by Annie Vischer

The summer feeling has well and truly started to kick in. We’ve enjoyed a sun-soaked bank holiday full of beer garden get togethers, barbecues and picnics, and all of a sudden are weekend (and evening) schedules are starting to involve a lot more of the outdoors. As a country girl, I can’t really contain my excitement about this.
Winter isn’t really my thing. I love wrapping up in a cashmere jumper as much as the next girl, but the summer? That’s when things get fun. It’s also when we start to recognise just how green and leafy London is. Especially when events like Polo in the Park start to come back around.

Held at the revered Hurlingham Club, the Chestertons Polo in the Park begins with ‘Chukka Friday’ and runs through the weekend. It draws in quite a crowd. The polo pitch takes centre stage, and the commentary of each mach bumbles happily along in the background with the rumble of hooves on grass as attendees sip on Pimms and bubbly, either watching the match in progress, munching delicately on the Gourmet Street Food on offer, or ordering cocktails served in coconuts at the Mahiki tent.

I have been at the event for past few years. I’m a total horsey girl, I was pony obsessed when I was little, competed at University and ride whenever I’m back in the countryside. Needless to say I’ve also dabbled in polo so this occasion was always going to be right up my horse shoe printed street. Add to that the excuse to buy a garden party worthy summer outfit, drink Pimms throughout the day and get competitive over some sport, and it’s pretty much the perfect weekend. Stay ’til it starts to get chilly, pop in at a Parsons Green pub, then make your way over to the Kings Road and continue the night. That’s my June recommendation.
Oh and if you’re hoping for a Pretty Woman style stomping of the divots? That happens.
Chestertons Polo In The Park, Friday 6th, Saturday 7th, Sunday 8th June (Finals Day). Visit polointheparklondon.com to buy tickets.