Royal Ascot 2020: Ascot Racecourse chefs share themed cocktail recipes to celebrate virtually

The Royal Ascot would have been attended by thousands this weekend, but due to COVID-19 it’s being held without a crowd for the first time since its inception in 1711.

The five-day event featuring eight horse races is a highlight of summer for many British sporting fans, including Queen Elizabeth and countless other celebrities and royals.

In 2019, the event was attended by Kate Middleton and Prince Wiliam, Victoria Pendleton, Natalie Dormer, Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice, as well as Zara and Mike Tindall.

It’s a chance for royals and celebrities to mingle while dressed to the nines, following a strict dress code. The dress code requires ladies to wear a head-piece and men aren’t allowed to wear colors and must wear socks.

To celebrate this year’s virtual Ascot, Zara and Mike Tindall shared a photo on Instagram showing that they were still following the dress code and were dressed up to enjoy the races.

To make your own virtual Royal Ascot weekend feel more authentic, the Ascot Racecourse chefs put together some themed cocktails to enjoy while watching the races.

For a fun themed take on mojito try the Front Runner Mojito. To make this drink you’ll need to follow the recipe below.

1. Fill a 16oz glass with ice cubes

2. Pour 50ml of Havana Club 3year old Rum

3. Add 15ml of sugar syrup

4. Slowly add 200ml Fever-Tree Mexican Lime Soda

5. Garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig

If you're looking for a refreshing summertime cocktail, the Mediterranean Jewel is the drink for you.

1. Fill a 16oz glass 2/3 full with ice cubes

2. Pour 25ml of Beefeater Blood Orange Gin and 25ml of Lillet Blanc – Wine-Based Aperitif

3. Slowly add 200ml Fever-Tree Refreshingly Light Mediterranean Tonic Water

4. Garnish with an orange wheel

And for those who like a fruity twist on a Gin and Tonic, try the Royal Ascot Blush.

1. Fill a 16oz glass with ice cubes and add two strawberry halves

2. Pour 50ml of Beefeater Pink Gin

3. Slowly add 200ml Fever-Tree Refreshingly Light Premium Lemonade

4. Garnish with half a strawberry