The Gold Hill Cheese Race
The world-famous race up iconic Gold Hill — made famous by the Hovis advert.
The World Famous Gold Hill Cheese Race
One of the most iconic events at the Shaftesbury Food Festival — the Gold Hill Cheese Race challenges contestants to carry a 23kg round of cheese up the famous cobbled Gold Hill, made world-famous by the Hovis bread advert.
This beloved tradition draws crowds from across the region and beyond. Participants of all ages are catered for, with races for different age groups throughout the morning. It's a true test of strength, stamina and determination on one of England's most picturesque and steepest streets.
Generous prizes are available from our sponsors, and every entrant receives a race number on entry. Whether you're here to race or cheer — it's an unforgettable experience.
Race Details
Date & Time
3rd May 2026
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location
Gold Hill
Shaftesbury, Dorset
Age Groups
All ages catered for
Multiple race categories
Prizes
Generous prizes
from our sponsors
Race Day Schedule
We'll do our best to give everyone a run. The winner of each heat progresses to the next round, and we only time first place.
Kids' Races
Open to anyone aged 7 up to 16. Heats run throughout the morning.
Adult Heats
Adult races begin from midday. Winner of each heat progresses to the semi-finals.
Semi-Finals
Heat winners race head-to-head for a place in the final.
Finals
The final showdown up Gold Hill — first place is timed.
Times are indicative and may shift slightly depending on the number of entries on the day.
Important Information
- This is a strenuous race and not for the faint-hearted.
- Not suitable for anyone with existing medical conditions.
- On hot days, bring your own water — we will supply water stations.
- Please check with a medical professional if in doubt.
Enter the Cheese Race
Fill in the form below to register your entry. You'll receive race details and your race number via email.
Category Sponsors
We are grateful to the following sponsors for supporting a category in this year's Cheese Race.
Cheese Race FAQs
Everything you need to know about taking part or watching the Gold Hill Cheese Race.
One of the festival’s most iconic features. Competitors race up the steep cobbles of Gold Hill carrying a 23kg wheel of cheese, cheered on by crowds lining the route. It’s fast, funny, and very Dorset!
Entry is FREE but must be booked via Eventbrite.
Some elements are FREE but require booking, including:
- Gold Hill Cheese Race entry
- Your place in the audience for the MasterChefs LIVE demos (tickets by donation)
- Park & Ride parking
Booking in advance is via Eventbrite.
The festival takes place across historic streets, including some steep and uneven areas such as the cobblestones of Gold Hill.
Accessibility support is considered across the site, but visitors with specific needs are encouraged to plan ahead or contact the organisers for advice before attending: hello@shaftesbury-food-festival.co.uk.
