Ascot Opens New Enclosure

Ascot racecourse has announced the opening of the new ‘Village Enclosure’ for Royal Ascot 2017 (Tuesday 20th – Saturday 24th June).

The first new enclosure to open at the Royal Meeting for more than 100 years is located on the inside of the track looking back towards the final Furlong with Ascot’s Grandstand as a backdrop.

The new space is a ‘pop-up’ summer scene comprising informal dining experiences, bars, and live music throughout the day and into the evening.

The Village Enclosure sits between the Queen Anne Enclosure and Windsor Enclosure in terms of price point and the Queen Anne Enclosure dress code will apply. Its introduction will allow Ascot to reduce capacity in the existing public enclosures, Queen Anne Enclosure and Windsor Enclosure.

The Village Enclosure is open on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday of Royal Ascot, with an exclusive after party until 9pm.

Hospitality upgrades are available within the Village Enclosure including The Restaurant in the Village, Villiers in the Village and Gazebos in the Village, the latter which has a private entertaining space for groups of up to 16 guests.

Juliet Slot, commercial director, Ascot Racecourse said: “We have gradually reduced the capacity in the Queen Anne Enclosure from 25,000 in 2011 to 19,500 this year and capacity in the Windsor Enclosure from 24,000 in 2011 to 18,000 this year. Opening the new Village Enclosure allows us to continue making these reductions while accommodating the demand for the Royal Meeting and appetite of a section of our customer base for this more contemporary option.

“Placed in a prime position for the thrilling final furlong on the inside of the track, The Village Enclosure celebrates contemporary British summertime with al fresco eateries, creative bars, live music throughout the day as well as a selection of hospitality options including the Villiers Club and the Restaurant in the Village.”