June 1st, 2021 | 
Author: Royal Ascot is the centrepiece of what is a racing festival considered by many to…
Royal Ascot History Timeline
1711
Queen Anne founds Ascot Racecourse on a area of open heathland, known as ‘East Cote’, approximately seven miles southwest of Windsor Castle.
1768
Ascot Racecourse stages its first recognisable, four-day Royal Meeting.
1793
Ascot Racecourse acquires its first grandstand, known as the Slingsby Stand, commissioned by King George III.
1807
King George III and Queen Charlotte witness the inaugural running of the Gold Cup, won by the 3-year-old Master Jackey, carrying 6st 12lb.
1822
The first permanent Royal Stand is erected, with a a precursor to the modern Royal Enclosure to its side.
1825
King George IV institutes the Royal Procession, riding up the New Mile in a coach and four.
1901
Kind Edward VII orders the Royal Enclosure to be completely rebuilt; Lord Churchill appointed as His Majesty’s Representative.
2002 Royal Ascot is extended from four days to five, to mark the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.
2004
Ascot Racecourse closes for a £220 million redevelopment.
2005
‘Royal Ascot at York’ replaces the traditional Royal Meeting.
2006
Ascot Racecourse is officially reopened by Queen Elizabeth II.
2013
Queen Elizabeth II becomes the first reigning monarch to win the Gold Cup with Estimate, trained by Sir Michael Stoute. Her Majesty is presented with the perpetual trophy by her son, Prince Andrew, Duke of York.
2020 Royal Ascot takes place behind closed doors and, for the first time in her reign, in the absence of Queen Elizabeth II.