NewsUK NewsCooper's Hill Cheese-Rolling and WakeEverything you need to know about cheese rolling as 2026 Cooper's Hill race gets underwayThe 2026 Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling is set to take place today as people flock from across the globe to watch and take part in the daredevil, and utterly bonkers, British event11:50, 25 May 2026Racers are preparing to throw themselves down the terrifyingly steep hill after the wheel of cheese(Image: Anita Maric / SWNS)Racers in Gloucestershire are preparing to throw themselves down a steep hill to chase after a 7lb wheel of cheese - here's what you need to knowEvery year thousands of spectators and daredevil competitors flock to Cooper's Hill near Gloucester to watch or participate as people tumble down a steep hill after a wheel of cheese.The quirky tradition is believed to date back over 600 years, with the first written record appearing in 1826, making this year the 200th year on record. Its origins remain a mystery, though some have said it began as a pagan festival to mark the start of summer. Despite being cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid pandemic, the cheese was still symbolically rolled down the hill to keep the tradition alive.Participants throw themselves down Cooper's Hill, chasing a 7lb wheel of Double Gloucester cheese that can reach speeds of up to 80mph. The 180m hill has a staggering 1:2 gradient, making it the steepest slope in Gloucestershire.The steep gradient means most racers fall to the bottom, rather than run. With loose rocks, stinging nettles and a terrifyingly steep incline, injuries are expected at the event. Most people taking part end up taking a spill, or two, and broken bones and dislocations are not uncommon.The first person to cross the finish line at the bottom will win the prized wheel of cheese. Anyone over 18 years old who's feeling daring can take place in the event without registering beforehand, you simply need to show up at the top of the hill on the day.There are separate downhill races for men and woman, as well as an uphill race for children to make sure everyone gets chance to take part in this bonkers event. The first race is set to take place at 12pm. This year, there are 7 races.There is no official organising body for the event, and participants are warned they take part at their own risk. Emergency services even warn people not to take part. People are advised to try and wear some form of protective clothing if they plan on taking part.Participants from around the world now flock to the village to battle it out. last year, Tom Kopke from Germany took victory in the first men's race, giving him back to back wins after his 2024 victory. Local man Luke Preece won the second men's race last year. Meanwhile Ava Sender Logan took the win for the women's competition in her debut event.‌