Name: British Open Championship - The Gold Cup Final 2026
Start: 2026-07-19
End: 2026-07-19
Location: Cowdray Park Polo Club

Question 1

Is polo free to watch at Cowdray Park?

Accepted Answer

General admission to most match days at Cowdray Park is free. Enclosure seating and hospitality are available for purchase on Gold Cup days and select tournament finals.

Question 2

Can I bring my dog to watch polo?

Accepted Answer

Dogs are welcome at Cowdray Park Polo Club and must be kept on a lead at all times. Water bowls are available around the grounds.

Question 3

What should I wear to watch polo?

Accepted Answer

There is no formal dress code for general admission. Smart casual is recommended. For hospitality and enclosures, smart dress is expected. Flat shoes are advisable as the grounds are grass.

Question 4

What is divot stomping at polo?

Accepted Answer

Divot stomping is a polo tradition where spectators are invited onto the pitch at half time to tread down the divots (chunks of turf) kicked up by the ponies. It is a social highlight and a great photo opportunity.

Question 5

How long does a polo match last?

Accepted Answer

A polo match typically lasts around one and a half hours. It is divided into periods called chukkas, each lasting seven minutes. Most matches have four to six chukkas depending on the level of play.

Question 6

What is a chukka in polo?

Accepted Answer

A chukka is a period of play in polo lasting seven minutes. Each player changes ponies between chukkas. Low-goal matches typically have four chukkas while high-goal matches have six.

Question 7

Can beginners learn to play polo at Cowdray?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Cowdray Park Polo Academy offers lessons for complete beginners through to experienced riders. Lessons include stick and ball tuition, arena chukkas, and supervised play. All equipment and polo ponies are provided.

Question 8

What corporate hospitality is available at polo?

Accepted Answer

Cowdray Park offers private Pearson Pagodas seating up to 20 guests, the Brooks Enclosure for smaller groups, and the Lawns Enclosure for individuals. Corporate days include catering, bar service, and pitchside views. Hospitality is available on Gold Cup days and for private hire throughout the season.

Question 9

When is the Cowdray Gold Cup Final 2026?

Accepted Answer

The 2026 Gold Cup Final is on Saturday 19 July 2026 at Cowdray Park. The quarter finals and semi finals are held in the preceding weeks during July. Tickets for enclosures and hospitality are available online.

Question 10

Is there parking at Cowdray Park Polo Club?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is free parking at Cowdray Park Polo Club on all match days. Car parks are on grass fields adjacent to the polo grounds. Follow signs from Midhurst town centre or the A272.

Question 11

How do I get to Cowdray Park Polo Club?

Accepted Answer

Cowdray Park Polo Club is on the eastern edge of Midhurst, West Sussex, postcode GU29 0AQ. From London, take the A3 south then the A272 west. The nearest railway station is Haslemere (20 minutes by car). Chichester and Petersfield stations are also within 30 minutes.

Question 12

Is there food and drink available at polo?

Accepted Answer

The Clubhouse bar is open on match days serving drinks and light meals. On Gold Cup days and tournament finals, additional food stalls and bars operate around the grounds. Hospitality and enclosure tickets include catering and a bar. Picnics are welcome on the lawns.

Question 13

Can children watch polo at Cowdray Park?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Cowdray Park is family friendly. Children are welcome on all match days and entry is free. The open grounds give families plenty of space. Children should be supervised near the pitch and pony lines.

Question 14

How much does corporate hospitality cost at Cowdray Park?

Accepted Answer

Hospitality starts from around £150 per person for enclosure days. Private Pearson Pagodas for up to 20 guests are priced on application and depend on the match day. Contact the hospitality team at polo@cowdray.co.uk for a tailored quote.

COWDRAY PARK POLO CLUB

FIXTURES

FIXTURES 2026

West Sussex Cup

Key to location of grounds: