The Royal Ascot 2026: A Celebration of Tradition and Elegance
The Royal Ascot 2026 has officially begun, marking the start of a five-day social event that is one of the most anticipated in the royal calendar. From June 16 to June 20, the historic Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England, becomes the epicentre of royal activity, drawing members of the British Royal Family and notable guests alike.
This prestigious event, which has its roots in 1711 when it was founded by Queen Anne, has evolved over the centuries into a dedicated week for royal racing. It follows other major public-facing events such as Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter. Horses, horse riding, and equestrian culture have always held a special place in the hearts of the British monarchy, making Royal Ascot a cherished tradition.
Among the attendees at this year’s event were notable figures such as Golda Rosheuvel, known for her role as Queen Charlotte in Bridgerton, and Dame Mary Berry, the beloved home baker and media personality. However, for many, the main attraction was the presence of the royal family itself.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla
King Charles III and Queen Camilla were the first to arrive on Day One of the Royal Ascot 2026. They were seen enjoying the races from the Royal Box, surrounded by friends and family. Their laughter and smiles reflected their enjoyment of the event.
Queen Camilla made a striking appearance in a light blue Anna Valentine dress coat, adorned with floral embroidery. She paired the outfit with a matching Philip Treacy hat, Chanel pumps, and a bone white purse. Her son, Tom Parker Bowles, and daughter, Laura Lopes, also joined them in the box.
On Day Two, Queen Camilla opted for a cream dress coat and a matching hat, while King Charles wore a light blue vest. Their continued presence underscored their commitment to the event and their role as key figures in the royal family.
Princess Catherine’s Return
Princess Catherine made a triumphant return to the Royal Ascot 2026, glowing in a bespoke Roksanda dress. She accessorised with a pearl-embellished clutch from Anya Hindmarch and a Janet Taylor London hat with bright yellow netting. Notably, she wore Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond chandelier earrings and Princess Diana’s three-strand pearl bracelet, symbolising her connection to her family’s legacy.
Prince William mirrored her choice of bright yellow in his corsage, which appeared to be daffodils or tulips. Princess Catherine had missed the event last year due to her cancer treatment, but her return marked a significant milestone in her recovery.
Princess Anne, the Princess Royal
Known for her bold fashion choices, the Princess Royal made a vibrant appearance on Day One in a colourful dress coat with a swirling design. She paired it with a matching hat, pearl drop earrings, and a gold horse brooch—a nod to her love for equestrian events and her past as an Olympian.
On Day Two, she returned in a pastel pink dress suit, accompanied by her husband, Vice Admiral Timothy Laurence. Royalists spotted her adjusting his cravat between races, highlighting the personal and familial moments that make the event so special.
Mike and Zara Tindall
Mike and Zara Tindall were among the highlights of the event, radiating joy and camaraderie. Zara, like her mother, is a devoted equestrian and rarely misses the Royal Ascot. On Day One, she wore a lilac dress by Australian designer Rebecca Vallance, paired with an Anya Hindmarch clutch and rose pink pumps.
On Day Two, she chose a navy Leo Lin dress embroidered with lily flowers, complemented by a pale gold hat from Juliette Milinery, an Emmy Longond leather clutch, and Finlay and Co sunglasses.
Peter and Harriet Phillips
The newlyweds, Peter and Harriet Phillips, made a memorable appearance on Day One. Harriet, who recently married Peter just ten days before the event, wore a duck egg blue Suzannah London dress with a blue clutch by Anya Hindmarch and Jimmy Choo pumps. Despite the muddy conditions, her outfit remained pristine.
Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie of Edinburgh
On Day Two, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh attended the event, celebrating their 27th wedding anniversary later in the month. Duchess Sophie wore a Suzannah London silk shirt dress with a dramatic bow collar and a bespoke hat from JT Millineray.
Duke and Duchess of Gloucester
Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, and his wife, Brigitte, were present on Day One. Brigitte wore a light teal dress coat with a classic string of pearls and a refined summer hat, reflecting her elegant style.
Carole Middleton and Alizee Thevenet
Carole Middleton and her sister-in-law, Alizee Thevenet, attended Day Two of the event. Carole wore a pale pink Catherine Walker coat dress, paired with a new Catherine Walker hat and an Emmy Londone rose leather bag. Alizee, meanwhile, looked like she had stepped out of a 19th-century French novel in a white cotton dress with intricate lacing and dainty florals, completing her look with a straw boat hat.
Lady Gabriella Kingston
Lady Gabriella Kingston, the only daughter of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, made a stylish appearance in a pale blue Claire Mischevani coat dress, paired with an Aspinal of London bag.
