the iconic day will see some of the world’s finest horses go head-to-head for the final time this year, with the weather set to move the action to the inner course.

There’s £4 million in prize money to be won across the day, with four Group 1 races to look forward to on the six-race card, including the lucrative QIPCO Champion Stakes. It’s the richest race day in the British racing calendar and you can be there to witness the action in style thanks to Engage’s exclusive hospitality packages.

Enquire today to reserve a private box, with space available for up to 18 guests to enjoy a delicious lunch, as well as a private bar and dining area. You’ll enjoy the best views of the famous racecourse, with a private balcony and a large TV available so you won’t miss a second of the action.

When are the big jumps race days?

As we bid a fond farewell to the flat racing season, fans up and down the country will already have one eye on the big jumps fixtures to look forward to. As well as a stacked winter at Ascot, there are also plenty of unmissable events further afield on the horizon.

Next year’s Cheltenham Festival gets underway on Tuesday 11th March, with the final day of racing action taking place on Friday 14th March. The four-day event is among the biggest occasions in world racing and features iconic races including the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the Champion Hurdle, the Queen Mother Champion Chase and the Stayers’ Hurdle.

Following Cheltenham, attention will turn to the Grand National Festival just a few weeks later at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool. While the headline race on the Saturday attracts the most attention, the three-day event actually begins on Thursday 3rd April.

Following packed cards on the first two days, it comes to a close on Saturday 5th April with the main event. This year’s Grand National saw Paul Townend ride eight-year-old I Am Maximus to glory, with 2023 winner Corach Rambler falling at the first fence.

Ascot Jumps fixtures

While Cheltenham and the Grand National seem like ages away, don’t worry because there are plenty of race days to look forward to before then. The jumps season at Ascot gets underway on the first weekend of November with the Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday.

Following that, there are five more winter events to keep you entertained and we have hospitality availability for all dates. Enquire today to reserve your place.

Ascot Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday – Saturday 2nd November
November Racing Weekend – Friday 22nd – Saturday 23rd November
Howden Christmas Racing Weekend – Friday 20th – Saturday 21st December
Clarence House Chase Raceday – Saturday 18th January, 2025
Betfair Ascot Chase Raceday – Saturday 15th February, 2025
Spring Family Raceday – Sunday 30th March, 2025

When is Royal Ascot 2025?

While the next flat racing season won’t start until next spring, regular Ascot goers will have already marked the dates for next year’s Royal Ascot in their calendars. The five-day festival is one of the most quintessentially British occasions in the world of sport, giving those attending the chance to dress to impress.

Next year’s Royal Ascot takes place in June, just a few months after Royal Ascot Trials Day at the end of April.

Royal Ascot Day 1 – Tuesday 17th June
Royal Ascot Day 2 – Wednesday 18th June
Royal Ascot Day 3 – Thursday 19th June
Royal Ascot Day 4 – Friday 20th June
Royal Ascot Day 5 – Saturday 21st June

It’s never too early to register your interest in joining us at Royal Ascot. As well as top class racing and the chance to catch a glimpse of the royal family, you’ll be able to take advantage of our exclusive hospitality packages.

With options on offer for groups of all sizes, reserve your place today to enjoy complimentary drinks, food and the best views of the racing action available. The Gold Cup traditionally takes place on the third day, but you’ll be able to see world class Group 1 action whatever day you decide to join us.

Don’t Miss! Ascot Races 2024 and 2025

Royal Ascot is without doubt one of the biggest Horse Racing festivals worldwide, however there are other incredible meetings throughout the year to enjoy at the famous Ascot Racecourse. With a lower price point for brilliant hospitality, read on and pick another fantastic meeting to attend in 2024 / 2025.

September Weekend | Autumn Weekend & Beer Festival | QIPCO British Champions Day | Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday | Howden Christmas Racing Weekend | Betfair Ascot Chase Raceday | Victoria Cup weekend | King George Diamond Weekend | Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup


Full Day’s of Entertainment – The September Weekend

The September Weekend at Ascot promises a blend of thrilling horse racing and lively entertainment. Friday offers an evening of competitive flat racing, perfect for an after-work outing with friends. On Saturday, the excitement heightens with a full day of top-tier racing, including prestigious races attracting elite horses and jockeys. Beyond the track, the atmosphere buzzes with live music, gourmet food, and a stylish crowd. This event combines the elegance of Ascot with the vibrant energy of late summer, making it a must-visit for racing enthusiasts and socialites alike.


