When we hear the term ‘destination wedding’, we naturally think of travelling abroad. In fact, the term simply refers to a wedding that takes place away from your hometown, and there is actually no need to cross borders to find a desirable destination for your special occasion.

According to Confetti’s latest research survey to 4,500 couples in partnership with The National Wedding Show, almost a third of couples originally planning a wedding abroad are now choosing to stay in the UK rather than wait until international travel is permitted without limitations. With so much to celebrate in relation to fabulously British destinations, here’s a reminder of why we think you’ll fall in love with weddings at Ascot Racecourse.

The epitome of British finesse
It doesn’t get much more iconic than a world-famous racing venue when it comes to epitomising typically British finesse. A destination that captures the attention of fashionistas, royals and avid sporting fans every summer, Ascot is no stranger to hosting some of the most eminent events on the planet. Situated in the heart of the home counties, you’re greeted by views of the iconic Grandstand. A sweeping walkway past the Victorian Bandstand guides guests to the Parade Ring, an atmospheric spot for welcome drinks in the summer sunshine.

Ascot Racecourse echoes regal and refined undertones throughout its 179-acre backdrop for weddings that illustrate elegance, history and an inescapable sense of occasion. A venue made famous as a hub of world-class horse racing, rippling excitement and buzz, Ascot Racecourse is also an embodiment of calm, quiet and grace outside of race days, but maintains its sense of grandeur year-round, enabling the venue to host all manner of styles and wedding themes.

Embracing variety
Ascot Racecourse is a microcosm of the variety this country offers. From embracing varied cultures, to the lesser celebrated seasonal variations our weather system sees, we certainly have it all. Ascot’s sheer size and flexibility means endless opportunity when it comes to creating your truly bespoke occasion. From small family gatherings to large, lavish banquets, Ascot can materialise any vision into a show-stopping reality. The array of elegant suites available onsite, each with its own story and personality, means that intimate occasions are not out of the question despite the vastness of the venue’s size. Offering both contemporary and traditional décors, the venue can be easily transformed to provide classic layouts for dinner, cabaret and dancing, or more informal settings for buffets and lounge-style receptions.

Fine British cuisine
Fine dining is something the home counties do very well, and after such a long period of hospitality closures, guests are ready to have their taste-buds tantalised more than ever. Our award-winning catering partner, 1711 by Ascot, is ready to showcase the best of British, working with local and ethical suppliers for unbeaten quality produce. Whether a sumptuous buffet, a seated dinner, a tempting array of bowl food, outdoor barbeques or the added theatre of chef’s stations, couples can expect a bespoke culinary experience. Beyond the tradition of wedding food, additional appetisers, sweet carts or mixologists can be explored, while all dietary requirements will be accounted for.

There’s nothing more quintessentially British than a jug of fruit-infused Pimms overlooking the racecourse, or why not incorporate our national favourite afternoon tea into your wedding catering plans? We’ll treat your guests like royalty in the very grounds where the Royals themselves frequent annually.

We’re proud to embrace our heritage, and it’s the little details alongside the expansive grandeur of Ascot that make weddings at our destination so special. From an iconic ‘Bowler Hat’ welcome for guests, to an invitation to return to the racecourse to celebrate your anniversary at an Ascot raceday, there are so many reasons to get excited about weddings at Ascot.

To find out more information about hosting your wedding with Ascot, visit www.chooseyourwedding.com/venues/ascot-racecourse