EW Guide to Summer Hospitality 04



There is nothing quite like it in the social calendar - an atmospheric cocktail of priceless horses and the most extraordinary fashion parade in the world. This year, due to a £185m redevelopment, Royal Ascot has been relocated - hook, line and milliner - to York Racecourse. The format will be the same as in former years but rest assured, Ladies Day on Thursday 16th June will shine with an ever-more-impressive show of extravagant hats and head design.

Do	Get a bit clued up how the betting system works. Each way and to win will land you with quite different cash payouts. Look out for the Royals as they proceed in their open carriages before the racing starts each day. Wear a hat covering the crown of your head if you are a lady attending the Royal Enclosure. In the hospitality areas, hats are recommended but not obligatory. Gentleman are required to wear morning dress with a waistcoat and top hat in the Royal Enclosure although a suit or jacket, both with a tie are acceptable in the hospitality areas. Bring a small radio if you want to get the expert commentary on how likely your horse is to finish.
Don't	Drive, if you can avoid it! If you do, there are a number of car parks offering easy access to the course, however you must book your Car Park labels in advance. The parking restrictions around the racecourse will be strictly enforced so if you do not have an official Car Park label – public transport is highly advisable and heavily encouraged by the organisers! If you are not in a Hospitality suite, don't bring food into the racecourse enclosures - picnics are to be enjoyed before and after racing in the car parks. Wave your hands about near the bookies - you might be mistaken for a betting expert!
Directions:	York Racecourse is just outside the city of York, with good links from the M1 and A1. York's mainline station is less than two miles away from the racecourse. York is easily accessible by train with London only 1hr 52 minutes away and Edinburgh 2hrs 6 minutes. There is a shuttle bus service which will run along a dedicated route between the station and course. Taxis will also be available and the pedestrian route will be clearly marked.