Perfect for Beer Lovers – The Autumn Weekend & Beer Festival

The Autumn Weekend & Beer Festival at Ascot Racecourse is a vibrant celebration combining top-class horse racing with a lively beer festival. Held during a crisp autumn weekend, the event features thrilling races, live entertainment, and a wide selection of craft beers from local and international breweries. Guests can enjoy tastings, gourmet food stalls, and live music, all set against the stunning backdrop of Ascot‘s historic racecourse. The festival atmosphere is enhanced by seasonal decorations, making it a perfect destination for both racing enthusiasts and those looking to savour the flavours of autumn.


Top Tier Racing – The QIPCO British Champions Day

QIPCO British Champions Day at Ascot Racecourse is the grand finale of the British flat racing season, held annually in October. It’s the richest race day in the UK, featuring six top-class races, including four Group 1 events. The day showcases elite horses, jockeys, and trainers competing for prestigious titles and substantial prize money. Highlights include the Champion Stakes and the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes. The event draws racing enthusiasts and royalty alike, offering a blend of high-stakes competition, glamour, and tradition in the stunning setting of Ascot, one of the world’s most iconic racecourses.


Brilliant for families – The Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday

The Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday at Ascot Racecourse is a vibrant event perfect for all ages, blending thrilling horse racing with a festive atmosphere. Held annually, the day offers a full schedule of races alongside family-friendly activities, including face painting, funfair rides, and live entertainment. As evening falls, the event culminates in a breathtaking fireworks display, lighting up the sky in a dazzling array of colours. With plenty of food and drink options available, it’s a day packed with excitement, making it a memorable outing for families and racegoers alike.


The Ultimate Christmas Party – Howden Christmas Racing Weekend

The Howden Christmas Racing Weekend at Ascot Racecourse is a festive two-day event, held annually in December. It features top-class horse racing, including the prestigious Long Walk Hurdle, attracting elite horses and jockeys. The weekend offers a vibrant atmosphere with Christmas-themed entertainment, family-friendly activities, and festive food and drink. Racegoers often dress in seasonal attire, enhancing the holiday spirit. Live music, carol singing, and the presence of Santa Claus make it a memorable experience for all ages. It’s a highlight of the winter racing calendar, blending high-stakes competition with joyful celebration.


First Class Opener – Betfair Ascot Chase

The Betfair Ascot Chase Raceday at Ascot Racecourse is a premier National Hunt event held annually in February. The highlight is the Grade 1 Ascot Chase, attracting top-class chasers over a 2 mile 5 furlong course. The day features a thrilling card of jumps racing, showcasing elite horses, jockeys, and trainers. With a rich atmosphere, it combines the excitement of high-stakes racing with Ascot’s renowned hospitality. Guests enjoy a blend of tradition and modern luxury, making it a must-attend event for racing enthusiasts, offering a perfect mix of sporting excellence and social entertainment.


Prestigious Day in Spring – The Victoria Cup Weekend

The Victoria Cup weekend at Ascot Racecourse is a highly anticipated event in the UK racing calendar, blending top-tier horse racing with a vibrant social atmosphere. Held annually in May, it features the prestigious Victoria Cup, a competitive seven-furlong handicap race that draws elite horses and jockeys. The weekend is a celebration of fashion, with attendees donning stylish outfits, creating a lively and glamorous setting. Alongside thrilling races, the event offers gourmet food, champagne bars, and live entertainment, making it a quintessential British racing experience that attracts both racing enthusiasts and socialites alike.


A Diamond in the Calendar – King George Diamond Weekend

The King George Diamond Weekend at Ascot Racecourse is a prestigious two-day event held in late July, showcasing some of the best horse racing in the world. The highlight is the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth QIPCO Stakes, one of the most significant midsummer races, attracting top international thoroughbreds. The weekend combines thrilling sporting action with luxury dining, stylish fashion, and entertainment, offering a classic British social experience. Attendees enjoy gourmet food, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-attend event for racing enthusiasts and socialites alike.


