No one really understands when Cheese Rolling at Copper's Hill started.  It could date back to Roman Time or even earlier.  What is known, is that it used to be based on Midsummers day, so there may be a link to an ancient fertility or comming of age ceremony.

In more recent times the race has been held on every Spring Bank Holiday Monday, which in 2006 is the 29th May.

The main race involves chasing a 7lb Double Gloucester Cheese down a 1 in 2 slope. The winner claims the cheese and there are prizes for second and third place too (but not much more than a pint or two's worth :-).

There are other races, like a race up the hill too, which kids can take part in.

How to Enter

There are seperate races for men and women. All you have to do is turn up on the day - there is no entry fee, get to the top of the hill and if you dare......GO!

How to Get There

Cooper's Hill is near Brockworth. Take the A416 from Gloucester to Cirencester.  Pass under the Motorway and then take the A46 to Stroud.  You'll see signs for Cooper's Hill.

Usually there is around 5,000 people there so get there early to ensure you have a parking space in the alloted fields.  For more information http://www.cheese-rolling.co.uk/