Afternoon Tea at Ascot Races is a special British dining experience offered during race days at Ascot Racecourse. It usually includes tea, scones, pastries, and sandwiches served in elegant lounges or hospitality areas.
Afternoon Tea at Ascot Races is one of the most charming ways to experience British tradition. Ascot is known worldwide for horse racing, fashion, and royal attendance. But many visitors do not know that the racecourse also offers beautifully prepared afternoon tea packages.
These teas include classic British treats, fine teas, and a relaxing atmosphere with views over the famous track.
If you enjoy traditional tea service, travel experiences, or cultural moments, afternoon tea at Ascot Races gives you all three. This guide explains what afternoon tea includes, how to book it, what it costs, and why it has become a popular activity among visitors from around the world.
What Is Afternoon Tea at Ascot Races?
Afternoon Tea at Ascot Races is a curated tea service offered during selected race days at Ascot Racecourse. It is usually served in private lounges, hospitality suites, or special viewing areas. It combines two well-known British traditions: horse racing and afternoon tea.
What It Typically Includes
Most Ascot afternoon tea menus include:
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Freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam
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Finger sandwiches (cucumber, smoked salmon, egg, and chicken)
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Mini cakes, pastries, and seasonal desserts
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A selection of fine teas, often from known brands
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Optional sparkling wine or champagne
The food is prepared by highly rated chefs who work with Ascot’s hospitality team, which is known for high dining standards.
How Afternoon Tea Works on Race Days:
Afternoon tea at Ascot Races is not a walk-in café service. It is part of a booked experience tied to the race events.
1. Choose Your Race Day
Popular days include:
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Royal Ascot
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King George Weekend
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Summer Mile
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Ascot Christmas Racing Weekends
Royal Ascot is the most famous event, often attended by members of the Royal Family.
2. Select Your Hospitality Package
Ascot offers different lounges and suites. Some of the well-known ones include:
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The Pavilion
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The Gallery
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The Lawn Club
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The Royal Enclosure (strict dress code; invite only)
Each location has different views of the track, service levels, and menu styles.
3. Reserve Your Afternoon Tea Time
Tea service times depend on the race schedule. Most packages include:
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Arrival welcome
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Lunch or light meal
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Afternoon tea service
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Race viewing
You can book directly through Ascot Racecourse’s hospitality partners.
What Afternoon Tea Costs at Ascot Races:
Prices depend on the event and the package. The most affordable tea options are available on non-Royal Ascot days. Royal Ascot packages tend to be premium-priced because the event is more formal and highly attended.
General Price Range
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Standard afternoon tea packages: medium price range
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Premium rooms or track-side viewing areas: higher price range
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Royal Ascot hospitality: highest price range
Costs vary based on the season and hospitality suite, but afternoon tea is considered a luxury dining experience.
Dress Code for Afternoon Tea at Ascot:
Ascot has one of the most recognized dress codes in the UK, especially during Royal Ascot.
1. For Royal Ascot
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Women: formal daywear, hats or fascinators, knee-length dresses
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Men: suits, ties, or full morning dress (depending on enclosure)
2. For Standard Race Days
The dress code is more relaxed:
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Smart casual
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No ripped jeans
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No sports clothing
Afternoon tea areas usually expect guests to dress neatly.
Why Afternoon Tea at Ascot Is Special:
Several factors make the experience unique:
1. A Historic Setting
Ascot Racecourse was founded in 1711 by Queen Anne. Its long history adds to the traditional atmosphere.
2. A Mix of Tradition and Luxury
Afternoon tea is a key part of British culture. Combining it with a famous racecourse creates a memorable experience.
3. Trackside Viewing
Some afternoon tea lounges offer views of the finishing straight, letting guests watch the excitement while enjoying their tea.
4. Expert Chefs
Ascot partners with respected hospitality providers known for their high standards of food preparation.
5. A Complete Day Out
You get:
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Racing
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Dining
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Entertainment
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Unique photo moments
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A high-quality experience
It feels like a full event rather than just a meal.
Light Evidence:
Instead of linking to websites, this article references well-known sources in natural language to support credibility:
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Ascot Racecourse’s official hospitality information confirms that afternoon tea is included in several VIP and race-day packages.
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British tourism boards often highlight Ascot as a top cultural attraction for international visitors.
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Food publications like BBC Good Food and The Telegraph Food sections have discussed the growing popularity of luxury afternoon teas across the UK.
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Travel guides such as Visit Britain frequently feature Ascot events as part of British cultural experiences.
These references align with common high-authority sources people check for travel, food, and event information.
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How to Book Afternoon Tea at Ascot:
Booking is simple:
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Visit the official Ascot Racecourse site.
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Choose your event or race day.
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Select a hospitality package that includes afternoon tea.
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Reserve your tickets in advance because popular days sell out.
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Select any add-ons like champagne or premium seating.
Third-party travel agencies and luxury event companies also offer packages that include transport, accommodation, and race-day dining.
Tips for First-Time Visitors:
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Book early for Royal Ascot, ideally months in advance.
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Check the dress code for your enclosure or suite.
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Arrive early to enjoy welcome drinks and explore the racecourse.
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Keep your ticket safe; many suites have restricted entry.
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If you have dietary needs, notify the hospitality team ahead of time