Congham World Snail Racing Championship

Where: Congham, Norfolk at the Grimston Cricket Field on Lynn Road
When: A Saturday in July
Time: From 2pm - 4pm

 

Snail Racing

Snails are prevalent in the marshy land of Norfolk, making it a natural setting for a mollusc racing event. The competition had been running (or more accurately slowly sliding) more than quarter of a century pre-covid and it’s held on a specially marked moist tablecloth; the course is only thirteen inches but still takes a few minutes as the competitors move literally at a snails pace. The competitors are lined up inside a circle, facing outwards towards the finishing line and the first to inch over the outer circle wins its heat. You can expect a couple of hundred entrants with heats of fifteen-at-a-time throughout the afternoon, ending with a grand final for the winners of each heat- the Champ receives a  tankard stuffed with lettuce. As well as the Championship there may be traditional accompaniments to a typical village fete like cake stalls, tombola and morris dancing.

Helpful Hints

In 2024 it was on 6th July (it used to be on the 3rd Saturday in the month in the past but since the first revival it’s move a little earlier). 2025 date is yet to be announced.

It’s part of the village fete and the snail racing raises money for the local church. Entry fees are very reasonable at £1 and snails are provided on the day for those who wish to hire them – some competitors raised their own to bring on the day.

Parking is available free on site – just follow Lynn Road until you see Stewards who will direct you in.

Click here for the event website : https://snailracing.world



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