Ladies Days have captured the imagination of the British public for years, but it might surprise you that the initial idea for these events stretches all the way back to the early 1800s. So, what is Ladies Day and why should you visit?

A Taste of the High Life

For those who are passionate horse racing fans, the good news is that Ladies Day often features some high-profile races. Whether you prefer to place your bet with the good old-fashioned bookies in front of the track, or would rather opt for sports betting online for a wider variety of markets, the excitement and adrenaline surrounding a race is nonpareil. What’s more, you can gain a little extra insight with sports predictions from trusted tipsters, maximising your chances of landing a winner.

Ladies Day is epitomised by the elegant outfits on show. Ladies dress to the nines in beautiful dresses and extravagant fascinators, while men don their Sunday best, often accompanied by top hats. It is not uncommon to see designers and reputable high-end fashion representatives scanning the crowds with the hopes of picking out the most impressively dressed visitors.

While horse racing is a major pull, Ladies Day is equally renowned for the social aspect, with an abundance of entertainment on offer and plenty of charitable causes at the heart of the action. Live music, five-star food, and flowing champagne all help to give punters a taste of the high life.

Where Does Ladies Day Come From?

It dates back much further than most realise. The initial concept appeared in the 1820s when the historic Royal Ascot Festival offered discounted tickets to women to increase female participation. At the time, ladies dressing impeccably was the social norm; those who attended the races were dressed to impress.

Queen Victoria is thought to be the inspiration behind the array of sophisticated hats on show. She was seen wearing an array of different hats at various meets, giving birth to a tradition that still stands strong today.

Luxurious Ladies Day: Where to Attend

Such is the modern popularity of Ladies Day, there are many iconic horse racing festivals that feature on their calendar. Perhaps the most famous is Royal Ascot, as that is where it all began. Not only can visitors experience a vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and entertainment, but they can also enjoy the pinnacle of the sport. Ladies Day takes place on day three at Ascot, which also happens to be Gold Cup day. The Ascot Gold Cup is one of the most coveted races in the sport, with the world’s best jockeys and horses competing for the prestigious prize.

Those looking to get a taste of Ladies Day can also attend Cheltenham or Aintree Festival. These are two major meetings in the horse racing calendar. Or if you fancy combining Ladies Day with your next holiday, you can check out Sa Sa Ladies’ Purse Day in Hong Kong or the Prix de Diane in Chantilly, France.