A Weekend at Guards Polo Club: Royal Polo and Refined Leisure in Windsor Great Park

Located within the majestic Windsor Great Park, Guards Polo Club is synonymous with royal prestige, thrilling polo matches, and elegant gatherings. As one of the most respected polo clubs in the world, Guards offers an exceptional spectator experience, often accompanied by gourmet picnics, fashion-forward attendees, and a distinctly British atmosphere. Whether you're attending the Cartier Queen’s Cup or a more relaxed fixture, a weekend here blends the traditions of polo with the sophistication of the English countryside.

Visit Windsor’s Polo Club

Friday Evening: Arrive in Royal Windsor

Check in to a nearby hotel or countryside retreat such as The Royal Adelaide Hotel, Coworth Park, or Fairmont Windsor Park.

Enjoy dinner at The Oxford Blue in Old Windsor or Bluebells Restaurant in Sunningdale for a refined, locally sourced dining experience.

Take a pre-weekend walk along the River Thames or through Windsor town centre for charming shops and quiet cobbled lanes.

Saturday:
Polo and Parkside Pleasures

Morning:
- Start with breakfast at Cinnamon Cafe in Windsor Royal Station or The Belvedere Arms near Ascot.
- Head to Guards Polo Club for match day. Arrive early to explore the grounds, visit member pavilions (if applicable), and find the perfect spot for spectating.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy fieldside hospitality, whether via a VIP marquee, tailgate setup, or your own luxury picnic. Many events offer premium food vendors and champagne bars.
- Between matches, take time to stroll through Windsor Great Park or admire the elegant parade of ponies and players.
Evening:
- Return to Windsor or Ascot for dinner. Recommended spots include Gilbey’s Bar & Restaurant or The Greene Oak.
- Optional: Attend a cultural event at Theatre Royal Windsor or unwind at your accommodation with garden views.

Sunday:
Royal Surroundings and Slow Living

Morning:
- Visit Windsor Castle (advance tickets recommended) or take a long walk along The Long Walk, with uninterrupted views of the castle.
- Enjoy brunch at The Ivy Windsor Brasserie or The Barn at Coworth Park.
Afternoon:
- Return to Guards for additional match play, training rounds, or a more casual fixture depending on the weekend schedule.
- Wrap up your visit with a leisurely drive through the countryside or visit Savill Garden for a floral farewell.

Insider Tips for Equestrian Visitors

Parking:
- On-site parking is typically available during public events but often requires advance booking. VIP and member lots are separate.
Pets:
- Dogs are permitted on leads in some areas of Windsor Great Park, but not typically within Guards Polo Club grounds during matches.
Family Activities:
- While polo events are generally adult-oriented, families can enjoy nearby activities like boat rides on the Thames, the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, or horse-drawn carriage tours in the park.

Nearby Cities and Attractions

(within 1-hour drive)

Windsor: Explore the castle, St George’s Chapel, and the historic town centre.

Ascot: Home to Ascot Racecourse and fine dining options.

Eton: Visit the historic college town across the bridge from Windsor.

Henley-on-Thames: A picturesque riverside town known for regattas and antique shops.

Runnymede: Site of the Magna Carta and beautiful riverside meadows with sculpture trails.

Downloadable Packing List

Smart casual or formal attire depending on the polo fixture (some events have strict dress codes)
Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for daytime spectating
Light jacket or wrap for breezy afternoons or evening events
Waterproof footwear or stylish flats for walking on grass
Camera or binoculars for viewing and photography
Foldable chair or picnic blanket for tailgate events
Reusable water bottle and snacks (if outside hospitality areas)
Event program and a printed parking pass or e-ticket