Which team will win? – The Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup

The Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup at Ascot is a unique and thrilling team-based horse racing event. Featuring four teams—Europe, Great Britain and Ireland, Rest of the World, and Ladies—each competes for the prestigious Shergar Cup. Jockeys from around the globe are invited to represent their teams in a series of competitive races throughout the day. The event combines world-class racing with a lively atmosphere, including live music, entertainment, and fan engagement. With its mix of international flair and friendly rivalry, the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup offers an unforgettable experience for racing enthusiasts and families alike.

Royal Ascot 2024 Round-Up

After a wonderful week of horse-racing action, Royal Ascot has come to a close for another year. The racing festival in Berkshire, England played host to a stunning 35 flat races over five days of enthralling action as both King Charles and the Queen were in attendance. After such a successful 2024 event we take a look at the key talking points, upcoming meetings and a look ahead to the 2025 event with Engage Hospitality.

Royal Ascot 2024

From the 18th-22nd June, some of the best flat racing horses, jockeys and trainers took to the Berkshire countryside to battle it out in one of the most famous events on the horse racing calendar. Arguably the most prestigious on the circuit, Royal Ascot was first brought about in 1768 as a four-day meeting. Now much more established, Royal Ascot attracts horse racing and fashion enthusiasts in numbers, alongside the Royal Family with millions of pounds of prize money up for grabs.

This year’s competition was no different with some huge winners across the 5 days. Perhaps the biggest shock of the week came on day one in the Coventry Stakes. Teenager Billy Loughnane rode 80-1 longshot Rashabar to victory beating Electrolyte to claim his first meeting win. Elsewhere on day one, Rosallion, Charyn and Asfoora were group 1 winners.

On day two, it was trainer Aidan O’Brien who celebrated his 400th group 1 win on the flat as jockey Ryan Moore rode Auguste Rodin to win the Prince of Wales’s Stakes. Moore also celebrated his 81st meeting victory, after winning earlier in the day, equalling Frankie Dettori’s leading active victories. Lester Piggot is the all-time Royal Ascot record holder with 116 victories.

The third day saw the main event take place, the Gold Cup. Kyprios was only the third horse ever to regain the title after winning in 2022, beating the favourite, Trawlerman, to victory. It was another victory for Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore, as Moore surpassed Dettori’s leading active victories.

Day four saw Porta Fortuna take victory, ridden by Tom Marquand, in the Coronation Stakes. It was a win which saw trainer Donnacha O’Brien beat his father Aidan to first place. Earlier in the day, Inisherin was a dominant winner in the Commonwealth Cup winning by 2 1⁄4 lengths.

The final day took Ryan Moore’s Royal Ascot wins total to 85 as he rode Bedtime Story to victory in the Cheltenham Stakes winning by an astonishing 9 1⁄2 lengths, the biggest winning margin of the week! Elsewhere in the day, Khaadem won the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes for the second year in a row to round off an enthralling week of racing action.

Royal Ascot 2025 Hospitality

Upcoming Meetings

Don’t worry if you missed out on Royal Ascot, Engage have plenty of opportunities over the rest of the summer for you to watch the best horses in action from the best seats in the house! The Qatar Goodwood Festival is another prominent fixture in the calendar with top level racing including two group 1 races, the Sussex Stakes and Nassau Stakes. Check out Engage’s hospitality options in both The Long View and The Final Furlong suites with ‘Glorious Goodwood’ taking place from the 30th July-3rd August!

How about a day at the races further north? With three group 1 races as well as Britain’s richest handicap, York’s Ebor Festival is a day at the races you can’t miss! Check out Engage’s hospitality options for one of the oldest and most famous racecourses in the UK!

Don’t forget the range of events still on show at Ascot this summer including the Summer Mile Racing Weekend, QIPCO King George Diamond Weekend and Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup! With plenty of racing to keep you entertained, why not watch it from the best seats in the house?

No matter which race day you fancy, Engage Hospitality have got you covered! We offer hospitality for events up and down the country including Aintree, Chepstow, Cheltenham and more! Don’t hesitate to get in contact with us and find out what your options are.

