Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling Festival in Gloucestershire, England, is a one-of-a-kind event that draws participants and spectators from around the world. What do they chase? What’s the prize for the winner? Is this a dangerous sport? We’ve got all the answers for you!
What is the Cheese-Rolling Festival?
The Cheese-Rolling Festival is a heart-pounding event where thrill-seekers pursue a 3 kg (7 lb) wheel of cheese down a treacherous almost-vertical hill. It’s a captivating blend of competition, adrenaline and a touch of whimsy.
This eccentric tradition has roots that stretch back centuries. Some say it harkens back to Pagan rituals and ancient celebrations, making it not just a sporting event, but a link to history.
The festival caters to a diverse range of participants by offering multiple races categorised by age and gender. Each race provides an opportunity for contenders to demonstrate their determination and agility.
When does the Cheese Rolling Festival take place?
Mark your calendars for this remarkable event, which usually occurs on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday in late May.
Also known as the late May bank holiday, this is a time for people in the United Kingdom to have a day off work or school. It falls on the last Monday of May but it used to be on the Monday after Pentecost.
Without a doubt, it’s a time when Cooper’s Hill comes alive with energy and enthusiasm.
Cooper’s Hill: Home of the Cheese Rolling Festival
The festival takes place on the iconic Cooper’s Hill. With its lush greenery and breath-taking views, the hill offers a stunning backdrop for the thrilling races.
Cooper’s Hill is situated near the village of Brockworth in Gloucestershire, a county known for its rolling hills, lush countryside and charming villages.
The hill’s elevation and gradient create a challenging terrain that is both a spectacle and a testament to the festival’s heart-pounding nature.
Who wins the race?
While the goal is to actually catch the cheese, this rarely happens. The main reason for that is because it can reach speeds of 110 kilometres per hour (or 70 miles per hour). Therefore, each wheel is wrapped in a protective wooden casing decorated with ribbons before the race.
Furthermore, the racers often get in each other’s way and go tumbling down the hill.
Hence, the first runner to cross the finish line at the bottom of the slope is considered the winner.
The prize: a wheel of Double Gloucester
And the prize for achieving this daredevil feat? The wheel of cheese they chased down the hill of course!
Originating from the charming region of Gloucestershire, Double Gloucester Cheese takes centre stage at the exhilarating Cheese Rolling Festival.
Crafted from cow’s milk, this cheese undergoes a meticulous cheesemaking process that includes curdling, pressing and ageing.
Known for its smooth and creamy texture, Double Gloucester presents with a nutty and slightly tangy flavour profile. Moreover, the cheese’s flavour deepens with ageing, offering a delightful combination of savoury and subtle sweetness.
Chasing cheese, tumbles and safety measures
Without a doubt, the races are a spectacle of chaos and excitement as participants sprint downhill, chasing the elusive cheese wheel. It’s a thrilling sight, with contenders sometimes tumbling and rolling in their quest to claim victory.
As with any high-energy sporting event, there are risks involved. The steep and uneven terrain of Cooper’s Hill poses a challenge, and participants may sustain injuries such as sprains or fractures.
In recent years, safety measures have been implemented to ensure the well-being of participants and spectators. These measures include restrictions on the size of the cheese wheel and the use of barriers to manage the racecourse.
Becoming a world-famous event
The festival’s popularity has spread far beyond England’s borders, attracting participants and spectators from around the globe.
Actually, in 2023, winners included participants from Manchester in the UK, Canada and Japan!
And one of those winners, 19-year-old Canadian, Delaney Irving won her category despite being knocked unconscious while running down the hill!
Conclusion: Thrills, culture and unforgettable experiences
In conclusion, the Cheese Rolling Festival offers an unforgettable blend of heart-pounding races, cultural celebration, and a spirit of adventure.
Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, this event promises to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the thrill of the chase.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique tradition and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!