London Pantomime Horse Race

A relative newcomer to the calendar of unusual sporting events in the UK is the London Pantomime Horse Race which has been running (not continuously, I hasten to add) and after a few years in abeyance is returning in 2024. It’s a costumed charity fundraising fun-run around the streets of Greenwich and the event begins like all the best horse races with a parade of the entrants, who are two-person traditionally costumed pantomime equines in the main, with perhaps a cow or unicorn to add a little variety. You can expect perhaps around forty horses taking part, with numerous pit-stops for refreshment at hostelries en route as horsing around can be thirsty work, with other entertainers such as celebrity special guests, musicians and more. The race ends with a space-hopper finale over the sticks for the leaders, which can descend very quickly into complete anarchy! An after-race party with prize-giving follows at the Morden Arms.

Helpful Hints

In 2024 it should be on Sunday December 15th and the theme is United Neightions, with each entrant representing a country. This year’s chosen charity os Great Ormond Street Hospital.

The race makes a welcome return a after a few years’ break due to covid and funding issues.

It’s a free family friendly event – and all are encouraged to give generously if they can as it’s all for good causes. There’s a great atmosphere even when everyone is frozen and soaked! The party cost £15 in 2017 and the theme for the year was Rock and Pop Icons. It went ahead even in snow as you can see from the 2017 photos.

Click here for the event  Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/pantohorserace.org/