Royal Ascot is once again promising a “spellbinding explosion of the senses” in 2021, running this year from 15th to 19th June. Regrettably, with capacity restrictions due to Covid, the decision has been taken not to open the Village, Windsor and Heath Enclosures. However, do not despair! Your explosion of the senses can still happen with a little planning, with those you love at home. Add some additional Royal Ascot touches to make it a truly remarkable occasion to rival even the best ‘at Ascot’ events.

An Ascot host or hostess in 2021

An Ascot at Home party is your way to bring the exhilaration of this annual highlight to the very people you have missed seeing over the last year. If the roadmap to reopening continues as expected, then by the time the horses are stampeding down the track, you’ll be able to have up to 30 guests in your garden.

So, how can you make your Royal Ascot at Home party one that’s incredible?

Bringing the racetrack home

Your first step is to bring Ascot into your home. From carefully rigged up LED screens, to large garden cinematic projectors, shaded from the sun, you need to ensure that your guests can view the races in real time.

Bring in comfy seating from hired deckchairs to an array of floor cushions, and you’ll set the scene. Whilst you don’t need the 3 miles of bunting that Ascot uses every year, you do need to give some thought to bunting and flowers for the perfect English setting.

Why not also arrange your very own bookie for the day? This will add the real wow factor that sets your event apart. And with a dedicated bookie just for your guests, you’ll get personal tips and extra thrill.

Delicious dine in delights

Each year Royal Ascot clocks up some impressive figures when it comes to quintessential fine dining. They get through 56,000 bottles of Champagne, 25,000 English asparagus spears, 21,000 jugs of Pimm’s and a staggering 1,200kg of Cornish clotted cream! Catering at home can still appeal to your traditional Ascot senses, but with a little less intensity!

For a Royal Ascot at home party, Afternoon Tea is a must-have. Delicately cut and flavoured finger sandwiches, fresh scones with delectable jam and cream, and the most beautiful and delicious cakes are simply essential. From in-house caterers to delivery from some of the finest London hotels, a wonderful Afternoon Tea at home for your guests is easy to plan.

Another option is picnic delivery hampers. Let your guests indulge in the pleasures hidden within. We can organise themed picnics from Italian deli feasts to traditional English delights. But honestly, when it comes to Ascot at Home food, the world is your oyster. From fresh lobster to Angus steak, it’s time to have fun with the menu.

Refreshingly good times

Enjoy your chosen menu with a glass of peppery Champagne or a tumbler of Pimm’s bustling with fresh mint and strawberries, for a sensual transportation to the greens of Ascot.

Of course, Ascot may mean ‘cocktails’ for you. So, why not hire your own skilled mixologist for the day? Watching them shake and serve will bring a smile to everyone’s face. The right mixologist will craft Ascot-themed creations such as the Front Runner Mojito (ooh, another twist of lime please!), or a Royal Ascot Blush (strawberries and pink gin? No one will say no!).

Dress to impress

Last, but by no means least, factor in the Ascot fashion – after all, it wouldn’t be Royal Ascot without it! Having kept our eye on the trends, this year is all about sustainable fashion with a sense of celebration as we emerge from the tough year behind us.

It’s absolutely a must to consider hiring your outfit this year or think about buying pre-loved, and what a perfect way to make the most of Ascot at Home. If you’d rather buy new, then look for exquisite and talented UK-based designers with sustainable collections.

An event to rival all others

You may not be trackside, but you won’t need binoculars, and you won’t be jostling with the crowds around the bookies! With the help of Victoria James Concierge, we can create the perfect Ascot at Home race day which will be distinctive, fun and memorable.