It is run at Ascot each June over a distance of 2 miles, 5 furlongs and 143 yards (4355 metres).
It was formerly contested over 2 miles, 6 furlongs and 34 yards, but it was shortened as a result of the realignment of Ascot's track in 2005.
The Queen Alexandra Stakes is traditionally the last race on the final day of the five-day Royal Ascot meeting.
It sometimes features horses which ran on the opening day in the Ascot Stakes, and the most recent to win both in the same year was Simenon in 2012.
The extreme length can attract a varied field, and it often includes horses from hurdle racing.