Thousands gather for Gloucestershire’s annual cheese-rolling festival

Thousands Gather for Gloucestershire’s Annual Cheese-Rolling Festival

*Cooper’s Hill, Gloucestershire, May 2025* – Thousands of spectators and thrill-seekers gathered at Cooper’s Hill in Gloucestershire for the county’s famous annual cheese-rolling festival, an event that continues to capture the imagination of people locally and from across the world.

The Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event, held every year on the late May bank holiday, is one of Britain’s most eccentric and beloved traditions. Crowds watched as competitors chased a nine-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down the notoriously steep and uneven hill, vying to be the first to cross the finish line at the bottom.

Tom Kopke Retains His Title

This year’s race saw repeat success for Tom Kopke, a YouTuber who clinched victory for the second consecutive year. Kopke, who has gained recognition for his daring performances, was quoted saying, “I risked my life for this.” His back-to-back triumph places him among a select group of competitors who have managed to win multiple times at the event.

Kopke’s victory was greeted with resounding applause from the crowd and has further cemented his reputation in the world of cheese-rolling. His success in the races over the past two years highlights the unique blend of athleticism, courage, and luck required to win this unpredictable contest.

A Tradition Watched Around the World

Gloucestershire’s cheese-rolling festival has gained global fame through extensive media coverage and viral online videos, with viewers from across the world following the spectacle. The event is well-known for the high spirits, jubilant crowds, and frequent tumbles as racers navigate the treacherous descent.

Many competitors, both local and international, returned to take part in the 2025 event. As usual, the festival saw participants of all ages and backgrounds braving the hill, with some racers taking falls but emerging unscathed and smiling at the bottom. Medical staff were on hand for those needing assistance.

Honouring Past Champions

Organisers also announced plans to honour late cheese-rolling champions at the 2025 event, paying tribute to individuals who have contributed to the history and enduring appeal of the tradition. Details on the commemorations will be shared in due course, acknowledging the legacy left by past winners and community members who have supported the festival over the years.

A Landmark on the Festival Calendar

The 2025 Gloucestershire cheese-rolling festival captured the community spirit and sense of adventure that have defined the event since its origins. Local reports described crowds watching “agog” as racers sprinted, slid, and somersaulted their way to the finish line.

Both locals and first-time visitors remarked on the warm atmosphere and sense of camaraderie, with the event serving as a highlight on the region’s cultural calendar.

Looking Ahead

With another successful year behind it, the Cooper’s Hill cheese-rolling festival is set to return in 2026. Organisers, competitors, and cheese enthusiasts alike look forward to preserving this unique piece of British heritage and welcoming crowds for more heart-stopping races in the years to come.

For full results, race video footage, and photographs from the 2025 cheese-rolling festival, fans can visit [Gloucestershire Live](https://news.google.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?oc=5).