With top hats, tailcoats and, of course, the thoroughbreds, the Royal Ascot horse race week is one of the most anticipated and exclusive events on the London socialite's calendar.

The event demands a strict dress code for men – including a signature top hat that can cost up to $25,000 – and the women's hats, including flamboyant fascinators that can reach up to a metre in diameter, make it a fashion event as much as an equestrian one.

Foreigners require the permission of their embassy to attend. After all, several members of the Royal Family are always in attendance. The Queen, for her part, hasn't missed a day since 1944.

CBC's John Northcott, however, scored a ticket this year, and is off to the races. Watch his report from London's Kings Road in the video at the top of the story.