Polo has long been hailed as the “sport of kings,” and there are few better places to witness its elegance than Windsor, the King’s own county. This summer, I had the rare privilege of attending the Eduardo Moore Final at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club (RCBPC), one of the world’s most prestigious polo venues.
Nestled in the rolling Berkshire countryside, RCBPC exudes sophistication—from the manicured lawns to the impeccably curated clubhouse. The air was alive with anticipation as horses thundered across the pitch, the crack of mallets punctuating the cheers of an enthusiastic crowd.
I attended as a guest of The Grove Gallery, whose impeccable taste in art and lifestyle experiences is rivaled only by their knack for curating unforgettable moments. Between thrilling chukkas, I savoured the social scene: impeccably dressed spectators, champagne in hand, all basking in the perfect English sunshine.
The Eduardo Moore Final is more than a match; it’s a celebration of heritage, style, and sport. As the sun dipped behind Windsor Castle, casting a golden glow over the arena, I couldn’t help but feel that I had witnessed something truly extraordinary – a day where tradition, adrenaline, and elegance collided in perfect harmony.
The day began in Windsor with a leisurely drink at The Ivy, the sunlight glinting off crystal glasses and polished wood. Soon, an Uber arrived—sleek, silent, and unmistakably a Tesla—ready to carry us through the countryside in effortless style.
As we glided past rolling fields, fragrant hedgerows, and stately country mansions, the world seemed to slow. Arriving at the club just as the first match began, I stepped onto the manicured lawns, the soft grass warm beneath my shoes. A gentle summer breeze whispered through the trees, and the distant murmur of conversation mingled with the crisp crack of the first serve. In that moment, all my tensions melted away, replaced by the serene joy of the day.
Our hosts, The Grove Gallery and The Christmas Decorators, had created a winter wonderland despite the heat and the clubhouse was adorned with art. The new Polo collection by Zara Muse was introduced to the club only last week, and I stopped to admire the exquisite prints of beautiful women, each valued at £20,000.
Amid the exhilaration of the polo pitch, I was equally captivated by the art on display. Zara Muse, an artist in residence at The Grove Gallery, presented her work up close—a striking counterpoint to the sporting spectacle. Her pieces had recently been showcased at the club during the Justerini & Brooks Prince of Wales Trophy tournament, which coincided with the celebration of RCBPC’s 40th anniversary. The exhibition was a star-studded affair in its own right, with works by Banksy also on display, creating a rare intersection of contemporary art and elite sport that left a lasting impression.
Zara Muse is the alter ego of Alexandra Johnson, who attended the event with friends to celebrate a record-breaking moment in her career: her portrait of Malala Yousafzai sold for £51,000 at Bonhams, marking a personal and professional milestone. The Grove Gallery, based in Fitzrovia, has been instrumental in showcasing her talent to the world, curating exhibitions that reveal both her technical mastery and fearless engagement with contemporary themes. Experiencing her work in the refined setting of RCBPC offered a unique interplay between the immediacy of sport and the contemplative power of art.
I first met Alexandra last Christmas at the launch of her artwork when The Grove Gallery collaborated with Astrea Diamonds at The Fairmont in Windsor, where she embedded man-made diamonds into her paintings. As Zara Muse, Alexandra captures the depth of women’s emotions and strength through her bold, dimensional palette-knife paintings, attracting collectors and institutions alike.
While she is one of the UK’s most sought-after contemporary artists, incredibly skilled at capturing the essence of strong women using layers with her palette knife and spatula, and delving into the themes of nature and human connection, she is also extremely down to earth, genuinely a breath of fresh air, which broke any inhibitions I had over attending such a prestigious event.
Alexandra and I bonded over our shared loss of mothers to cancer, and her genuine, warm smile made me feel welcome at this prestigious event. She told me that after losing her mother, Janet channelled her grief into creating artwork that celebrates strong women, and she does this by creating layered pieces with a spatula and a knife and she saw it her mission to create strong women in her paintings.
