A superb destination with sights reminiscent of Sydney, Poole’s stunning natural harbour complete with eight unique islands and striking peninsula is the largest in Europe. Poole boasts Britain’s best beach – Sandbanks, awarded more Blue Flags than any other UK resort and is also the gateway to the world heritage Jurassic Coast.
In geographical terms, Sandbanks is a small peninsula or spit (1km or 0.39 sq mi) crossing the mouth of Poole Harbour on the English Channel coast at Poole. The beach itself hosts the annual Asahi British Beach Polo Championships, which is due to return to Sandbanks this month, running July 10-11, 2015. Now in its eight year, this year’s event will be bigger and better than ever.
Arena polo is a high adrenaline game, and when played on a stunning Blue Flag beach brings out the very best from the players, ponies and guests. Unlike grass polo, arena polo is played within a smaller area with three rather than four players per team. The games are always very physical as the players are in close proximity to each other. Arena polo is a great spectator sport as the fans are so close to the action at all times.
Jack Kidd, professional polo player commented: “Top polo players are keen to return to Sandbanks to play incredibly competitive polo in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd. The setting is spectacular and I can’t wait!”
The ever popular Beach Volleyball will also return again for 2015, this year hosted by Revo and Barnabys, The REVOlution Sandslam promises to deliver top class beach volleyball on both days to entertain the large crowds.
Once the sun goes down, the legendary beach parties begin. Due to the success of previous years Coco Loco will be hosting both nights, bringing in top DJs from around the UK. Guests will party into the early hours with DJ EZ headlining on Friday.
Johnny Wheeler, director of Sandpolo said: “We are delighted to be returning to Sandbanks again. Each year the event gets more popular and introduces more people to the exciting game of polo. The regular polo crowd love the atmosphere at Sandbanks with its glorious beach, and of course our parties are the talking point on the polo circuit.”
Whether visitors are dining in the waterfront Sandpolo Hospitality marquee, enjoying the exclusive VIP experience, soaking up the atmosphere with general admission tickets, or just choosing to sit outside the fence on the purpose built beach viewing area, it is a chance for polo, beach volleyball and the Jurassic English coast to show off its attributes.
Sandbanks' Aqua Madhouse
There is nothing better than a day on the water, especially with the stunning backdrop of the Sandbanks peninsula in Poole.
With watersports running through our veins, FJB Hotels want everyone to experience the buzz of riding the waves, which is why they have created The Watersports Academy - an aqua madhouse for water babies of all ages.
Located onsite at the Sandbanks Hotel and on the edge of Poole Harbour, The Watersports Academy offers thrill seekers, pleasure seekers and family fun seekers a host of exciting water-based activities.
FJB Hotels chose Poole Harbour because it is ideal for all levels. Whilst learners can enjoy the safe, shallow waters of the harbour itself, experienced folk can venture into the more extreme conditions of Poole Bay. With the lushness of Brownsea Island just a paddle away and the rolling Purbeck Hills beckoning, their range of watersports equipment and experiences gives you a unique opportunity to explore in style.
Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, take a break from sunbathing and don a wetsuit for a spot of windsurfing, kitesurfing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, powerboating, sailing, paddleboarding or kayaking. Fully qualified instructors provide the very best tuition, from teaching the basics to refining and developing skills.
With the summer holidays here, The Watersports Academy is launching its popular Kids Club. Featuring an exciting programme of activities designed to keep the little ones entertained during the school holidays. It is a great way to make new friends and experience a brand new adventure.
Explore their wide range of activities and kid’s clubs at www.thewatersportsacademy.com, www.fjbhotels.co.uk
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