I was on the Northern Line by 8:30 a.m., en route to Waterloo to catch a train to Brookwood. I gave myself enough time to get breakfast at Waterloo. I had a cappuccino and a pain au chocolat at Black Sheep Coffee, which is located in the station’s lower level. I bought fruit and a bottle of water at M&S.
The station was crowded as many people in fancy dress were heading to Ascot.
My friend, Katrina, was waiting for me at the station. We walked to her house for a quick cup of tea, and then off to Windsor. She packed the picnic for us.
Duke’s Lane is the most informal place to see members of the Royal Family, especially up close and personal. No press photographers, but many people with cameras. Most of the people who come to Duke’s Lane are locals or know how to get the special parking permit. It’s a lottery for the parking permit, so you don’t know which days you’ll get to attend. My friend, Katrina, usually gets three of the 5 days of Royal Ascot.
However, you do not need a parking permit to attend Duke’s Lane. There are parking areas in Ascot, where you can walk up Duke’s Lane to get a good spot as the carriages make their way down toward the Racecourse. Most people arrive before noon, set up tables and blankets for picnics. Every day, the Royal School has a bake sale. I always buy a slice of Victoria Sponge Cake. It was a very hot day when I went with Katrina, which meant no cream in the cake. Still tasted good.
We got a good spot by the rope, and enjoyed our lunch and chatting with friends. The four carriages arrive first, about 1:45, followed by the cars with the royals. Everything happens fast with the royals getting out of the vehicles (to cheers) and walking a few feet to get into the carriages, and then the procession starts. I do not know how I missed Princess Anne. I was more focused on the Duchess of Wellington. I was on the wrong side to get a good shot of the King.
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| The Duchess of Wellington |
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| The big story was the third carriage with Peter Phillips and his girlfriend, Harriet Sperling |
Few people in the garden, and very few ducks, and no pheasants. Too hot. Before setting out to the gardens, I spotted a Marlene Rose.
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| My Rose |
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| This photo and the three photos below are on display in the restaurant/gift shop building. |
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| I am unfamiliar with this bird |
We spent about 2.5 hours at The Savill Garden. Katrina recommended we go to Kingfisher on the Quay in Camberley, not too far from Farnborough. A great choice.
After dinner and dessert and great conversation, Katrina drove me back to the Brookwood Station for my final night in London.