Her cousin is a world-renowned street artist, but Zara’s work is more akin to fine art. She has some exciting collaborations planned, including a commission to paint the First Lady of China..
All those who attended the Eduardo Moore Final and the event featured works by Frank Canvas, known for his bold collection of pop art with polo-related quotes – including “She liked her Men Like Her Horses – Expensive, Well Schooled and Slightly Wild – and with all the innendo going on it felt very much like I had stepped into Jilly Cooper land and the set of Rivals.
Kirstie Taylor, whose colourful sculptures including “Love Bear,” “Daddy, I Want a Pony,” and “Trust Fund Pony” lined the entrance. The Grove Gallery features artists such as Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol, Banksy, Pablo Picasso, and Philip Colbert.
It was my first time at a polo match, but I quickly picked up the rules—and found the sport utterly captivating. Polo originated in Persia over 2,000 years ago and remains a test of skill, strategy, and horsemanship. Two teams of four players each ride horses and wield long mallets to send a small ball across the field and into the opposing team’s goal. Matches are divided into “chukkers,” seven-minute periods in which players rotate ponies to maintain stamina. The objective is simple: score more goals than the other team—but achieving it requires breathtaking coordination, speed, and precision.
Halfway through the match, in a moment of spontaneous whimsy, I even stepped onto the pitch barefoot, channelilng a scene straight out of Pretty Woman—and, inevitably, trod in pony poo. It was messy, humorous, and somehow emblematic of polo itself: glamorous and refined, yet delightfully unpredictable.
The view from the royal Pavilion box was very inviting, and we enjoyed refreshments, food, and the hospitality as we watched the game. I got chatting to various people, including a polo player and his dog and a lovely lady whose daughter was catering at the event.
We enjoyed the match and the beauty of the English countryside, and met some lovely people. It was a fabulous experience overall, and I loved the hospitality with delicious food and a bar for refreshments.
From the exhilaration of the polo pitch to the intimate appreciation of contemporary portraiture, the day felt like a celebration of excellence in all its forms. RCBPC continues to embody the union of tradition, sophistication, and culture -a place where kings, champions, and artists converge, if only for a fleeting, unforgettable moment.
Stay at The Fairmont
The Fairmont Windsor Park, is a luxurious hotel that exudes elegance from its exterior to its 251 rooms and a selection of seven distinctive restaurants and bars. The spa features a heated outdoor pool, a Himalayan salt room, and an indoor pool with heated seats and day beds. You can also opt for cryotherapy, a sauna or steam room, and a range of massages, facials, or even cosmetic procedures and aesthetics at the Face Bible clinic. Furthermore, the health club offers a range of fitness classes, from dance to yoga, and even personalised fitness training.
The Fairmont was the place where I met Alexandra back at Christmas, for the unveiling of her painting featuring a diamond in the ear of one of her exquisite pieces – an event attended by Nick Knowles and his wife, Rachel Watkyns from Dragon’s Den, and Julian McDonald, to name a few.
The sitting room gracefully flows into the bedroom, creating a seamless transition between the two spaces. The bedroom features an elegant dressing area, adorned with exquisite, oversized wardrobes that offer ample storage for cherished belongings. Adjoining the bedroom is a luxurious bathroom, complete with a stunning freestanding Villeroy & Boch oval tub, inviting relaxation and indulgence. The enticing scents of Le Labo products fill the air, enhancing the serene ambience. After filling the tub with warm water, I sank into a comforting bath, allowing the soothing experience to wash over me. Once refreshed, I snuggled into bed, flipping on the TV, and soon drifted off to sleep, enveloped in tranquillity.
“With all the grandeur of a stately home, you’ll feel like you are living your best life.”
An enchanting view of the grounds greeted me as I opened the blinds. I made my way to the gym, where I used the state-of-the-art machines, starting with the cross trainer and then progressing to the treadmill.
