For many people, it may seem a strange concept to look at a very, terrifyingly steep hill and throw a 4 kg cheese wheel down it with the distinct purpose of chasing after it.  That, however, is just what the good people of Brockworth in Gloucester do every year.

Hilariously and seriously all at once, it should be noted that this event is not an official event with the cheesemaker, Diana Smart being warned that any injuries that happen to participants could make her liable for legal damages if she was considered an event organiser.

In theory, the idea and objective of cheese rolling is to be the first person to catch the wheel of cheese.  However, Cooper’s Hill is very unforgiving, it is often quite an achievement to make it down there in one piece even if you do not manage to catch the cheese.  Although it sounds very dangerous and the unofficial nature of it may put many people off, it should also be noted that many people participate in the event to raise money for local charities and other good causes and for the fact that it brings the people of the local community together, it is also a positive thing.

This is definitely one of the weirder events on this site, but it is still nevertheless deserving of a mention for the unique and offbeat approach it takes to the classic food festival.  It’s taken a fairly ridiculous activity and turned it into an annual event.