Attending Polo Matches in England

Polo has been played in England since the early 1800's.

It is considered by historians to be the oldest ball game in the world. Polo was first played in Persia(Iran) as early as 500 BC. It was first devised as a training program for elite cavalry units such as the king's guard. Sometimes we still see videos of versions of polo played by Tibetan tribesmen, tribes of the Turkomen and others with teams of up to 100.

Polo is played in some 80 countries with England, the U.S., and Argentina being the leading nations. Polo was considered a sport of the Nobility in early years. This is likely because of the high cost of polo ponies and the training of the ponies. The last member of the current British royal family who played polo regularly seems to be Prince Charles. The sport has become more popular in recent years. There are a number of polo clubs in England and ample opportunity to attend matches.

For the Self Catering Spectator:

You can be a participant by helping with the "divot stomp" during the intermission.

You can find the time and location of matches in your area via internet, local newspapers, and asking the locals.

Take your picnic lunch with you. Polo is a tailgating sport.

Dress can be casual and suitable for the weather. If you are attending one of the more prestigious matches, you might dress up a bit(ask the locals). Hats are advised for protection from the sun. Sturdy shoes are advised so that you can join the "divot stomp" during the intermission. The divot stomp is when the fans take the field to stomp down the divots dug up by the horses during play.

Also, there are clubs which arrange for visitors to play polo in England whether, novice or accomplished.

We have yet to attend a polo match in England, but have enjoyed the in the U.S. Polo is on the must list for our next visit.