Royal Ascot 2025

Missed out on this year’s exciting array of fashion and racing? Don’t worry, Engage Hospitality will once again provide the best facilities for you to enjoy the racing in the company of Royalty in 2025! Watch to see how many races Aidan O’Brien and Ryan Moore can go for next year while enjoying delicious food and drink, on us! Royal Ascot 2025 takes place from the 17th-21st June 2025, so get the dates in your diary now to experience another scintillating weekend of racing action!

With an endless list of hospitality on show for Royal Ascot 2025, which one will you choose? Check out ICON by Engage, Wyndham, ON5, private boxes and much, much more!

Everything you need to know about Royal Ascot 2024

With just a week to go until Royal Ascot 2024, the anticipation is building in Berkshire. Once again, all eyes will be on the iconic horse racing event as the best horses and best-dressed punters all come together for a quintessentially British racing festival.

Saddle up for five days of top-class racing and expect to see plenty of fascinators and top hats on show, and if you’re lucky, maybe a royal or two. As ever, Engage will be providing exclusive hospitality packages, offering you the chance to enjoy the racing action from the best seats in the house. Enquire today to book your place.

Royal Ascot race schedule

Tuesday 18th June

As ever, Royal Ascot will kick off with The Queen Anne Stakes, with Frankie Dettori’s old pal Inspiral the favourite, while Charyn and Facteur Cheval are expected to challenge.

2:30pm – The Queen Anne Stakes
3:05pm – The Coventry Stakes
3:45pm – The King Charles III Stakes
4:25pm – The St James’s Palace Stakes
5:05pm – The Ascot Stakes
5:40pm – The Wolferton Stakes
6:15pm – The Copper Horse Stakes

Wednesday 19th June

Day two sees the festival’s most expensive race take place with The Prince of Wales’s Stakes. Auguste Rodin is the likely favourite but will face competition from White Birch.

2:30pm – The Queen Mary Stakes
3:05pm – The Queen’s Vase
3:45pm – The Duke of Cambridge Stakes
4:25pm – The Prince of Wales’s Stakes
5:05pm – The Royal Hunt Cup
5:40pm – The Kensington Palace Stakes
6:15pm – The Windsor Castle Stakes

Thursday 20th June

Kyprios is the odds-on favourite to reclaim his crown in The Gold Cup after winning back in 2022. Last year’s victor Courage Mon Ami has been forced to pull out through injury.

2:30pm – The Norfolk Stakes
3:05pm – The King George V Stakes
3:45pm – The Ribblesdale Stakes
4:25pm – The Gold Cup
5:05pm – The Britannia Stakes
5:40pm – The Hampton Court Stakes
6:15pm – The Buckingham Palace Stakes

Friday 21st June

Inspiral won The Coronation Stakes two years ago and now Opera Singer and Fallen Angel are looking to do so on the penultimate day of the festival.

2:30pm – The Albany Stakes
3:05pm – The Commonwealth Cup
3:45pm – The Coronation Stakes
4:25pm – The Duke of Edinburgh Stakes
5:05pm – The Sandringham Stakes
5:40pm – The King Edward VII Stakes
6:15pm – The Palace of Holyroodhouse Stakes

Saturday 22nd June

Kinross has edged ahead in the betting of The Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, well ahead of Art Power who came out on top when the pair met in the British Champion Sprint Stakes.

2:30pm – The Chesham Stakes
3:05pm – The Hardwicke Stakes
3:45pm – The Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes
4:25pm – The Jersey Stakes
5:05pm – The Wokingham Stakes
5:40pm – The Golden Gates Stakes
6:15pm – The Queen Alexandra Stakes

Royal Ascot dress code

It goes without saying that Royal Ascot is a classy affair and all attendees are expected to dress to impress. But depending on where you’re spending the day, there are different rules, so make sure you’re dressed appropriately for your enclosure.

Queen Anne Enclosure

Gentlemen: A suit jacket or blazer with a full length trouser or chino must be worn, as well as a collared shirt, socks and either a necktie, bow tie or cravat. Again, trainers, denim, leggings and shorts are not allowed.

Ladies: As above – sheer or strapless dresses and tops are not allowed and midriffs must be covered.

Ladies Day dress code

Traditionally, day three of Royal Ascot is Ladies Day, which gives the wonderful women attending the chance to go all out. There’s no official dress code for Ladies Day, although guests often use it as a chance to make a statement with extravagant hats, dazzling jewellery and dresses that stand out.

