Buzz
With a history marked by invasions, global conquests, and extensive colonization, Britain has developed a fascinating array of unique traditions and festivals. This compilation highlights ten of the most peculiar ones.
10. Gurning
The Egremont Crab Fair, one of England's most eccentric events, derives its name from crab apples, not the sea creature. Originating in the 13th century, it began when the Lord of the Manor distributed crab apples to the townspeople. Even today, the Parade of the Apple Cart, where apples are tossed to the crowd on Main Street, remains a key feature. The fair also includes traditional activities like greasy pole climbing, pipe smoking contests, talent shows, Cumberland wrestling, and hound trails. However, the event's annual claim to fame is undoubtedly its gurning competition, home to the Gurning World Championships.
Gurning is a peculiar and uniquely English tradition that showcases a bizarre rubber-faced skill. Participants place their heads through a horse collar or braffin, contorting their faces into the most grotesque and unattractive expressions possible. While some skill is required, the influence of ample beer and a lack of teeth often plays a role. Celebrities sometimes join in, and the winners frequently make headlines on national news. If you're visiting Cumbria or the Lake District in September, don't miss the Egremont Crab Fair. This one-of-a-kind spectacle is unforgettable and unlike anything you'll see elsewhere.
9. Cheese Rolling at Cooper’s Hill
The Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake is an annual tradition held on the Spring Bank Holiday at Cooper’s Hill near Gloucester in the Cotswolds. Originally a local event for the residents of Brockworth, it now attracts participants from around the globe. Named after the hill where it takes place, the event was canceled in 2010 due to safety concerns but is expected to resume in 2011. The steep and uneven terrain often leads to injuries, including sprains, broken bones, and concussions. Described as 'twenty young men chasing a cheese down a cliff and tumbling 200 yards, only to be collected by paramedics and taken to the hospital,' it’s a spectacle like no other.
8. Maypole Dancing
Maypole dancing is a traditional folk dance popular in western Europe, particularly in England, Sweden, Galicia, Portugal, and Germany, with two main variations. In the more common version, dancers move in circles around a tall pole adorned with garlands, painted stripes, flowers, flags, and other decorations. In the second variation, participants hold colored ribbons attached to a smaller pole, weaving them into intricate patterns around the pole or creating a web. The dancers then reverse their steps to untangle the ribbons.
7. Pearly King and Queen
Pearly Kings and Queens, or 'pearlies,' are a cherished charitable tradition rooted in London's working-class culture. This practice, which involves wearing clothing decorated with pearl buttons, began in the 19th century. It is often linked to Henry Croft, an orphaned street sweeper who raised funds for charity. The first organized pearly society was established in 1911 in Finchley, north London.
6. Guy Fawkes Night
Guy Fawkes Night, also known as 'bonfire night,' is observed on November 5th in the UK and parts of the Commonwealth. It commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot, marked by burning effigies of Fawkes and fireworks displays. The term 'guy,' meaning a person, originates from his name. Guy Fawkes, born April 13, 1570, and also called Guido Fawkes during his service for Spain in the Low Countries, was part of a group of Catholic Restorationists. They aimed to overthrow Protestant rule by detonating the Houses of Parliament during King James I's presence, along with the Protestant and Catholic aristocracy. This act was a response to the persecution of English Catholics.
The Gunpowder Plot was orchestrated by Robert Catesby, with Fawkes tasked with its execution. He was apprehended hours before the planned explosion during a search of Parliament's cellars on November 5th, following an anonymous tip. The event celebrates the foiling of the plot to destroy the Houses of Parliament in Westminster.
5. Ascot Ladies Day
Ascot Racecourse, situated in Ascot, Berkshire, is a renowned venue for thoroughbred horse racing in England. It ranks among the UK's top racecourses, hosting 9 of the country's 32 annual Group 1 races, matching Newmarket's tally. Located just six miles from Windsor Castle, it is owned by the Crown Estate and has strong ties to the British Royal Family. The racecourse holds 25 racing days annually, including 16 Flat meetings in May and October. The Royal Meeting in June, featuring the prestigious Ascot Gold Cup, is a major attraction. The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes in July is another highlight. The event is also famous for its extravagant fashion, particularly the increasingly bold and eccentric hats.
4. Bog Snorkeling
Yes, you read that right—bog snorkeling. If anyone ever questioned the eccentricity of the British, this event should settle the debate. Participants, equipped with goggles, flippers, and a snorkel, dive into a bog and race through a 120-foot-long muddy trench. This annual event attracts competitors from around the globe and raises significant funds for charity.
3. Morris Dancing
Morris dancing is a traditional English folk dance typically performed to music. It involves rhythmic steps and choreographed movements by a group of dancers, who may also use props like sticks, swords, or handkerchiefs. In some dances for one or two performers, steps are executed around or across a pair of crossed clay tobacco pipes placed on the ground.
2. Worm Charming
Worm charming is a method of luring earthworms from the soil, often used to gather fishing bait or practiced as a competitive sport. The World Championships have been held annually in Willaston, near Nantwich, Cheshire, since 1980. The event was founded by local resident Tom Shufflebotham, who charmed 511 worms in just 30 minutes on July 5, 1980. The competition follows 18 strict rules, including competing within a 3x3 meter area, allowing music to attract worms, and prohibiting the use of stimulants like water.
1. Straw Bear
Straw Bear Day, celebrated on January 7th, is an ancient English tradition observed in the Fenland region bordering Huntingdonshire and Cambridgeshire, including Ramsey Mereside. It marks the traditional start of the agricultural year. A participant, dressed in a full-body straw costume, visits homes to perform dances in exchange for money, food, or beer.
