The grand opening of Royal Ascot was a truly heartwarming experience.
Arriving at the Berkshire racecourse for the first time, I immediately made my way to the parade ring to secure a front-row view of the famous carriage procession.
Dating back to 1711, the event has featured the procession since 1825, when King George IV led four coaches up the Straight Mile.
Surrounded by fellow royal enthusiasts, I eagerly awaited the two o’clock royal appearance, promptly followed by the Queen Anne Stakes, the first race of the day.
King Charles and Queen Camilla led the carriage procession at Royal Ascot on Tuesday
MailOnline’s senior features writer Rebekah Absalom attended the races for the first time
King Charles and Queen Camilla were the first to arrive, accompanied by their close friends, the Duke and Duchess of Wellington.
There was some uncertainty regarding Charles’s attendance due to his ongoing cancer treatment, but it was encouraging see him looking well and waving to the jubilant crowd.
Camilla appeared radiant in a cobalt coat dress designed by her go-to couturier, Fiona Clare, adorned with Prince Albert’s Diamond and Sapphire Brooch.
She expertly accessorised with a Philip Treacy hat, her reliable Eliot Zed shoes and a Smythson clutch.
Although I had previously seen the royal couple at Sandringham Flower Show in 2022, there was something profoundly moving about witnessing them in person, especially considering Charles’s recent diagnosis.
I felt a deeply emotional sense of respect for the King and Queen – and, judging by the reactions of those around me, it seemed I was not alone in experiencing this.
Rebekah headed straight to the parade ring upon arrival
Lady Gabriella Windsor, whose husband Thomas Kingston died in February, was seated beside Princess Anne in the second carriage
As the second carriage approached, I was pleasantly surprised to see Lady Gabriella Windsor seated beside Princess Anne.
On the opposite side were Anne’s son, Peter Phillips, and John Warren, the late Queen Elizabeth’s racing manager, who now oversees the King’s horses.
Lady Gabriella, displaying resilience after the tragic loss of her husband Thomas Kingston in February, was making a second appearance in a matter of days after her outing at Trooping the Colour at the weekend.
It was heartwarming to see the support she received from other royals, including a bear hug from Zara Phillips.
The royal stunned in a floral Catherine Walker dress, complemented by a Philip Treacy hat, Bottega Veneta clutch and Jimmy Choo pumps.
Horses preparing to race are shown to crowds in the parade ring
There are expansive picnic lawns for guests to enjoy their own food, if the weather permits, though it must be kept in a cool bag or hamper
Thousands of racegoers gathered to watch the first race of the day
Indeed, it was the impeccable attire of the royals that set the tone for the day.
Thousands of other racegoers showcased colourful ensembles and exquisite headwear – often from LK Bennett, one of Royal Ascot’s official sponsors.
The high street brand has created a capsule collection of clothing, shoes and accessories for of the four enclosures, whether it be the prestigious Royal Enclosure or the more relaxed Windsor Enclosure.
In March, Ascot unveiled its annual lookbook under the artistic direction of British fashion designer, Daniel Fletcher, offering visitors plenty of style inspiration.
This marked a significant and historic change for the British racing institution as it appointed a creative director for the first time in its 300-year history.
Having recently interviewed milliner Jess Collett, responsible for the exquisite coronation headpieces worn by the Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte, I was thrilled to wear her ‘Cavendish’ hat on day one of Royal Ascot.
Visitors are able to get up close to the racecourse
Rebekah caught a glimpse of several horses before the racing commenced
Visitors at Royal Ascot on Tuesday were treated to blue skies and sunshine
There are plenty of photo opportunities at Royal Ascot
It paired perfectly with a vintage-inspired polka dot dress from Beulah and an Aspinal of London bag.
I completed my outfit with mid-heeled sandals from LK Bennett’s coveted collection, saving a pink floral dress with statement puff sleeves for later in the week.
Meanwhile, my husband sported his favourite Roderick Charles herringbone suit, with a complementary Moss waistcoat, Liberty tie and Loake loafers.
We savored the ambiance – a blend of attendees placing bets and enthusiastically cheering for their chosen horses, while others sat back and indulged in the plentiful food and drink options.
The four enclosures house various eateries and bars, ranging from gourmet fine dining to food stalls on the green.
There are also expansive picnic lawns for guests to enjoy their own food, if the weather permits, though it must be kept in a cool bag or hamper.
We noticed that Moët & Chandon champagne, another sponsor, was readily available, tempting us to have a glass or two.
Following the final race – the Copper Horse Handicap, brilliantly won by Belloccio (William Buick) – the day concluded with traditional singing around the Bandstand.
Hundreds of revelers joined in, singing along to a medley of hits, including ‘Angel’s by Robbie Williams and Frank Sinatra’s ‘I Love You Baby’.
It created a fantastic atmosphere, ensuring the day ended on a high note, regardless of race outcomes.