The Royal Suite features a private entrance and grants access to a dedicated wing within the spa and wellness area. Situated on approximately 40 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel is adjacent to Windsor Great Park and The Savill Garden. The site emphasises wellness and offers an outstanding range of food and beverage options, including a tea lounge, a speciality dining restaurant, a champagne bar, a gin bar, a library lounge, a wellness café, and an all-day dining restaurant. Additionally, the hotel boasts 15 meeting rooms, including a spacious 800 m² pillar-free ballroom, as well as spa and wellness facilities spanning 2,500 m². Fairmont Windsor Park is owned by the Arora Group and is managed in partnership with Accor, utilising the Fairmont brand.
I enjoyed a one-on-one yoga session followed by a quick swim and a full English breakfast in my room. Then, I explored the stately home’s 40 acres of enchanting grounds, walking around the tranquil lake and the wellness paths through the gardens. The estate also features a helicopter landing pad and a private airfield, with 4,800 acres of royal land beyond. There is also a diamond shop on site called Astrea – featuring man-made diamonds owned by Nathalie Morris and Claire Ferrini.
The Royal Suite has a private entrance and access to a private wing in the spa and wellness area. Set in approximately 40 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens adjacent to Windsor Great Park and The Savill Garden. The site prioritise wellness together with a fantastic food and beverage offering including a tea lounge, specialty dining restaurant, champagne bar, gin bar, library lounge, wellness café and an all-day dining restaurant. The hotel has 15 meeting rooms including an 800m2 pillar free ballroom and spa and wellness facilities spread out over 2,500m2. Fairmont Windsor Park is owned by the Arora Group and operated in partnership with Accor, utilising the Fairmont brand.
With all the grandeur of a stately home, you’ll feel like you are living your best life. The staff greet you like an old friend so you’ll feel as though you are at home. You’ll never want to leave once you visit Fairmont Windsor Park. www.fairmont-windsorpark.com
Visit Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the official residence of King Charles and Queen Camilla, and as you emerge from the train station, it is there in all of its majesty before you. Wade through all of the crowds of tourists and take a 10-minute walk up to the castle, where inside you will find classic art from Rembrandt and other famous artists. This is the reigning monarch’s home and it is embedded into the identity of the town which has sprung around it. It has been the home of kings and queens for over a thousand years since William the Conqueror.
The Ivy
Just across from the Castle is The Ivy, where you can enjoy a drink and relax. You can book in for a delicious Sunday roast or just enjoy a beverage. The venue has excellent views of the Castle.
Reading
Reading has its roots in medieval times, shaped by the winding River Thames and Kennet that encircle the town centre. Today, it thrives as a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination, blending rich heritage with a lively atmosphere along its picturesque waterfront. It is a university town which has a lot to see and do and wonderful museums and opportunities to enjoy the riverside.
History enthusiasts can start with the Reading Abbey Ruins, which are 900 years old, dating back to the time of Henry I. While in town, be sure to check out a replica of the Bayeux Tapestry in Reading Museum. The city is also host to the Reading Festival featuring some of the best names in music.
Everything is a walk away and it is also on the gateway of The Great West Way, the Chilterns, Silchester Roman City walls, the Thames Path or nearby Windsor, Henley or Oxford.
Benson
The Benson Waterfront is home to Le Boat fleet where you can access the River Thames, and visit some of the country’s top restaurants. Benson is also home to an RAF base, where the Chinook helicopters are based. Read more the Benson waterfront and how to hire Le Boat here.
Royal Ascot
https://dluxe-magazine.co.uk/travel/a-fine-day-out-at-royal-ascot/Royal Ascot is the year’s highlight, where the elite mingle with racegoers in a dazzling social event. It happens every year in June. Read more about this event here.
Henley
Henley is the home to the Regatta and the Henley Black Tie Festival. This riverside location is the epicentre of the social calendar. Read more about this event here.
Getting there:
From London, take the train to Reading. Here you can stay on for Didcot, where you can then take an Uber to Benson or change here for Windsor. For Berkshire, the Queen Elizabeth Line to Twyford and change for Henley. This is a charming place to explore
LUXE Serendipity magazine 
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