Surrey KT18 5LQ
What it is: The Derby has been the world's most prestigious flat race since 1780. Some £20 million in stud fees is
at stake. King Edward VII's horse Diamond Jubilee was a popular winner in 1900. The Queen regularly attends, although
it remains her ambition to lead her horse into the Winners'Enclosure; the closest she came to winning was in 1953, herCoronation year, when her colt, Aureole, was second.
Further Information: Tel: 01372 464348; fax: 01372 748253; email: epsom@rht.net.
Website: www.epsomderby.co.uk
Getting there: Train from London Waterloo
or Victoria to Epsom Town Station. Alternatively, both
Tattenham Corner and Epsom Downs stations are within
reasonable walking distance. If driving from London, take
the M4; transfer to the M25 south; take the A217 at
Junction 8 and follow the AA signs. Expect heavy traffic.
Tickets: Book online at the derby Day website. There are discounts for
advance booking. Credit-card booking line: 01372 470047.
Dress: Smart for the Queen's stand. Binoculars.
Accommodation: Visitors not wishing to stay in London should try the Burford Bridge Hotel,
tel: 01306 884561, or the White Horse Hotel, tel: 01306 881138, notable historic hostelries.
Royal Ascot Race Meeting
Date: 17 - 21 June, 2003.
Venue: Ascot Racecourse, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7JN
What it is: Unbeatable racing in the Turf's most elegant thoroughbred surroundings (Ascot racecourse is owned by
the Sovereign). The Queen and members of the Royal
Family attend all five days. The Royal party arrives each
day before the the first race in open carriages drawn by
Windsor Greys, driving on to the course to the Royal Box
in the main stand. Between races they mingle with jockeys
and horses in the paddock. If you are fortunate you may
have been invited to join the Queen's Windsor Castle house
party for the week. Entrance to the Royal Enclosure is
strictly controlled from St James's Palace by the course
administrator and first-time applicants require sponsorship
from someone who has been present in the Royal Enclosure
for at least eight years. There are however excellent facilities for those denied entry to the Royal Enclosure, though
advance booking is necessary for this major social event.
Each day at 2pm there is a Royal Procession.
Tickets:Book online at
www.hersboxoffice.com
Website: www.ascot-authority.co.uk
Getting There: Ascot is 45 miles from London and can be approached from the M4 via A332 (junction 6), or from
the M3 via A332 (junction 3; recommended) Expect to tailgate in company
with chauffeur driven Rolls Royces and Bentleys. Join thousands of penguins wearing top hat and tails at London/Waterloo for the journey to
