Great West Way® Travel Magazine | Issue 03

PLUS DON'T MISS!
Travelling the Great West Way is all about
discovering the real England, and alongside
the picturesque sights and seasonal events
there are all sorts of quirky customs and
traditional events that you can discover in this
vibrant swathe of England too!
Wassailing
An ancient pagan celebration performed in January
to encourage fruit trees to give a healthy harvest.
This ancient tradition still takes place in certain
village orchards, particularly in cider producing
country - and there is plenty of cider country along
the Great West Way!
Morris Men
Morris Men are one of the most well known of
England's ancient traditions. Troupes of Morris Men
dress in white with bells and ribbons and dance
traditional dances together, with much slapping of
knees and hitting of sticks! You'll likely see Morris
Men at local fairs and festivals taking place along
the Great West Way - a reminder that you're
undoubtedly in England.
Hocktide
The charming Berkshire market town of Hungerford
is reputed to be the only place in England where
locals still dress up to celebrate the medieval
festival of Hocktide. The residents of Hungerford
throw themselves into the many customs
surrounding Hocktide, which takes place annually
after Easter, including dressing up, decorating their
houses, welcoming the 'Tutti Men' and exchanging
oranges and kisses.
Swan Upping
In Windsor, the ancient custom of 'Swan Upping'
takes place in July each year, with uniformed 'Royal
Swan Uppers' travelling in traditional rowing skiffs
on the Thames to assess the health of the local
mute swans, which are by tradition the property of
the British monarch.
Oxford Traditions
Within easy reach of the Great West Way is the
university city of Oxford, which has a whole host of
quirky customs and traditions of its own, including
penny throwing, May day singing, and boat burning.
Don't forget to tag #GreatWestWay so
we can see your pictures!
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