Looking for something truly different to do? The UK is home to some of the world’s weirdest and most entertaining competitions — events that celebrate eccentricity, tradition, and community spirit in the quirkiest ways imaginable. From chasing cheese down a hill to charming worms out of the ground, these events are as hilariously chaotic as they are beloved.

Why the UK Loves Its Eccentric Competitions

British culture is rich in history, dry humour, and a love for the unconventional. These eccentric events are more than just oddball fun — they’re rooted in local tradition and celebrated with passion.

Some, like the Olney Pancake Race, date back centuries. Others, like Extreme Ironing, reflect Britain’s unique blend of satire and sport. Together, they form a delightfully weird tapestry that keeps drawing visitors from around the world.

The UK’s Strangest Competitions You Can Actually Attend

Here’s our definitive roundup of the UK’s quirkiest contests — and yes, you can join in or spectate at many of them.

Cheese Rolling – Gloucestershire

An adrenaline-fueled event where daredevils chase a rolling wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down Cooper’s Hill. Injuries are common, laughs are guaranteed.
•    When: Late May (Spring Bank Holiday)
•    Tip: Spectators should arrive early for a good viewing spot — it gets packed.

Bog Snorkeling – Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales

Competitors swim through a muddy trench in a peat bog using snorkels and flippers — but no traditional strokes allowed.
•    When: August
•    Why Go: It’s the only place you’ll find international athletes in flippers covered in mud... on purpose.

Gravy Wrestling – Stacksteads, Lancashire

Wrestlers battle in a pool of warm gravy in front of cheering crowds — scoring points for moves and showmanship.
•    When: August Bank Holiday
•    Charity Alert: Many proceeds go to local organisations.

World Conker Championships – Ashton, Northamptonshire

Hit your opponent’s conker before they hit yours — the ultimate nostalgic throwback to childhood, with serious bragging rights.
•    When: October
•    Fun Fact: Players have come from over 20 countries!

World Gurning Championship – Egremont, Cumbria

Contestants pull hideous faces through a horse collar in a contest of pure facial absurdity.
•    When: September (during the Crab Fair)
•    Don't Miss: The parade of past Gurning champions — yes, they exist.

Olney Pancake Race – Olney, Buckinghamshire

Women race through the streets while flipping pancakes in frying pans, in a tradition that dates back to 1445.
•    When: Shrove Tuesday
•    Trivia: The winner is traditionally invited to a church service after the race.

Extreme Ironing – Locations Vary

The “sport” of ironing clothes in the world’s most dangerous and absurd locations — mountains, rivers, even skydiving.
•    Where: Worldwide, but it started in Leicester.
•    Why It’s Weird: Because ironing + risk of death = a British sport.

Worm Charming – Willaston, Cheshire

Using music, dance, or vibration, participants charm worms to the surface without digging.
•    When: June
•    Weird Record: 567 worms charmed in 30 minutes.

Dorset Knob Throwing – Dorset

Throwing hard, dry biscuits (aka Dorset Knobs) as far as possible. Includes bonus events like knob-and-spoon races and knob eating.
•    When: August
•    We Say: Go for the puns, stay for the chaos.

Bonus Bizarre British Events

Don’t miss out on these other gems, some of which are featured on Somewhere Weird:
•    Toe Wrestling Championship (Derbyshire)
•    Man vs Horse Marathon (Wales)
•    Black Pudding Throwing (Ramsbottom)
•    Snail Racing (Norfolk)

Planning Your Visit

To get the most out of your weird British experience:
✅ Check local event websites for dates and ticket requirements
✅ Arrive early – these events get packed
✅ Bring waterproofs – especially for bogs and gravy pits
✅ Respect the traditions – they might be strange, but they’re taken seriously!

Weird, Wonderful & Unforgettable

Whether you’re looking for something different to do or just love a good story, these competitions offer a uniquely British adventure — eccentric, heartwarming, and totally unforgettable.

Browse more weird events in the UK and start planning your eccentric escape.

FAQ

Can anyone enter these competitions?

Many events are open to all — but some (like the Olney Pancake Race) have local-only rules. Always check the event website.

Are they safe?

Most are harmless fun, though events like cheese rolling can be risky. Know your limits!

Do they really attract tourists?

Yes — people travel from around the globe to watch (and participate in) these weird British traditions.