Royal Ascot was a grand affair with many members of the monarchy gracing the event on the second day. The Queen herself led the way, with the stands filled with enthusiastic racegoers. In the royal box, Camilla entertained her guests, although the Princess of Wales and the King were notably absent.
Among the attendees were the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, who were celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. Sophie was accompanied by her father, Christopher Rhys-Jones, while the Princess Royal was seen with her daughter Zara Tindall and her husband, former rugby player Mike Tindall. The Yorks were also well-represented, with Princess Beatrice and her partner Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, as well as Princess Eugenie and her spouse Jack Brooksbank in attendance. Sarah, Duchess of York, who had made a surprise appearance with the royals at Sandringham on Christmas day, was also present.
The Prince of Wales arrived in a carriage with Camilla, and his in-laws Carole and Michael Middleton were invited to join the royal party at Royal Ascot. This marked their first major public appearance since the announcement of Kate’s cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Kate, who is undergoing chemotherapy following abdominal surgery, shared that she is making progress in her treatment but still faces challenges.
As the royals mingled in the parade ring, Prince William was intrigued by a tassel on Eugenie’s hat and shared a light-hearted moment with his cousins. Zara greeted her family with her usual warm hugs, while her husband engaged in friendly conversation with other members of the royal family. In the royal box, Beatrice and Eugenie enjoyed a glass of Pimms, a classic summer drink.
Other notable guests at the event included Andrew Lloyd Webber, who had recently been knighted as a Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter. The theatre impresario, known for hit musicals like The Phantom Of The Opera and Cats, was accompanied by his wife. Away from the royal box, actress Elizabeth Hurley posed for the cameras during her visit to Royal Ascot.