Royal Ascot

How to get to Ascot racecourse

If you’re travelling by train, Ascot station is just a seven minute walk from the racecourse, with directions clearly signposted. The train journey from London Waterloo takes under an hour, while Ascot is also served by frequent trains from Reading and Guildford.

For those driving from the north, the midlands and London, leave the M4 at junction 6 and follow the A332 Windsor bypass to Ascot. If you’re coming from the west, south or east, head towards Bracknell and follow the signs to Ascot. Parking can be booked online in advance.

Looking ahead to Royal Ascot 2024

The flat racing season is up and running and with less than two months until Royal Ascot, the anticipation is building. The best horses and jockeys from across the planet are set to go head-to-head in a festival packed full of world class racing.

If you’re joining us in our hospitality areas and are thinking about putting on an early bet or two, we’ve got you covered – here are the early favourites for all the key races at Royal Ascot 2024.

When is Royal Ascot?

It’s almost time for the classiest horse racing festival of the calendar. Royal Ascot gets underway on Tuesday 18th June, with punters dressing to impress while hoping to catch a glimpse of the royal family.

With five days of spectacular horse racing action to look forward to, you can enjoy it in style with our exclusive hospitality packages.

Day 1 – Tuesday 18th June
Day 2 – Wednesday 19th June
Day 3 – Thursday 20th June
Day 4 – Friday 21st June
Day 5 – Saturday 22nd June

Who are the favourites for the big races?

Queen Anne Stakes

The Queen Anne Stakes is a Group 1 race and traditionally gets the festival underway. Triple Time rode to glory last summer but don’t expect that to happen again – there hasn’t been a repeat winner in this particular contest since Dean Swift completed a double in 1907.

The early favourite is Big Rock, who has been ridden by Aurelien Lemaitre in each of his last eight races. He’s yet to run this year but he came out on top in his debut Ascot appearance last October, triumphing in the Queen Elizabeth II Stakes.

Elsewhere, a Frankie Dettori favourite could do well. Frankel sire Inspiral has been paired with the legendary jockey for all but one of her career races. She’s won her last three, which included beating Big Rock by 1 ¼ lengths at Deauville last August.

Prince of Wales’s Stakes

With £1,000,000 in prize money, the Prince of Wales’s Stake is the most valuable race of the festival. The winning slice last year went to the team of Mostahdaf, who raced home first thanks to the guidance of Jim Crowley.

King of Steel leads the early betting after impressing as he won the 2023 Champion Stakes in Dettori’s triumphant final race on UK soil. Despite King of Steel’s pedigree, he came fifth in his final race of last year, with fellow Prince of Wales contender Auguste Rodin taking the glory.

In fact, Auguste Rodin has come out on top on four separate occasions when facing King of Steel. All eyes will be on their battle as they continue their competitive rivalry at Ascot. Elsewhere, Al Riffa is set to make his UK debut in the race, having come fourth in his season opener last weekend.

Ascot Gold Cup

One of the most iconic races in world horse racing returns to Ascot this year, and with it so does a former champion. Courage Mon Ami raced to glory a year ago and is looking to do so again this time around.

The last repeat winner of the Gold Cup was Stradivarius, who completed three in a row back in 2020. Like Stradivarius, Courage Mon Ami was ridden to glory by Dettori. But with the Italian now enjoying life across the pond, the John and Thady Gosden star will have a new rider.

Courage Mon Ami last ran at York back in August and is likely to come up against stablemate Gregory at Ascot, who won the Queen’s Vase at the festival in 2023 before coming third in the St Leger at Doncaster.

While there’s a long way to go before the race, the current market favourite is Kyprios, who won the Gold Cup in 2022. He made a winning return at Queenstown last weekend and is expected to go well this year.

Kyprios only raced twice in 2023 but enjoyed great success the year before. He won all six of his races with Ryan Moore, including the Ascot Gold Cup, as well the Goodwood Cup, where he saw off the challenge of four-time winner Stradivarius.

Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes

Khaadem stole the spoils in this race last time out. Looking to claim the crown for the first time is Chain of Lightning, who leads the betting having won two of her four outings so far this year.

