Ascot
Sights and landmarks near Ascot
Located within the Royal Borough of Windsor and steeped in history, Ascot is surrounded by an abundance of iconic institutions, cultural landmarks and incredible natural scenery. Many of these are recognised the world over as emblems of British heritage, from Windsor Castle to Eton College. Whether you’re looking to explore the legacy of Britain’s great rulers, or simply want to partake in the sport of kings, the enduring sights and attractions in this two-day itinerary are certain to deliver.
Day one
Start the day at Hampton Court Palace, just 35 minutes’ drive from the hotel by taxi.
Hampton Court Palace
Immerse yourself in Tudor history – and then lose yourself in the famous maze – at Hampton Court Palace. While Henry VIII’s Great Hall is undoubtedly an incredible sight, there’s much to explore, with original furniture and other interiors offering a fascinating and rare glimpse into how people lived throughout the palace’s working life.
Then, take a 35-minute drive to Windsor Castle.
Windsor Castle
A family home to British monarchs since the 11th century, Windsor Castle offers fascinating insight into British history. The State Apartments contain art from the Royal Collection, with works by Van Dyck & Rubens, while temporary exhibitions highlight a tighter focus on key facets of British history.
St George’s Chapel is housed within the grounds of Windsor Castle, so it’s just a two-minute stroll to get to the next stop of the day.
St George's Chapel
St George’s Chapel is the final resting place of 10 sovereigns, including Henry VIII and Charles I. Its Gothic architecture – including the stunning vaulted ceiling – and stained glass windows are breathtaking and, as it’s a working chapel, visitors are welcome to join the religious services.
Then, take a 20-minute walk or 10-minute drive across the river to get to Eton College.
Eton College
Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI, Eton College has provided the secondary educations for generations of aristocracy, including 19 British prime ministers. Explore the Museum of Eton Life – one of the school’s three fascinating museums that open to the general public on Sunday afternoons – and regularly changing exhibitions at the two galleries. Visits to the latter are by appointment only.
From the college, Eton Antiques is a 15-minute walk.
Eton Antiques
Found in an 18th century townhouse on Eton High Street, Eton Antiques is a beloved institution selling high-end antiques, as well as a curated collection of contemporary pieces. With contacts throughout the global antiques trade, if they don’t have your ideal piece in store, they can help you source it, making a trip here well worth the effort.
To get back to the hotel, it’s a 25-minute drive.
Day two
Start your day at Ascot Racecourse, just 10 minutes from the hotel by car.
Ascot Racecourse
Home to the annual Royal Ascot, Ascot Racecourse is one of the UK’s most famous racecourses, not least because of its close ties to the Royal Family. However, don’t feel that you have to visit during that famous week to witness horseracing at its highest level; there are “Racedays” throughout the year. The grounds host other events too, such as the Spring Garden Show.
Then, take a taxi or jump in your car for the 15-minute journey to Windsor Great Park.
Windsor Great Park
Comprised of 4,800 acres of parkland, including a Deer Park, Windsor Great Park provides a stunning landscape in which to walk, run, ride or cycle. Once a hunting forest for William I, and home to some renowned and ancient oak trees, there are few spaces that balance a profound atmosphere of calm with such a sense of history.
Set within Windsor Great Park, Guards Polo Club is just a short walk through the park.
Guards Polo Club
This prestigious polo club ranks some of the world’s best polo players among its supporters. However, you don’t have to be a member, or even know a great deal about this most thrilling of sports, to enjoy one of its many fixtures throughout the season that runs annually from May to September. The atmosphere alone ensures an unforgettable, quintessentially British experience.
Continuing your walk through Windsor Great Park. Virginia Water can be found on the park’s southern edge.
Virginia Water
A stroll around Virginia Water, a vast lake surrounded by woodland, reveals a number of interesting finds, including the Leptis Magna Ruins, actually imported from the ancient Libyan city of Leptis Magna in the 19th century, a 100ft Totem Pole and an ornamental cascading waterfall.
Then, make your way to RHS Garden Wisley, 25 minutes from the lake by car.
RHS Garden Wisley
With its expansive collection of plants, RHS Garden Wisley lays claim to being one of the great gardens of the world. Rightly so, the variety on offer across its 240 acres is truly inspiring. From the woodland garden of Battleston Hill to the endangered species housed in the gargantuan Glasshouse, the amateur horticulturalist will find much inspiration here. Last entry to the gardens is at 3.30pm.
A 30-minute drive will then bring you back to the hotel.
All journey times are approximate and subject to variation.
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