 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (February 2022) |
 | |
 | |
| Location | Ascot, Berkshire, England |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 51°24′58″N 0°40′37″W / 51.41611°N 0.67694°W |
| Owned by | Ascot Racecourse Ltd |
| Date opened | 11 August 1711 Grandstand builds: 1793 1822 1839 1902 1962 20 June 2006 |
| Date closed | 2004-06 |
| Capacity | 80,000 |
| Course type | Flat National Hunt |
| Notable races | The Gold Cup |
| Attendance | 600,000 (yearly) |
| Official website | |
Ascot Racecourse is a dual-purpose British racecourse, located in Ascot, Berkshire, England, about 25 miles west of London. Ascot is used for thoroughbred horse racing, and it hosts 13 of Britain's 36 annual Flat Group 1 horse races and three Grade 1 Jumps races. The current racetrack's grandstand was completed in 2006.
Ascot Racecourse is visited by approximately 600,000 people a year, accounting for 10% of all UK racegoers. The racecourse covers 179 acres (72 ha) leased from the Crown Estate and enjoys close association with the British Royal Family. Ascot was founded in 1711 by Queen Anne and located approximately 6 miles (9.7 km) from Windsor Castle.
Royal stands have been in use at the sports venue since the late 18th century. The main grandstand has been demolished and rebuilt on many occasions. The first public grandstand was built in 1839 and was again redeveloped over the centuries. Her Majesty Elizabeth II used to visit the Ascot Racecourse quite frequently, and the seating area was reconstructed in 1961 and named in her honour, but the stand was demolished and replaced from 2004.
Ascot currently stages 26 days of racing over the course of the year, comprising 18 flat meetings between April and October, and 8 jump meetings between October and March. The Royal Meeting, held in June each year, remains the highlight of the British summer social calendar attracting over 350,000 spectators for the week. The prestigious King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes is run over the course in July.