They are among the most recognisable figures at Royal Ascot, instantly identifiable in their black bowler hats and immaculate attire. They are photographed almost as often as the racegoers themselves, stand proudly beside the royal procession each afternoon and are as much a part of the Berkshire racecourse as top hats and champagne.
But behind the tradition lies a team of dedicated men and women who quietly ensure one of the world’s greatest sporting events runs smoothly.
Known affectionately as the “Bowler Hats”, Ascot’s stewards are the public face of the racecourse. Their duties stretch far beyond offering directions and checking badges. They are responsible for maintaining standards, protecting restricted areas, keeping crowds moving and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of more than half a million racegoers each year.
As Royal Ascot gets under way, the sight of Bowler Hats stationed around the grandstand, parade ring and lawns has become one of the meeting’s most enduring images.
The tradition itself dates back 176 years and has become so cherished that, when Ascot Racecourse underwent its £220 million redevelopment in 2004, trustees felt compelled to reassure racegoers that the iconic uniform would remain untouched when the venue reopened in 2006.
Ironically, the now-beloved hat was not always welcomed.
Introduced in the late 1950s as part of efforts to maintain standards at the racecourse, the requirement to wear bowler hats sparked near mutiny among the stewards. Such was the opposition that Ascot’s trustees were forced to offer pay rises to prevent strike action.
Today, however, the bowler hat is inseparable from the character and charm of the racecourse.
Five teams are deployed across Ascot’s sprawling grounds on racedays. Some welcome guests into the grandstand and hospitality areas, others patrol the lawns in all weather conditions, while specialist stewards oversee the highly sensitive equine areas around the weighing room, parade ring and horse crossings.
Although they are highly visible, Bowler Hats are not security staff. Their role is to act as calm, approachable and professional ambassadors for Ascot, escalating issues when necessary and ensuring visitors receive the highest standards of customer service.
Many have fascinating stories of their own.
Speaking previously to BBC Radio Berkshire, one steward, known simply as Leonard, explained how he came to wear the famous hat after retiring from an entirely different profession.
“I was a scientist and I gave up at 62, and wandered around the house for a couple of years wondering what to do,” he said.
“I saw they were doing interviews, I came along and applied to be a steward.”
Like many of his colleagues, Leonard found more than just a part-time role. He became part of a tradition stretching back generations.
Working days can last up to eight hours, with stewards expected to remain active and vigilant throughout. They are trained in emergency procedures, responsible for maintaining cleanliness and safety, and are often the first point of contact for racegoers needing help or information.
During Royal Ascot, their responsibilities extend to some of the most exclusive areas of the racecourse, including the Royal Enclosure and Royal Box, where they provide a discreet welcome to members and guests.
Yet despite the prestige, the Bowler Hats themselves are rarely in the spotlight.
Perhaps that is fitting. Their role is not to seek attention but to ensure others enjoy one of Britain’s most celebrated sporting and social occasions.
In a world of ever-changing fashions and modernisation, the sight of a Bowler Hat at Ascot remains reassuringly familiar.
For generations of racegoers, they are more than stewards. They are custodians of tradition, guardians of standards and one of the enduring symbols of Royal Ascot itself.
Without them, the meeting simply would not feel the same.
