Less than a mile from Windsor Forest Court, Ascot is home to the Royal Ascot racecourse which hosts world class racing and glitzy socialising on an epic scale. Girls Aloud singer Sarah Harding lives in Ascot and Marti Pellow, Wet, Wet, Wet also calls the area home.
During family race days at Ascot, children can walk, ride bikes and scoot around Ascot Heath (just be sure to check the Ascot race calendar before visiting). You can also visit Windsor Great Park or The Savill Garden which is just over 20 minutes from Ascot.
Ascot Racecourse
The world-famous Ascot racecourse is a key feature of this pretty Berkshire town, attracting over half a million visitors each year. Founded by Queen Anne in 1711, the site remains today a spectacle to behold – enormous terraced stands and immaculate grounds.
While racing dominates the main events, there are plenty of other activities for families and groups of friends to enjoy. A paved walking path runs through the whole racecourse, and many of the restaurants and bars have wheelchair access.
During jumps season and Royal Ascot, dress code is formal, with suits required for men and dresses for women. However, it’s not necessary to wear a hat.
Ascot’s wide High Street has plenty of shops, including a local supermarket, newsagent, and several high-class boutiques. Families can also enjoy Afternoon Tea or a pre-bookable picnic. The town is well served by buses and taxis, and a train station is located a short walk from the racecourse.
Ascot Heath
In Ascot, there are a variety of activities and attractions that cater to every interest. From local Rainbows, Cubs, Scouts, and Guide groups to more quirkier things like roller skating clubs or high ropes courses.
The town is also surrounded by stunning parks and green spaces that provide opportunities for outdoor exercise and activities. For instance, Windsor Great Park is a popular choice for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.
Moreover, the town is only a short drive from some of the best museums and galleries in the country. This makes it a top destination for art and history lovers.
In addition, Ascot offers plenty of shopping and dining options for every budget. However, the high property prices and expensive cost of living can make it a challenging place to live for those on a tight budget. Moreover, the town does not offer much in the way of nightlife, which may be a disadvantage for people who enjoy going out and socialising.
Windsor Great Park
Windsor Great Park, the largest Royal park in England, is home to a number of activities for children. This 5,000-acre park was first enclosed as a hunting ground in the 13th Century and today visitors can enjoy a variety of open spaces for walking, cycling, games, picnics and more. The park is full of historical monuments, ancient forests and stunning horticultural displays as well as deer and wildlife.
A popular destination is Virginia Water Lake which is a great spot for children to play. You will also find a wide range of eateries and drinks here.
In the winter the park is home to Windsor Great Park Illuminated – the perfect way to experience the park after dark with a trail of illuminations accompanied by cosy rest stops. It’s a magical evening and something the whole family will enjoy.
Windsor Castle
Located right in the heart of Windsor, this beautiful castle offers plenty to do. Visitors can explore the amazing royal collection of art pieces that include works by Hans Holbein, Van Dyck, and Rubens.
The Queen spends a lot of time here during Easter (hence the name “Easter Court”), and for a week in June when she attends Royal Ascot. You can also see her each year when the knights of the Order of the Garter parade through the castle’s lower ward before attending church at St George’s Chapel.
The whole family can walk, bike or scoot at Ascot Heath which is part of Windsor Great Park. You can also take a family-friendly walk around Englemere Pond or a wooded path at Victory Fields Recreation Ground and play in the sandpit and splash pad which are put on during the summer months. Or you can explore the vast Windsor Great Park which is home to herds of red deer and a variety of birdlife.
