This unique event attracts thousands of people each year.
It's official, the whackiest event of the year is returning. The Cooper's Hill cheese rolling and wake is coming back to Gloucester for 2025, promising the usual thousands of spectators watching as countless brave individuals rush down the steep hill in the aims of catching a wheel of cheese.
What is cheese rolling?
In essence, exactly what it says on the tin. Participants throw themselves down a 180-metre hill in pursuit of a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese. Though the cheese can never actually be caught, as it can reach speeds of up to 80 miles per hour, it acts as a goal for the competitors in their race to the finish line.
It's a long-standing tradition that's thought to be at least 600 years old, though the first written cheese rolling history comes from 1826, when a message about it was sent to the town crier. Its origins are unknown, but some people believe it was once a pagan festival to mark the start of summer.
When is the Cheese Roll in Gloucester for 2025?
This famous event takes place on spring bank holiday every year, which is Monday 26 May 2025. It starts from 12pm, and there are separate races for men and women.
Can I take part in the Gloucestershire Cheese Rolling?
This is an unofficial event, meaning anyone can take part - as long as you're over 18 years old (though there is an uphill race for children). No registration is needed and admission is free, so just come to the top of the hill on the day.
Have there been Cooper's Hill cheese rolling injuries?
This race certainly can be dangerous - it's the steepest hill in Gloucestershire and most contestants end up taking a tumble at some point. Look out for loose rocks, twigs and stinging nettles, and be sure to wear protective clothing as you're taking part at your own risk.
There have been a number of injuries over the years, from broken bones to being zapped by lightning, though thankfully the Gloucester cheese rolling death toll remains at zero.
If you're wondering where to Cheese Roll in England, head to Cooper’s Hill, Gloucester, GL3 4SB this May. And for more unusual things to do, check out the UK's quirkiest activities.
