THE Royals have arrived for the first day of Royal Ascot 2019 (Tuesday, June 18).

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined the Queen for a day at the races - taking part in Royal Ascot's famous carriage procession.

The Queen, who was dressed in blue, arrived in her carriage alongside King Willem-Alexander of The Netherlands and his wife Queen Maxima. 

The event is expected to attract around 300,000 racegoers over the next five days.

Writing in the opening day's official race programme, the Queen said: "Racing began at Ascot over 300 years ago and while much has changed, the horses remain the stars, thrilling us with their beauty, brilliance and courage.

"The quality and depth of competition at the royal meeting has also continued to prosper, with eight group one races taking place this week.

"The best horses and jockeys from across the globe are increasingly drawn to Royal Ascot, and it is truly exciting to welcome competitors from overseas, as strong international competition adds further interest and fascination."

Many have travelled far and wide to attend the opening day, including Deirdre Hemera, who travelled with her partner Bill Colgan all the way from New Zealand to be at Royal Ascot.

She said: "We will be coming for four days.

"We are staying in Reading and doing a tour around the UK and Ireland to go to the Irish Derby."

Another visitor to the races, Judith, travelled from Chesterfield.

She said: "I have been here four times and love it.

"We are also coming tomorrow - I am very excited for ti to begin but I just hope the rain doesn't get any worse!"