Out of the ordinary
The English have a reputation for eccentricity and this is well reflected in just some of the weird and wonderful events that take place around the country throughout the year. Why not take the opportunity to witness something truly out of the ordinary?
Mayor weighing and nettle munching
Every May, there’s a "mayor weighing" in High Wycombe. This is an unusual way for the voting public to check that the mayor and his trustees have not put on weight by over-indulging at the public expense. Meanwhile, down in deepest Dorset there’s a little thatched pub that each June hosts an annual nettle eating contest.
More info on Dorset
Swan upping
The tradition of Swan Upping dates back to the twelfth century. It’s held each July between Sunbury and Abingdon on the River Thames. The Queen’s official Swan Marker, splendid in his scarlet uniform, counts the signets and rings and weighs each new addition.
Pancake races
On Shrove Tuesday is the Olney Pancake Race. Since 1445 contestants in this Buckinghamshire town have run a 415-yard dash tossing their pancakes as they run. The prize is a kiss from the Verger.
Marbles
On Good Friday the British and World Marbles Championships takes place. This knockout tournament between teams featuring international and champion players of the British tournament game has been held at Tinsley Green, Crawley since the 1930s. An individual championship is also contested.
Garlic Festival
If you like garlic then the Isle of Wight is the place to be for the Garlic Festival, which takes place in August. Centre stage is the Garlic Marquee with the Isle of Wight’s ‘Golden Clove’. There are many tempting garlic flavoured products to try. Also taking place on the Isle is the annual Tug of War competition as part of Cowes Week in August.
More info on the Isle of Wight
The World's Biggest Liar Competition
If we're honest, we've all bent the truth at least once or twice. It's just that some of us do it with a little more flair and cunning than others. But only a very select group of men and women have ever been crowned The World's Biggest Liar.
Each year the Bridge Inn in the Cumbrian Wasdale Valley plays host to a competition to find that very person. Contestants travel great distances to pit their oral skills against an elite field of fibbers. There aren't many rules to the competition, however, politicians and lawyers are not welcome!
More info on Cumbria
