Cowdray Park Polo Club: A guide to the polo season in West Sussex

Of all the English sports, polo is a true countryside favourite. Every year, from April to September, weekends and holidays become a chance to revel in the sporting world. In West Sussex, the summer months are dedicated to polo cups and tournaments, with Cowdray Park Polo Club at the heart of the action. Where else could sheer excitement be combined so seamlessly with a laid-back atmosphere?

With a relaxed, friendly feel, the Midhurst Town Cup is a local favourite. Each June, thousands of guests are welcomed to Cowdray for this mix of world-class polo and family fun. The day includes two high-goal polo games, alongside a wide range of off-pitch attractions – from tractor rides to demonstrations. If you’re visiting with children or you’ve never been to a polo match, it’s a warm and welcoming environment for your first dip into the sport.

Where to stay: Make it a family adventure with a stay at The Gogs; our quirky twin lodges just outside Petworth.  

Cowdray is known as “the home of British polo”, and if you attend its annual Gold Cup, you’ll easily see why. This prestigious event marks the pinnacle of the European polo season. As the final of the British Open, the cup will see two remaining teams competing for victory. With high stakes and high drama, it draws visitors from all over the world. And in 2026, for the first time, the day will begin with the final of the British Ladies Open – making this a fixture not to be missed. 

The British Ladies Open is one of the most exciting developments in recent years, recognising and celebrating women's polo at the highest level. In 2026, the final will take place on Gold Cup day at Cowdray — an unmissable double-header for any polo fan.

Where to stay: Near Petworth, the majestic Langham Manor is conveniently close to Cowdray and ideally placed for countryside breaks. 

If you can’t make it to one of the major events, there’s plenty more to attend. Up to the 20th of September, Cowdray hosts weekend fixtures. Tournaments include the Queens Cup, Duke of Sutherland, and Challenge Cup. Teams are rated by their shared handicap, meaning the higher the handicap figure, the more skilled players are likely to be. 

Where to stay: Our collection features a number of properties in and around Midhurst and Petworth. At Brambling Lodge, you’ll find polo fields right on your doorstep, while Greenoaks has stabling available on request. And, in the South Downs countryside, both Hunters and Fallows are just a short drive from Cowdray Park. 

• Book ahead: some events are very popular, so it’s best to secure your tickets well in advance.
• Dress for laid-back elegance: unlike some other sports, polo welcomes a smart/casual code. You’ll be walking on grass, so flat shoes are a sensible choice. However, do steer clear of shorts if you’re entering the members’ enclosure.
• Plan a picnic: you’re welcome to bring your own food, but if you like the idea of simply sitting back and letting the day unfold, you can order a picnic hamper from the Cowdray Farm Shop. For comfort, we suggest packing a waterproof-backed blanket or folding chairs.
• Familiarise yourself with the rules: you don’t have to be a polo expert to enjoy spectating, but if you’d like to follow what’s happening, you could take a look at Cowdray Park Polo Club’s guide to the game.

Cowdray Park is located just outside Midhurst, in the heart of West Sussex. It's easily reached by car from London (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A3), and Haslemere is the nearest mainline rail station (around 9 miles away).

Staying locally is highly recommended for the major summer events traffic can build up on match days, and spending a night or two in the area means you can enjoy the full atmosphere without any rush.

Polo season is the perfect excuse to explore everything that makes this corner of West Sussex so special. Some highlights:

• Petworth House & Park (National Trust) — one of England's finest country houses, just a short drive away
• Midhurst town — a beautiful market town with independent shops, cafes and the ruins of Cowdray House
• The South Downs — exceptional walking and cycling country
• Goodwood — the home of Glorious Goodwood and the Festival of Speed, just 10 miles south

If you're joining us in the area, browse our luxury holiday homes in West Sussex and find the perfect base for your stay.