The Independence Cup
Back for its second year after a standout debut, The Independence Cup returns to Ham Polo Club bigger, better and set to be a highlight of the summer.
After welcoming over 1,500 guests last year, an incredible two-day festival returns to Ham Polo Club. Across both the 3rd and 4th of July, expect world-class polo, live entertainment and a vibrant summer atmosphere throughout the Club. It’s a weekend to come together, soak it all in and celebrate in style, and we can’t wait to welcome you back.
The Independence Cup - Friday Festival
Friday night is the ultimate summer polo party at Ham Polo Club, centred around an electrifying USA vs UK transatlantic showdown. Expect fast-paced, high-energy action as the two sides go head to head, combining top-level sport with a lively, festival-style atmosphere.
Off the field, the Club comes alive with food trucks, a mini shopping village, cowboy shows, a glitter tent, merch stands and Ham Polo Club’s in-house catering. Street food, cocktails and bars will be available throughout the evening, followed by a live DJ and saxophonist to keep the celebrations going into the night.
Join us as we celebrate the 4th of July and Ham Polo Club’s centenary year, and make the most of a summer evening designed for groups, friends and a great night out.
The Independence Cup - Family Fun Day
Saturday brings the USA vs UK transatlantic showdown and the inaugural Field Marshal Lord Guthrie Cup between the Household Cavalry vs the Welsh Guards, creating a full day of polo, set against a lively and welcoming summer atmosphere at London’s last remaining polo club. Expect fast-paced, competitive action on the field as the two sides go head to head, alongside a full programme of entertainment across the grounds.
A real highlight of the day will be a special ceremonial performance from the Band of the Welsh Guards, one of the most prestigious regiments in the British Army. Guests will be treated to a traditional procession and live band performance, including the UK and USA national anthems, adding a unique sense of occasion to the day. We are incredibly lucky to have them join us as part of this year’s celebrations.
Across the Club, there will be a wide range of activities and entertainment throughout the day, including bouncy castles, face painting, glitter painting, cowboy shows and live band music. Whether you’re looking to keep the children entertained or simply soak up the atmosphere, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Alongside the entertainment, enjoy a variety of food trucks, a mini shopping village and Ham Polo Club’s in-house catering, offering everything from relaxed street food to drinks throughout the day.
This is the ultimate summer day out for all ages.
The Band of the Welsh Guards & The Welsh Guards Charity
We are delighted to announce that the Band of the Welsh Guards will be attending and performing on the Saturday, in support of the Welsh Guards Charity.
The Band of the Welsh Guards is one of 14 Regular Army Bands, formed of professional musicians from the Royal Corps of Army Music. Based in London, it performs at high-profile ceremonial events including Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and The Sovereign’s Birthday Parade.
Formed in 1915 alongside the Regiment, the Band quickly established a reputation for excellence, giving its first King’s Guard Mount on St David’s Day in 1916 and performing its debut concert at the London Opera House the same evening.
The Welsh Guards Charity supports the entire regimental family, providing financial assistance, welfare support and opportunities for serving soldiers, veterans and their families. Established in 2013, it grew from earlier charitable efforts, including the Afghanistan Appeal launched in response to significant losses during tours in 2009 and 2012.
Today, the Charity:
Provides welfare grants and financial support to soldiers and families
Supports veterans in need
Promotes the Regiment and supports recruitment
Preserves regimental heritage, including memorials and the museum
Funds veteran events, pilgrimages and battlefield visits
Maintains regimental archives and history
Working alongside organisations such as the Army Benevolent Fund, Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes, the Charity plays a vital role in supporting the Welsh Guards community past and present.
Household Cavalry Foundation
We are also delighted to announce that the Household Cavalry will be attending and playing in a match on the Saturday, in support of the Household Cavalry Foundation.
The Household Cavalry is one of the most senior regiments in the British Army, uniquely combining operational and ceremonial roles. Known for providing The Sovereign’s Life Guard and Royal Escorts at major state occasions such as Trooping the Colour, State Visits and the State Opening of Parliament, they represent the very best of British military tradition.
Since 1660, the Household Cavalry has served in major campaigns from Tangier through to modern operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Today, soldiers from The Life Guards and The Blues and Royals continue to serve on the frontline as well as in ceremonial duties.
The Household Cavalry Foundation supports the entire regimental family, including serving soldiers, operational casualties, veterans and their dependants, providing vital welfare and financial support, and supporting the welfare of the Regiment’s horses.
Today, the Foundation:
Provides welfare grants and financial support to serving soldiers and their families
Supports veterans and those affected by injury or trauma
Preserves regimental heritage, including archives and historical assets
Supports the welfare and care of Household Cavalry horses
Through its work, the Foundation plays a vital role in supporting the Household Cavalry community, past and present.