Kokova Magazine

The Source was delighted to be invited into the Royal Enclosure for Ladies Day at Royal Ascot, on the 16th June 2011, where we experienced an exhilarating day of racing and indulged In The Finest Culinary Creations that The Waterside Inn at The Panoramic had to offer.

We arrived on a truly British wet and windy Thursday morning with high expectations that were totally fulfilled. From the moment of our arrival we were treated like royalty. We took a chauffeur driven buggy from the car park to the entrance, where we were greeted and ushered through without a wait.

The entire enclosure was very impressive and a buzzing atmosphere surrounded its stunning sculptures and vast array of niche bars and restaurants.

The Waterside Inn, which holds three Michelin stars, is a fabulous restaurant and was overflowing with laughter and a sense of anticipated excitement. We were greeted with Champagne, a drink which seemed to flow all day.

A real sense of patriotism could be felt all around us when everyone eagerly gathered onto the balcony, directly above the race course finish line, for a glimpse of Her Majesty The Queen, as the royal procession swept across the race course.

The mouth-watering food was prepared by Chef patron Alain Roux. When you sit down to a meal of this caliber you expect the best and that is exactly what we got. Each course was well chosen and divine, leaving you enthusiastically anticipating the next dish. The main course of beef wellington was the best we had ever eaten and the meal culminated with a delicious dessert of a chocolate creation which was truly satisfying.

As if the five amazing courses were not enough we were further treated throughout the day to an array of various delights - from a selection of traditional British sandwiches to sweet temptations which included strawberries and cream - all served by an elegant staff, taking care of our every whim.

When the 10 minute bell sounded informing all that a race was due to commence the atmosphere was spiked with adrenaline and pure excitement. Everyone rushed to the balcony, where each one of us urged ‘our horses’ on with screams and shouts of encouragement.

We won two of the races we bet on, which may have had something to do with the insider tips we managed to cadge from Willie Carson when he joined our table for a chat!

Prices at The Waterside Inn at The Panoramic, start from £827.00 and includes the following: -

• Royal Enclosure guest badge
• Reserved table for the day (exclusive tables of 10 or shared tables for smaller groups)
• Champagne reception with canapés
• Five course luncheon
• Selection of fine wines
• Selection of liqueurs, including LBV port
• Full afternoon tea with strawberries and cream
• Complimentary bar throughout the day including Champagne (until 30 minutes after the last race)
• One car park label per couple
• Racecard
• Hostess service
• Buttonhole
• Television viewing
• Betting facilities
• Royal Ascot magazine
• Racing newspaper

At a first glance you may see the cost of attending this event is as a little extravagant but Royal Ascot is well worth the treat - from the fabulous food and great service to the superb racing and entertainment it is an experience which should not be missed.

Things you should know:
Travel and traffic to the racecourse during Royal Ascot is very busy. What would normally be a one hour car journey took nearly three hours, so leave plenty of time (or get a helicopter!)

The car parks are situated a long walk from the entrance. Ascot do supply buggies for transport, however these can take quite a while to arrive so on wet and windy days walking is the only option. Ascot regulars will tell you to take a pair of willies for this part and leave them at the cloakroom on arrival.

The train station is only a five minute walk from Ascot and is highly recommended for ease of entry/exit.

The dress code for the Royal Enclosure is strictly adhered to so ensure you observe the rules before attendance to avoid refusal of entry.

For further information or to book please contact: 0870 727 4321