Dettori rode Kinross to seventh in this contest last year, having come eighth in 2022. The gelding will be looking to challenge this time and may see his fortunes change under new stewardship.

Meanwhile, Art Power will also be competing in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes. He won the British Champions Sprint Stakes last time out, edging rival Kinross by a neck – he’ll be looking to continue his fine form here.

Everything you need to know about the Grand National 2024

The world will be watching Aintree on Saturday afternoon as some of horse racing’s biggest stars go head-to-head in the Grand National. While all eyes will understandably be on the iconic showpiece race, the three-day festival gets underway on Thursday.

Racing fans both in Liverpool and watching on TV will be treated to 21 thrilling races, with hundreds of horses and jockeys looking to make a name for themselves. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the event.

The Grand National

Having first taken place in 1839, the Grand National has become one of the world’s most prestigious races over the last 185 years. Run over around 4 miles and 2 ½ furlongs, horses will need to navigate 30 testing fences before reaching the winning post.

Countless famous horses and jockeys have been victorious in the race over the years, with Red Rum arguably the most well known of all. The Irish horse notably won back-to-back races in 1973 and 1974, before coming back to complete the hat-trick in 1977. Remarkably, Red Rum finished second in the two intervening years.

Following animal rights protests disrupting the race last year, there have been a number of changes implemented to ensure the safety of the horses. The field has been reduced from 40 to a maximum of 34, which minimises the risk of horses falling.

The race will now begin from a standing start instead of a rolling one, while the first fence has also been brought forward slightly. Both of these measures will reduce the speed of the horses during the start of the race. Similarly, fence 11 has been reduced in height, as has the drop on the landing side.

This year’s Grand National will get underway at 4pm, rather than the traditional 5:15pm start. Reigning champion Corach Rambler is looking to become the first horse to secure back-to-back nationals since Tiger Roll five years ago.

Derek Fox rode to victory a year ago, edging 2 ½ lengths clear of runner-up Vanillier, who is back to try and go one better than last time out. The pair will face stiff competition from the Willie Mullins trained I Am Maximus, who won the Irish Grand National in 2023.

Grand National race schedule

Thursday 11th April – Opening Day

1:45pm – The Close Brothers Manifesto Novices’ Chase
2:20pm – The Boodles Anniversary 4-y-o Juvenile Hurdle
2:55pm – The William Hill Bowl
3:30pm – The William Hill Aintree Hurdle
4:05pm – The Randox Foxhunters’ Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase
4:40pm – The Close Brothers Red Rum Handicap Chase
5:15pm – The Goffs UK Nickel Coin Mares’ Standard Open NH Flat

Friday 12th April – Ladies’ Day

1:45pm – The Huyton Asphalt Franny Blennerhassett Memorial Mildmay Novices’ Chase
2:20pm – The William Hill Handicap Hurdle
2:55pm – The TrustATrader Top Novices’ Hurdle
3:30pm – The My Pension Expert Melling Chase
4:05pm – The Randox Supports Race Against Dementia Topham Chase
4:40pm – The Cavani Sartorial Menswear Sefton Novices’ Hurdle
5:15pm – The Alder Hey Handicap Hurdle

Saturday 13th April – Grand National Day

1:20pm – The William Hill Handicap Hurdle
1:55pm – The Turners Mersey Novices’ Hurdle
2:30pm – The William Hill Handicap Chase
3:05pm – The JRL Group Liverpool Hurdle
4:00pm – The Randox Grand National Steeple Chase
5:00pm – The My Pension Expert Maghull Novices’ Chase
5:35pm – The Weatherbys nhstallions.co.uk Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race

Grand National hospitality

Giddy up and enjoy the racing from the best seats in the house with Engage’s exclusive hospitality packages. We offer three different options. The Tiger Roll Suite is a marquee that offers views of the parade ring, a four-course lunch, complimentary drinks, premier course admission and plenty more.

Meanwhile, you can enjoy the same benefits plus restaurant entertainment and a private balcony in the Sunloch Restaurant. Finally, the Horse & Groom is Aintree’s very own pub that’s situated above the weighing room and overlooks the parade ring.

Enquire today to enjoy a three-course pub lunch, reserved grandstand seating, a complimentary bar and a Jockey Club tipster. All of our hospitality packages offer car parking, afternoon snacks and the best views the racecourse has to offer.

