For many British racing fans, attending the Ascot race events is a highlight of the summer social calendar. From the elegant attire to the thunder of hooves down the straight mile, Royal Ascot blends heritage, style, and world-class horse racing in a uniquely British celebration. But once the final race is run at Ascot, is there a reason to extend your racing season with a trip across the Channel to the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in Paris?
The short answer is yes, and for many reasons. But whether it’s truly worth the journey depends on your passion for racing, appetite for travel, and desire to witness two of the world's greatest flat racing spectacles within a single season. Here's an in-depth look at whether making the trip from Ascot to Paris is worth your time, money, and effort.
Two Iconic Events, One Racing Calendar
Royal Ascot and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe aren’t just ordinary fixtures — they’re the pinnacle of the flat racing season in their respective countries. Each represents more than just sport; they are cultural events rich with tradition, competition, and international flair.
Royal Ascot, held in June, is known for its strict dress codes, royal patronage, and week-long celebration of the racing elite. It’s a place where Britain’s heritage meets modern glamour, drawing celebrities, socialites, and hardcore racing fans alike.
On the other hand, the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, often simply called ‘the Arc’, takes place in early October at ParisLongchamp and is widely regarded as Europe’s most prestigious horse race. While Ascot showcases a season's worth of talent, the Arc is the ultimate test — a 2,400-metre dash that crowns the finest middle-distance thoroughbred in Europe.
Attending both events within a few months offers the unique experience of following the sport’s most elite competitors across borders and immersing yourself in two very different but equally exhilarating atmospheres.
Travel Logistics: A Feasible Journey
The good news is that getting from the UK to Paris is relatively straightforward. With multiple travel options available, hopping over to France for a weekend isn’t as daunting as it may seem.
By Train:
- Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord takes just over two hours.
- Trains run frequently, and prices can be very reasonable if booked in advance.
By Plane:
- Direct flights from major UK airports to Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly.
- Flight time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Several low-cost carriers offer competitive prices.
By Car and Ferry/Eurotunnel:
- Drive to Dover and cross via ferry or Eurotunnel to Calais.
- Continue the drive to Paris — roughly three hours from Calais.
Whether you’re going for the weekend or combining the Arc with a longer Parisian holiday, travel is accessible and can be managed without breaking the bank.
Comparing the Atmosphere: British Pomp vs French Passion
One of the major draws of doing both Ascot and the Arc in the same season is the contrast between the two experiences.
Royal Ascot:
- Quintessentially British, steeped in pageantry and tradition.
- High fashion, morning suits, fascinators, and formal wear.
- Social events as much as sporting ones.
Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe:
- Continental sophistication, with a more relaxed dress code.
- Electric, almost football-like atmosphere among punters.
- Cosmopolitan crowds and a palpable sense of racing purity.
For many racegoers, experiencing both styles within one year feels like completing the full circle of European horse racing. From sipping Pimm’s at Ascot to enjoying champagne and oysters in Paris, the cultural differences add to the richness of the journey.
The Horses, the History, the Spectacle
The Arc regularly draws the top horses from across Europe — often those that have competed at Ascot earlier in the year. It’s not unusual for winners or high performers from Ascot to line up again in Paris, making it a thrilling continuation of the summer’s narrative.
For instance:
- Derby winners often target the Arc as their end-of-season goal.
- International entries bring in horses from Japan, Ireland, and even Australia.
- The race itself has been won by legendary horses like Sea the Stars, Treve, and Enable.
Following these equine stars from Ascot to Paris can add a deeper appreciation of their campaign and performance.
The Value of Experience
If you're already attending Royal Ascot, the idea of extending your racing calendar to include the Arc may appeal as the ultimate fan experience. But what about the practical value?
Cost Considerations:
- Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe tickets vary in price depending on grandstand access and hospitality.
- Budget travel options keep costs manageable.
- Accommodation in Paris can be costly, but deals can be found outside the city centre or via short-term rentals.
Emotional and Social Rewards:
- A chance to mix with passionate racing fans from around the globe.
- Continued exposure to high-level flat racing.
- An unforgettable end to the season with a continental twist.
From a purely emotional and experiential standpoint, the value is immense. The Arc is a bucket-list event for most racing enthusiasts, and coupling it with Ascot gives you a complete season narrative.
Hospitality and VIP Options
Both events offer outstanding VIP and hospitality packages, and for those who prefer to enjoy the races in comfort, this is another compelling reason to consider making the trip. At Ascot, private boxes, gourmet dining, and elegant enclosures provide a regal experience. Meanwhile, at ParisLongchamp, the hospitality suites boast Michelin-quality cuisine, panoramic views of the racecourse, and VIP access that makes the experience truly premium.
Consider these benefits of hospitality upgrades:
- Priority seating and views of the finishing straight.
- Avoiding crowded public areas.
- Premium food and beverage service.
- Networking opportunities and celebrity spotting.
Whether you prefer traditional British luxury or modern French chic, both events deliver a first-class day at the races.
Timing Your Travel: A Reasonable Gap
There’s a good few months between the Ascot races events in June and the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe in October. This makes it easier to plan your diary, budget, and logistics. It also allows for recovery time if you're treating each event as a special occasion — rather than back-to-back races.
This gap works to your advantage:
- Book early for better prices on travel and hotels.
- Enjoy summer in the UK and autumn in Paris.
- Time to research horses, form, and betting strategies.
Many racegoers appreciate the seasonal change too — Ascot is often sunny and celebratory, while the Arc feels crisp and climactic, with a dramatic sense of finality to the season.
Is It a Pilgrimage for the Purists?
For those who live and breathe flat racing, travelling from Ascot to the Arc feels like a natural step. The chance to see the crème de la crème of European horses compete in the continent’s grandest racing event is hard to resist. It becomes a pilgrimage of sorts — from the Royal Enclosure at Ascot to the historic stands at ParisLongchamp — following the sport from its elegant summer beginnings to its epic autumn finale. There’s also the chance of witnessing history. The Arc has seen three-time winners, huge betting upsets, and unforgettable finishes. It’s where legends are crowned and careers are defined.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Ultimately, whether it’s worth making the trip to Paris after Ascot depends on your personal enthusiasm for the sport, your travel appetite, and your love of exceptional experiences. But for most, combining these two iconic race meetings is more than just a holiday — it’s a celebration of racing at its very best. If you’re already marking your calendar for Ascot, why not go one step further and book your Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe tickets early? You’ll not only enjoy a phenomenal weekend of racing in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, but you’ll also round out your season with memories that go far beyond the track.
