When is Royal Ascot 2017? Ticket info, directions and dress code – all you need to know
All you need to know about this year's annual Royal Ascot races
ASCOT racecourse boasts a rich and famous history when it was founded by Queen Anne back in 1711.
Although the Berskshire race course hosts events throughout the year, Royal Ascot is the pinnacle of these.
Thousands will scramble for tickets so they can watch the five-day event unfold in June.
From the world famous Gold Cup to the Royal Procession, a trip to Ascot is a must for all race fanatics.
Here is all the information you need ahead of the highly-anticipated event this year.
What is Royal Ascot?
Royal Ascot remains Britain's most valuable race meeting which continues to attract the world's best horses from around the world to compete for a shot of glory.
The Queen has attended every Royal Meeting during her reign and is introduced to the thousands in attendance by a horse-drawn carriage with the Royal procession taking place at the start of each race day.
30 races are scheduled across five days of action opening with the Queen Anne Stakes, named after the founder of the race course.
When is Royal Ascot?
Royal Ascot is a five-day annual event that happens during the month of June.
It returns in 2017 on Tuesday 20 June and will last everyday until Saturday 24 June with six races scheduled per day.
The highlight of the races remains the famous Gold Cup which will take place on the Thursday on ladies day.
It is regarded as one of Britain's most prestigious races and thousands will flock to the three enclosures to watch the action unfold.
Other notable races include Coronation Stakes on the Friday and the Diamond Jubilee Stakes on the Saturday.
How much are tickets for Royal Ascot?
Tickets for the event are highly-sought after and don't come cheap.
Prices vary depending on the enclosure with the cheapest starting at £26 for the Windsor Enclosure on race days Tuesday and Wednesday.
The most expensive tickets remain in the Queen Anne Enclosure with ticket prices reaching £82 for the Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
When is Ladies Day at Royal Ascot?
Ladies Day on Thursday 22 June remains one of the most popular days to visit. It is known as the world's most glamorous racing day with thousands turning up in their best attire and array of hats.
It is also the Gold Cup day making it one not to be missed.
What is the Royal Ascot dress code?
If you are lucky enough to be in the Royal Enclosure, formal daywear is essential. For ladies dresses and skirts should be of modest length. Trouser suits are welcome and hats should be worn.
For males they must wear a waistcoast and tie, a black or grey top hat and plain black shoes.
For the Queen Anne enclosure and Windsor Enclosure males must wear suits whilst ladies should dress formal with a hat.
How do I get to Royal Ascot?
Royal Ascot is situated around 50 minute drive from London.
If travelling from the capital and the north take junction 6 on the M4 onto the A332 and follow signs.
From the west take junction 10 off the M4 and then onto the A329.
From the south and east, take junction 3 off the M3 and then onto the A332.
From the midlands take junction 4 on the M40 southbound and then the A404 towards the M4. Leave junction 6 on the M4 onto the A332.
By Rail - South West Trains runs a frequent service to Ascot from both Reading and London Waterloo.