Ah, the great British summertime. Long windswept walks on stony beaches, candy-striped sticks of rock, and clutching onto wide-brimmed straw hats… No British summertime scene would be complete without a picnic. It’s become an essential part of a walk in the countryside, day at the beach, or afternoon polo fixture. The British summer sports season is the first word in elegant afternoon dining. Think strawberries and cream at the tennis and harris tweed picnic blankets at the rowing.

At Emsworth Polo Grounds on Saturday (July 20th) Jean Boucton Champagne, Emsworth Polo, Cliveden Hotel and the Honesty Group are coming together for perhaps the most elegant take on a quintessentially British day out. There won’t be a soggy sandwich in sight. Wicker baskets with perfectly starched gingham cloth covering freshly cut organic sandwiches, scotch eggs, handmade scones, and a chilled bottle of Jean Boucton champagne will be the order of the day. All served against a charming backdrop of bunting strewn Gazebos and freshly mown grass.

The afternoon of picnicking and polo will kick off with the first game at half-past two, with the final fixture – the Gold Cup Final – taking place at four. Toast the day with a glass of Jean Boucton champagne, which has been the drink of choice at the Margot Turner Polo Challenge (at the Royal Military Academy of Sandhurst), the French Embassy, and the St Regis Hotel (international) Polo – so you’re in good company.

As the sun fades and the last drops of champagne are sipped, recline on a picnic blanket or wander around the Windsor countryside. This is British summertime, at its most classic stylish best. Stick around for the champagne sabering and raise a glass to the worthy winners. Even the temperamental British weather won’t be able to dampen your spirits.

 

“Great crowd, amazing Champagne, a nice picnic afternoon”