Grand National Horse

Horse Racing Hospitality

Grand National dress code

If you’re wondering what to wear in our hospitality suites, look no further. Aintree racecourse operates a smart casual dress code, although they encourage visitors to dress to impress. No offensive fancy dress is permitted, nor are any sports team colours or kits.

How to get to Aintree Racecourse

If you’re planning on driving to the festival, Aintree racecourse is located on the A59, just a mile from the M57 and M58. Follow the A59 to Liverpool and the yellow signs will direct you to the car parks. Spaces for the car parks can be booked online.

For those travelling by train, frequent Merseyrail services from Liverpool Central station will get you to Aintree station in just over seven minutes. The station is located opposite the racecourse.

Cheltenham Festival 2024: Everything you need to know

Hold your horses – the Cheltenham Festival is less than a week away! Horses, jockeys and fans from all over the world are set to flock to Gloucestershire for the iconic event, with four days of incredible racing on the agenda.

With 164 years of history behind it, the Cheltenham Festival is one of the most prestigious race meetings in the world. It boasts 14 Grade 1 races, including the Cheltenham Gold Cup, which Galopin Des Champs and Paul Townend are looking to win for the second year running.

There may be an upset though, with Fastorslow and Shishkin looking to mount a challenge. It’s set to be an incredible race and for the best views of the finish, why not enjoy the day from the comfort of our ICON facility?

Our exclusive package offers a balcony view, where you can enjoy a Guinness (or two!) from the complimentary bar just in time for St Patrick’s Day. As well as that, you’ll also be treated to a four-course lunch, expert tipsters and racing legends to keep you entertained.

The action gets underway next Tuesday and as the anticipation grows, we’ve broken down everything you need to know, including a horse we think has a big chance in each race (prices correct as of Tuesday 5th March)!

Cheltenham Festival race schedule

The festival gets underway on Tuesday 12th March and if you want to see the world’s finest racehorses from the best seats in the house, you can make the most of our exclusive hospitality packages.

Tuesday 12th March

1:30pm – The Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle – Firefox 5/1
2:10pm – The My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy – Hunter’s Yarn 6/1
2:50pm – The Ultima Handicap Steeple Chase – Twig 20/1
3:30pm – The Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy – State Man 2/5 (Boring we know!)
4:10pm – The Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle – Lossiemouth 4/7
4:50pm – The Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle – Pacini 25/1
5:30pm – The Maureen Mullins National Hunt Novices’ Chase – Corbetts Cross 2/1

Wednesday 13th March

1:30pm – The Gallagher Novices’ Hurdle – Handstands 12/1
2:10pm – The Brown Advisory Novices’ Steeple Chase – Fact to File 4/5
2:50pm – The Coral Cup Hurdle – Ballyadam 25/1
3:30pm – The Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase – El Fabiolo 4/9
4:10pm – The Glenfarclas Cross Country Steeple Chase – Minella Indo 2/1
4:50pm – The Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Handicap Chase – Unexpected Party 16/1
5:30pm – The Weatherbys Champion Bumper – You Oughta Know 9/1

Thursday 14th March

1:30pm – The Turners Novices’ Chase – Ginny’s Destiny 3/1
2:10pm – The Pertemps Network Final Hurdle – Gowel Road 20/1
2:50pm – The Ryanair Steeple Chase – Envoi Allen 7/2
3:30pm – The Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle – Crambo 6/1
4:10pm – The TrustATrader County Plate – Theatre Man 7/1
4:50pm – The Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle – Jade De Grugy 5/2
5:30pm – The Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup – Cool Survivor 12/1

Friday 15th March

1:30pm – The JCB Triumph Hurdle – Sir Gino 4/6
2:10pm – The Country Handicap Hurdle – L’Eau Du Sud 12/1
2:50pm – The Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle – Largy Hill 20/1
3:30pm – The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup – Galopin De Champs 5/4
4:10pm – The St James’ Place Festival Challenge Cup Open Hunters’ Steeple Chase – Ferns Lock 11/4
4:50pm – The Mrs Paddy Power Mares’ Steeple Chase – Dinoblue EVS
5:30pm – Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle – Quai De Bourbon 4/1

Cheltenham Festival dress code

If you’re taking advantage of one of our exclusive hospitality experiences at Cheltenham, please be aware that there is a dress code in operation. Luckily it’s not the same as the jockeys, so leave your silks at home and get ready to dress to impress.

