Credentials: The tale goes that in 1876 the publisher of The New York Herald, James Gordon Bennett, invited a dozen gentlemen for dinner at his New York estate. After the meal the guests were invited to try their hand at the new sport of polo, that Bennett had recently seen in England. They were so taken with the game that the Westchester-based players formed a club and set up playing fields to practise near their summer country retreats – and so Newport became the first polo club in the US. The original club remained active until 1929 when the Great Depression brought about its demise. It was revived in 1992 and, although it is still registered under the historic Westchester name, it is popularly known as Newport Polo. It still maintains its old-school feel with a linden-tree-lined drive, restored barns and drystone walls.
What to watch: If you are in Newport on a Saturday in the summer, then attending the International Polo Series is a must. Team USA/Newport take on challengers from 6 continents from 5pm.
Take your pick: If you want to don your best hat and quaff Veuve Clicquot in the Twisted Pony bar then head for the Pavilion. Alternatively, swap the hat for a picnic blanket and hang out with the locals and tailgaters on the lawn.
