British summertime is in full swing and with that comes the end of the Royal Ascot—one of the U.K.’s most important annual social events.
The affluent area of Ascot, 48 kilometer outside of central London, gets packed once a year for the five-day event with Londoners, royals and international socialites alike descending on the small village for the Royal Ascot horse races. The event, which ends today, goes beyond the horses, though, as it’s also the fashion event of the year, with a strict dress code.
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Main highlights of the dress code for ladies include wearing a hat (and many go all out with chapeaus that impress) and having a dress that hits at the knee or just below; as for the gentlemen, a top hat and waistcoat are a must. While many come to watch the hat extravaganza as much as the horses, we’ve looked beyond both to provide a selection of the most fashionable, luxurious homes and developments in Ascot. After all, those who just won big at the races may find themselves suddenly in the market for a mansion.
The average price for a detached home in the area was just under £1.3 million, according to 2016-17 statistics collected by HM Land Registry.
Location: Titlarks Hill, Sunningdale, Ascot
Price: £15 million (US$19 million)
Details: A true luxury staple fit for royalty, this property uniquely blends classical colonial design with the contemporary interior features. Located on one of Sunningdale’s most exclusive roads, this property is still under construction. The 17,000-square-foot mansion will be spread over two floors and have staff quarters, an elevator, and a generously sized leisure complex that includes a sauna, steam room, gym, indoor pool and a treatment room. It is walking distance to the town center of Sunningdale and just a short train ride away from the center of London. Other highlights include the grand vestibule that will have 11-foot-ceilings and a gallery landing. It will also have have a separate bar and cigar lounge.
Location: Berroc End, Buttersteep Rise, Ascot
Price: £6.5 million (US$8.3 million)
Details: This property is also in the construction stages but is poised to be one of the grandest in the area, set on 3.5 acres of land. The compound will feature everything for leisure, including both indoor and outdoor swimming pools and tennis courts. Developers also have permits to add a 3,500-square-foot basement that could contain a state-of-the-art cinema, gym and spa. Staff quarters will be located above a four-car garage situated separately from the 10,000-square-foot country mansion. The house will have three floors built for spacious family living and outdoor entertainment despite the rather unpredictable British summer weather.
Location: Larksmead House, Titlarks Hill, Sunningdale, Ascot
Price: £6.5 million (US$8.3 million)
Details: A newly built house that seamlessly blends the outdoor and indoor lifestyles, this home has one of the most enviable positions, not only because it backs onto the Sunningdale Golf Course but also because it is within walking distance of Sunningdale Village, which has many local shops and cafes. For commuters, it’s within close distance to Sunningdale station that takes you directly to Waterloo, London. There are multiple riding and polo clubs in the vicinity and excellent schools like Eton College, Wellington College and St. Mary’s. This mansion has been decorated in pastel tones that enhance the property’s open plan.
Location: St. Marys Road, Sunninghill, Ascot
Price: £4.8 million (US$6.1 million)
Details: This stunning six-bedroom residence was designed with specific attention to making sure it is authentically British. The classical British architecture exterior is complemented by modern interior facilities. It is situated on a private road within a mile of the Ascot racecourse, making it far enough away from the craziness of the races but close enough that should you want to, you can walk to the join the fun. The estate is set on an acre of land with carefully landscaped grounds, staff quarters, and a three-car garage. Inside, there is a chef’s kitchen, top grade security system and other luxury amenities throughout, including en-suite bathrooms for every bedroom.