Men must wear a suit or jacket with a tie. Meanwhile, ladies should wear smart attire and while hats are optional (and classy!), they’re not compulsory. Fancy dress is not allowed.

Getting to Cheltenham

If you’re using public transport, Cheltenham Spa train station is four miles from the racecourse. Don’t worry, there’s no need to walk in your high heels – a shuttle bus service is in operation for £5 return and there are taxis available too.

Those driving from the north should exit the M5 at junction 9 and continue via Evesham Road (A435). Take a left into Southam Lane and enter the North Car Park via entrance 10. If you’re coming from the south, leave the M5 at junction 11, follow the A40 and A4013 and the signs for ‘Green Route’ will take you to the racecourse.

The ones to watch at this year’s Cheltenham Festival

They say the first sign of spring is the emergence of daffodils but for sports fans, it’s the start of the Cheltenham festival. Horse racing’s biggest event returns next month, with thousands of excited punters set to flock to Gloucestershire for the four-day event.

Ahead of the famous festival, we’ve taken an early look at all the key races and which horses are likely to be contenders.

When is Cheltenham?

The festival gets underway on Tuesday 12th March and if you want to see the world’s finest racehorses from the best seats in the house, you can make the most of our exclusive hospitality packages.


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Who are the favourites for the big races?

Cheltenham Gold Cup

One of horse racing’s most iconic races returns to Cheltenham next month and reigning champion Galopin Des Champs is the favourite to retain his crown. Paul Townend rode the star to glory last year and the pair are in good form having secured a second successive Irish Gold Cup last week. Willie Mullins is looking to win the Gold Cup for the fourth time having secured back-to-back victories with Al Boum Photo in 2019 and 2020.

Their likeliest competitor is Fastorslow, who has got the better of Galopin Des Champs twice in recent months. But Fastorslow, who came second in the Handicap Chase last year, had no reply as he was left in Galopin Des Champs’ wake at Leopardstown over the weekend.

Shishkin is also targeting Gold Cup success and will look to race into form in the Denman Chase at Newbury on Saturday. Nicky Henderson’s contender fell at the second last on his latest outing in the King George on Boxing Day. Meanwhile, Bravemansgame and Conflated return to the field having finished second and third in the Gold Cup a year ago.

Champion Hurdle

Just like the Gold Cup, the reigning champion is back to defend their title in the Champion Hurdle. Having won it last year, Constitution Hill and Nico de Boinville will reunite and they’re in strong form following a dominating performance in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day.

But State Man is out for revenge. Mullins’ horse came second to Constitution Hill last year and will be desperate to make amends this time around. The seven-year-old has won all four of his races since, including the Irish Champion Hurdle last weekend.

Zanahiyr did well to finish third in last year’s event but is unlikely to threaten again, while Mullins’ Lossiemouth could challenge.

Queen Mother Champion Chase

Another pair of rivals will go head-to-head in the Queen Mother Champion Chase in the form of El Fabiolo and Jonbon. The pair finished first and second in last year’s Arkle, with Mullins’ El Fabiolo coming out on top by 5 ½ lengths.

Ridden by Townend, he’s the favourite to go all the way again having won all three of his races since, including the Dublin Chase. Meanwhile, Jonbon is well practised against his opponents. He’s seen off challenges from fellow Champion Chase contender Edwardstone twice recently, while he suffered a narrow defeat to Elixir De Nutz last month.

Energumene has been victorious in the last two editions of the Champion Chase but will be denied the chance of a hat-trick having been ruled out through injury.

Stayers’ Hurdle

Sire Du Berlais was the shock 33/1 winner in last year’s Stayers’ Hurdle, ridden by Mark Walsh. The 12-year-old will run again this time around but is unlikely to repeat the feat.

Stablemate Teahupoo was third that day and is the favourite to come out on top this time. Gordon Elliott’s prospect has only run twice since the Stayers’ a year ago, winning just once. However, that victory came at the expense of Impaire Et Passe, who would have been among the favourites if he was racing this year.

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