London’s balmy summer air carries with it the anticipation of sophisticated revellers as it floats over the bustling grounds of the Hurlingham Club. Applause ripples through the stands as the muscular and agile polo ponies race past. Elite players from across the world, eyes fierce with determination, battle for the coveted Chestertons Polo in the Park trophy. Captivated onlookers and aficionados alike tuck into a glass of Champagne Lanson from the sidelines.

This June, the thundering hooves of Chestertons Polo in the Park return to London for the world’s largest polo festival. Up there with tennis at Queen’s Club, the Boat Race and the Henley Royal Regatta, this opulent event is a summer favourite. Elegant socialites create a colourful showcase of fashionable and sophisticated polo attire as they gather in the London sunshine for three days of matches, entertainment and exquisite food and drink. A cornerstone of the summer social season, Chestertons Polo in the Park is an unmissable occasion.

Teams comprising the world’s best polo players face off from the 9–11th of June. Six global cities are represented: this year Sydney, Buenos Aires, Dubai, New York, London and Zurich will go head-to-head in a series of exciting polo matches. England will face Argentina as well as play their first-ever international match against the USA. The festival runs for three days: Cudos International Friday, Hurlingham Polo Ladies Saturday and Family Day/Finals Day Sunday.

Plenty of delicious food and drink is available at Chestertons Polo in the Park. Featuring some of London’s best food outlets, the Fulham Food Festival has it all including smokey barbeque from BBQ Dept., delicious Mumbai street food from Curry On Naanstop and authentic pies from Freewheelin’ Pizza. However, for those that wish, a warm English summer’s day isn’t complete without a refreshing glass of Pimm’s. Luckily, your ticket to Chestertons Polo in the Park comes with access to some great places to quench your thirst and you will be spoiled for choice. Enjoy a tipple at the Champagne Lanson Fruit Market or a tropical cocktail at the Mahiki Island Grill before returning pitchside to watch the action.

In a sport so synonymous with high society, the weekend wouldn’t be complete without a touch of glamour. A magnificent sea of colour undulates under the sun as fashionable fans socialise, support their teams and enjoy the festivities. Hats, recommended for both men and women, set the tone for the rest of the outfit. Whilst a strict dress code is not enforced, elegant smart-casual polo attire that aligns with the traditions of the event and its grounds is the order of the day. On Friday, a jacket or blazer for men and polo chic for women is advised.

VIP and hospitality upgrades offer a further touch of luxury to a charming weekend. The Garden Club provides exclusive extras where you can savour a selection of dishes during a two-course summer buffet with matched wines as well as an evening cheeseboard. These can be enjoyed within the heat of the action directly behind the goal. A Patron ticket includes pitchside tables for 10-12 guests as well as additions including a Champagne Lanson reception with canapés and a three-course lunch with premium wines.

There is a wonderful charm to a weekend at Chestertons Polo in the Park. Top-class sport, the English sunshine (if you’re lucky) and quality food and drink make it a quintessentially British summer day out. Whether it’s the polo or the party that brings you here, any previous guest will tell you that there is no better way to spend a British summer’s day.