May events: Watch the Tetbury Woolsack Race

Tetbury, Gloucestershire

This is undoubtedly one of England's strangest things to do in May, but this unique race dates back to the 17th-century.

The aim (for those bonkers enough to compete) is to run up a ridiculously steep hill and back as fast as you can while carrying a sackful of wool on your back.

Once competitors reach the bottom, they hand the sack to a teammate who has to leg it back up the hill. If you're feeling tired just thinking about it, the good news is you don't have to join in; teams spend months training for the event so most people who come here are more than happy to just watch.

Tetbury was once an important town for Cotswold wool traders, and the races are thought to have originated with young drovers who wanted to show off in front of the local ladies. Around this, the town celebrates with a street fair, local stalls and amusement rides.

The event takes place on the late May Bank Holiday Monday. If you fancy putting yourself into one of the championship races, you can register via the website. 

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Tetbury Woolsack RaceTetbury Woolsack Race © VisitEngland images
Tetbury Woolsack RaceTetbury © VisitEngland images
TetburyTetbury © VisitEngland images

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