Living in Ascot

Ascot is known for its educational excellence, making it a significant draw for families. The area is served by a mix of highly regarded state and independent schools, catering to all age groups.

Primary Schools

South Ascot Village Primary School (Ofsted: Good, 2019) is well-regarded for its inclusive ethos and close community ties. Ascot Heath Primary School (Ofsted: Good, 2022) remains highly sought after for its academic standards and extracurricular opportunities. St Francis Catholic Primary School offers a faith-based education and also receives favourable reviews. In nearby Sunninghill, St Michael’s CofE Primary (Ofsted: Good, 2017) is recognised for supporting student development within a nurturing environment.

Secondary Schools

Charters School (Ofsted: Outstanding, 2017) in Sunningdale is highly regarded in the region for its achievement and student support. Heathfield School, an independent girls’ boarding and day school, has an excellent academic reputation. The nearby Ranelagh School (Ofsted: Outstanding, 2022) in Bracknell is another popular option for families willing to travel a short distance.

Colleges and Sixth Forms

Ascot is close to Bracknell and Wokingham College, both offering a variety of A-Level and vocational courses for school leavers. Charters School also features a respected sixth form.

Universities

There are no universities directly in Ascot, but Royal Holloway, University of London in Egham is under 6 miles away, providing a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. University of Reading and University of Surrey are within a 30-minute drive.

Ascot offers excellent transport links, both for local journeys and commutes to major cities. Ascot railway station is centrally located, providing frequent direct services to London Waterloo (journey time approx. 55 minutes), Reading (approx. 30 minutes), and Guildford (approx. 35 minutes). The local bus network connects Ascot with surrounding towns including Windsor, Bracknell, and Sunningdale.

By road, the area is served by the A329 and A30, with the M3 and M4 motorways within easy reach for fast routes to Central London, Heathrow Airport, and the West Country. Heathrow Airport is about 15 miles away, typically reached in under 30 minutes.

Key commute times from Ascot:

• London Waterloo: approx. 55 minutes by direct train
• Reading: approx. 30 minutes by train
• Heathrow Airport: approx. 30 minutes by car
• Guildford: approx. 35 minutes by train
• Windsor: approx. 20 minutes by car or local bus

Ascot is widely viewed as a safe and secure place to live, with crime rates generally lower than the national average for England. The town benefits from a visible police presence, and community policing initiatives work proactively with residents and local organisations.

Neighbourhood Watch schemes are active in several parts of Ascot, and the area’s affluence contributes to well-maintained public spaces and a strong sense of local vigilance. Minor offences do occur, as with any area, but overall perceptions of safety are high. Regeneration and good lighting in public areas continue to enhance safety and deter petty crime.

Parking in Ascot is relatively convenient compared to other towns near London. Many residential streets offer unrestricted on-street parking, while several public car parks cater for visitors to the town and racecourse. Larger homes often feature private driveways or off-road spaces.

During major race days or events, pressure on local parking can increase, especially near Ascot Racecourse. Resident permit schemes operate in the most affected areas. Road access is straightforward, with the A329, A30, and major routes such as the M3 and M4 providing direct links to nearby towns and cities.

• Bracknell – approx. 10 minutes via A329 (5 miles)
• Windsor – approx. 20 minutes via A332 (8 miles)
• Reading – approx. 30 minutes via A329(M) (18 miles)
• Guildford – approx. 35 minutes via A322 and A3 (20 miles)
• London – approx. 45 minutes via M3/A322 (27 miles)

Ascot’s culinary scene is a blend of classic British and contemporary options, with an emphasis on quality ingredients and stylish presentation. Popular restaurants such as The Golden Retriever and Fego Ascot attract both locals and visitors. The area also features a selection of family-friendly cafés, bistros, and several quality takeaways for those seeking more casual dining.

Pubs like The Thatched Tavern and The Royal Foresters Hotel provide atmospheric settings and traditional fare, while cocktail bars and lounge-style venues offer social spaces in the evenings. Nightlife is generally low-key and sophisticated, with more lively options available in nearby Windsor or Bracknell. The annual race meetings at Ascot bring a festival atmosphere, featuring pop-up bars and gourmet stalls.

The community in Ascot is close-knit, with a friendly yet reserved atmosphere. Residents often participate in local societies, church groups, and volunteer initiatives, fostering a sense of belonging and shared pride. The area hosts regular events, including farmers’ markets, Christmas fairs, and the high-profile Royal Ascot, which draws crowds from across the UK.

Ascot offers an appealing outdoor lifestyle with easy access to scenic walks in Swinley Forest and Windsor Great Park. Parks and public gardens create welcoming spaces for recreation, and the area’s golf clubs, sports grounds, and tennis courts encourage an active lifestyle. The harmonious mix of tradition and modernity makes Ascot’s local life engaging for all ages.

School quality: Ascot is extremely popular with families due to its excellent selection of schools, both state and independent, many of which achieve strong Ofsted results and academic reputations.

Parks and green space: Families benefit from proximity to Swinley Forest, Windsor Great Park, and a variety of well-equipped playgrounds and local parks ideal for outdoor play and relaxation.

Childcare: There are several highly rated nurseries and childcare providers in the area, including day nurseries and childminding services, making it easy for parents to balance work and family life.

Safety: Low crime rates and active community watch schemes provide reassurance to families seeking a secure environment for children.

Family activities: Attractions like the nearby Legoland Windsor, horse riding schools, sports clubs, and seasonal community events ensure there is always something for families to enjoy in Ascot.

Ascot's abundant green spaces and accessible countryside make it a favoured location for pet owners. Swinley Forest and Windsor Great Park are popular choices for long walks and dog exercise, while several local parks and meadow areas cater for everyday pet recreation.

The town is home to a good selection of veterinary clinics, pet shops, and grooming services. Many pubs and cafés are dog-friendly, creating a welcoming environment for residents with pets. Renting with pets is generally feasible in Ascot, although private landlords may vary in their policies, especially in new developments.