Cooper's Hill

Every Spring Bank Holiday, Cooper's Hill becomes the stage for the Cheese-Rolling and Wake, where competitors and spectators gather from across the globe to watch people sprint down a steep 200-yard slope chasing a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese. The whole thing is genuinely anarchic—part slapstick comedy, part determined sport—and absolutely entertaining to witness.

The tradition has murky origins, though the earliest written record appears in 1826, suggesting it's probably considerably older and grew out of local customs. What started as a modest village event has evolved into something genuinely international, with past champions hailing from places like Australia, Japan, Egypt, and Canada. The "Wake" part of the name refers to the festive celebrations and gathering that happens after the racing finishes.

Outside of that one hectic spring day, Cooper's Hill is a pleasant spot for walking, offering good views across the Gloucestershire landscape. It's easily reachable from Gloucester's city centre if you want to combine a visit with exploring the cathedral or the riverside. The wider area delivers typical Cotswolds countryside—rolling fields, woodland paths, and nearby villages where you can find pubs and local shops. Even without the annual cheese spectacle, it's a worthwhile place for a country walk.