Myths, legends and traditions of UK

1. Cheese-rolling in Gloucester:

With records of cheese-rolling in Gloucestershire, South West

England, dating back hundreds of years, the annual tradition is still a
world-famous event.
Why the locals first decided to roll a cheese down an extremely
steep hill all those years ago is highly debated.
Some believe it was a requirement to maintain grazing rights on
the common, whereas others suggest it stems from a pagan ritual of
rolling objects down hills to encourage a successful harvest.
2. King Arthur and Excalibur:
 The legend of King Arthur is one of the most famous in Britain, with
many stories of bravery and romance featuring in his character.
Although his existence is debated, his tales live on in British
folklore. Probably the most famous is the tale of the sword and the
stone, which sees Arthur pull the sword of Excalibur from a stone
and, in doing so, reveals himself as the rightful King of England.
Some believe the London Stone is in fact, the stone that Arthur
drew his sword from, and you can see it for yourself at the Museum
of London.
3. Morris dancing:

With their bells, sticks, swords and all-important handkerchiefs,

there’s something distinctly English about Morris dancing.
The traditional folk dance is thought to have originated in the early
15th century and derived from a Druidic fertility dance.
The dance remains popular, with many believing that it has magical
powers to ward off evil and bring good luck.
Throughout the years, different regions of the UK have developed
their own styles and nuances of Morris dancing – whether that’s the
wearing of clogs in the North West or the use of short sticks and
feathers in the Borders.
4. Wife carrying race:

If you think your husband is strong enough to carry you in a race,

then you may be in with a chance of winning this odd tradition, held
in Dorking, Surrey every March. The sport actually originates from
the Viking invasion of 793AD. The tradition wasn't revived in the UK
until 2008, but now comes with a friendlier feel. The winner receives
£100 and a barrel of ale, while the carrier of the heaviest wife is given
a pound of sausage.
5. World Hen Racing Championship:
 If you like the idea of watching a bunch of hens racing each other,
then head on down to the World Hen Racing Championship, which
takes place annually at the Barley Mow Inn in Bonsall, Derbyshire.
Some hen owners now even train their hens for the traditional race,
which dates back over 100 years.
6. Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival:

Every January, The Whittlesea Straw Bear Festival takes place,

which dates back more than 200 years. The strange festival consists
of a performer wearing a five-stone metal and straw bear costume,
while parading through the town streets with a troupe of
Appalachian and Morris dancers.