Celebrated UK Traditions & Attractions

Ascot Racecourse: A Royal Tradition

Ascot Racecourse is a prestigious British racecourse located in Ascot, Berkshire, renowned for horse racing. It was founded in 1711 by Queen Anne. Royal Ascot is the centrepiece of Ascot's year. Every year, Royal Ascot is attended by Queen Elizabeth II and other members of the British Royal Family, such as the Prince of Wales, arriving each day in a horse-drawn carriage.

Shrove Tuesday: Pancake Day Races

Shrove Tuesday, also known in some countries as Pancake Day, falls in February or March, preceding Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent). It is celebrated in some countries by consuming pancakes. On Pancake Day, races are held in villages and towns across the United Kingdom. The tradition is said to have originated in 1445 when a housewife was so busy making pancakes that she forgot the time. When she heard the church bells ringing for the service, she ran from her house to the church, still carrying her frying pan and pancake. Participants with frying pans race through the streets, tossing pancakes into the air and catching them in the pan while running.

Eden Project: A Cornish Paradise

The Eden Project is a unique visitor attraction in Cornwall, England, which opened in 2001. It features huge, tropical gardens. Furthermore, the Eden Project serves as a gateway into understanding the relationships between plants and people. It houses three distinct biomes: Rainforest, Mediterranean, and Outdoor.

Poppy Day: UK Remembrance Day

Poppy Day, also known as Remembrance Day, is a memorial day observed in the United Kingdom since the First World War to remember members of their armed forces who have died in the line of duty. It is observed on the 11th of November (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month).

Red Nose Day: Charity and Comedy

Red Nose Day is a fundraising event in the UK. The aim is to raise money for the charity Comic Relief, which helps people in need in Africa and the UK. Comic Relief was co-founded in 1985 by screenwriter Richard Curtis, known for works such as the 'Blackadder' series, 'Four Weddings and a Funeral,' and 'Notting Hill.' It's called Red Nose Day because many people buy and wear a plastic red nose, with the money from sales going to the charity.

Guy Fawkes Night: Bonfires & Fireworks

Guy Fawkes Night, also known as Bonfire Night, is an annual commemoration of the failed assassination attempt against King James I of England (and VI of Scotland). The plan was to blow up the House of Lords during the State Opening of England's Parliament on 5th November 1605. The plot intended to install King James's nine-year-old daughter, Princess Elizabeth, as the Catholic head of state. Guy Fawkes, a member of the Gunpowder Plot, was arrested while guarding explosives. Today, it is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks.