Visiting the Cowdray Polo Gold Cup – A Quintessential British Summer Tradition
Cowdray Polo Gold Cup – A Day at Britain’s Most Prestigious Polo Event
There are few summer sporting traditions in Britain as glamorous (or as quintessentially English) as the Cowdray Polo Gold Cup. Held each July in the rolling countryside of West Sussex, it’s a heady mix of world-class polo, elegant socialising, and good old-fashioned summer fun.
I’ll admit, I nearly didn’t make it this year. The classic British summer storm had rolled in and the skies looked determined to dampen everyone’s spirits. But in a last-minute decision, I jumped in the car and drove to Cowdray Park Polo Club - and I’m so glad I did.
From the hilltop parking, the view was pure summer magic: the lush polo fields framed by Cowdray’s iconic castle ruins, the distant hum of the crowd, and a giant Ferris wheel glinting in the sunshine that had thankfully broken through.
A Brief History of the Gold Cup
Cowdray Park Polo Club has been the home of British polo since 1910, when the sport was first introduced to the estate. The Veuve Clicquot Gold Cup, now known as the Cowdray Gold Cup, began in 1956 by the 3rd Viscount, and has grown into one of the most prestigious polo tournaments in the world. It attracts the finest international players and teams, including some of the Royal Family members (most notably Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and King Charles III).
Beyond the sport itself, the Gold Cup is a major social occasion, drawing royalty, celebrities, and polo fans from around the globe. It’s as much about the atmosphere - picnics on the lawn, champagne flowing, sun hats and linen suits - as it is about the action on the field.
My Day at the Polo
I began by wandering through the shopping village, a tempting collection of fashion, jewellery, and lifestyle stalls. My eye was immediately drawn to the Ralph Lauren vintage and second-hand stall, filled with pieces I could picture living in my wardrobe forever, especially the knitwear.
Polo and summer call for a Pimm’s, so I grabbed one before heading to the food trucks, where I settled on a Greek wrap and salad. The variety was impressive - from gourmet burgers to seafood platters - catering to every appetite.
I’d opted for a ticket to the Lawn Enclosure, and I’d recommend it to anyone visiting. The elevated view is far superior, and the marquee bar - adorned with fresh flowers and giant stone vases bursting with blooms - felt effortlessly elegant. The bars served everything from crisp Gusbourne English sparkling wine (one of the sponsors) to craft cocktails.
The Main Event
The final match was between Team Kazak and Team La Dolfina / Scone. I felt especially privileged because La Dolfina includes the likes of Adolfo Cambiaso (The G.O.A.T) - considered one of the greatest polo players of all time.
The chukkas were fast-paced and fiercely contested, with several tumbles that kept the crowd gasping. It was neck-and-neck right up to the final seconds, when La Dolfina clinched the win in a nail-biting finish.
History was made that afternoon: La Dolfina became the first father-daughter team to win in the history of the Gold Cup. The crowd surged onto the field to celebrate, cameras clicking as the trophy was lifted high.
With the tension of the match over, I lingered in the sunshine, taking a spin on the Ferris wheel and treating myself to a classic 99 ice cream - the perfect sweet ending to the day.
Travel Notes for Visitors
Where is Cowdray Park Polo Club?
Cowdray Park Polo Club is located in Midhurst, West Sussex, in the south of England. It’s often called “The Home of British Polo” and is surrounded by the scenic South Downs National Park. The area is dotted with charming English villages, historic pubs, and the atmospheric ruins of Cowdray House.
Getting There
From London: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by car.
By Train: Take a train from London Victoria to Haslemere (around 55 minutes), then a 15-minute taxi to Cowdray Park Polo Club.
Nearest Airports:
London Gatwick (LGW) – about 50 minutes by car.
London Heathrow (LHR) – about 1 hour 10 minutes by car.
London City (LCY) – about 1 hour 40 minutes by car.
When to Visit
The Cowdray Polo season runs from late April to September, with the prestigious Gold Cup Final held in mid-July each year. Tickets range from general admission to premium enclosures offering marquee seating, bar access, and elevated views.
What to Expect at the Gold Cup
Polo Matches: Fast-paced, highly skilled play featuring some of the best international teams.
Shopping Village: Boutique stalls offering everything from fashion and jewellery to homewares and local produce.
Food & Drink: A variety of gourmet food trucks, Pimm’s bars, and premium wine options - including Gusbourne.
Family Fun: Amusements such as a Ferris wheel, lawn games, and open spaces perfect for picnics.
Insider Tip
If it’s your first time, consider upgrading to the Lawn Enclosure for a better view, exclusive seating, and a more refined atmosphere. Bring a hat and sunglasses - even in England, the sun can be strong in July!
