In this article, you'll learn the following:
Sandpolo is returning this year at the stunning Sandbanks Beach in Poole for 2024! The event, also known as the British Beach Polo Championships, has been running since 2008, and is one of the UK’s most unique sporting events.
The games make for a super enjoyable watch and day out with family and friends - whether you’re an avid polo fan or spectating for the first time. You can enjoy the games, food and drink, and evening entertainment here. Our Sandpolo guide details everything you need to know to make the most it. Read on to learn more.
When and where is Sandpolo?
The Sandpolo event in Poole takes place on 12 and 13 July 2024 from 1 pm.
The address is: Sandbanks Beach, Banks Road, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7QQ.
How do I get to the polo at Sandbanks?
Travelling by train
The nearest station to the polo at Sandbanks is Poole, which you can get to direct from the likes of London Waterloo, Bournemouth, Southampton Central, and Weymouth.
Once you get to Poole station, hop on the number 60 Harbour Breezer bus to Sandbanks Beach and you'll arrive at the festival in under 30 minutes.
Travelling from London
From London, it takes 2 hours to get to Poole. You can travel from various London stations including Waterloo, Vauxhall, Clapham Junction, and Wimbledon.
Things to see and do at Sandpolo
There's so much to see and do at the polo at Sandbanks including live matches, music, delicious food and much more.
Before we get into the details it’s worth noting that families are welcome during the day, but from 6pm only over 18s can stay at the event.
Polo matches
The main event – the British Beach Polo Championships - kick off just after the 3 pm opening ceremony.
From 2:30 pm you can enjoy the polo ponies gallop along the sand to help get you in the spirit of the games.
The beach party
From 6 pm you can party the night away at the beach after parties until midnight across the event days. There’ll be live music and DJs including Lemar, DJ Sam young, and more – see the full line up.
Food and drink
There are plenty of food and drink options available at the Sandpolo event. Discover the street food village and fine-dining hospitality marquee, and relax at the pitch-side bar.
Make sure you get your tickets early, prices range from £40 for entry tickets, and up to £200 per person for hospitality tickets – learn more and grab your tickets.
Things to do near Sandbanks Beach in Poole
Rich in history and home to the largest natural harbour in Europe, the coastal town of Poole is well worth a visit. There’s also the beautiful old town to explore, which dates back to the Iron Age.
If you’re heading to the Sandpolo event from outside of Poole, it’s worth considering spending the whole weekend here and making the most of what the town's got to offer.
Looking for adventure activities? Visit Poole’s water park Splashdown, or the regional arts centre Lighthouse where you’ll find a range of live events all year round.
There are also lots of restaurants, cafes, and bars for you to try on your trip to Poole including plenty of fish and chips options. Harless is known to be one of the best places for fish and chips in the area.
Check out our dedicated Poole guide for more things to do, and don’t forget to browse SWR Rewards for money off deals on things like food and drinks, activities and more to enjoy while you’re there.
Where to stay in Poole
There are many places to stay in Poole including period hotels, cosy B&B’s and more.
If you’re looking for a seaside getaway where you can try new experiences and learn new things try the Rockley Park Holiday Park.
Situated just off Poole Quay in the heart of the Old Town, Hotel du Vin & Bistro hosts 38 individually designed rooms and suites.
If you fancy staying in the heart of the Old Town try Hotel du Vin, or take a peak at Cranborne House, known as the ‘Old House’ of Poole.
Budget options include Poole’s Premier Inn and Travelodge Poole Hotel.
Sandpolo accessibility
Sandbanks offers a beach wheelchair scheme. For more information email sm@sandpolo.com to discuss your needs.
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