The Blakeney Greasy Pole 2026
Part of the Blakeney Sailing Regatta which runs over the whole weekend, the greasy pole dates back well over a hundred years to 1873 when the prize for winning was a hog.
The Blakeney Greasy Pole stands as one of Norfolk’s most eccentric and enduring maritime traditions. Held annually as a centrepiece of the Blakeney Regatta, this event draws crowds to the picturesque quay to witness a spectacle that is equal parts skill, slapstick, and North Sea mud.
The premise is deceptively simple: a lengthy timber pole is heavily coated in lard and suspended horizontally over the water from the side of a moored barge. Participants must navigate the treacherous, slippery surface to reach the end. While the physical goal is to snatch a prize—traditionally a leg of mutton, though now usually represented by a flag—the true objective for the spectators is to watch the inevitable, undignified plunges into the harbour below.
Managed by the Blakeney Old Wild Boys, the event preserves a sense of Victorian coastal fun. It is a celebration of community spirit where local bravery is tested against the laws of friction, providing a hilarious highlight to the village’s summer calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the Greasy Pole?
The event has been a staple of the Blakeney Regatta for over a century. Traditionally, greasy poles were common in coastal towns across the UK, often used to test the balance and agility of sailors. In Blakeney, the tradition has been fiercely protected by local families and the Regatta committee, maintaining its status as a “must-see” local custom.
How does the competition work?
Contestants take turns attempting to walk, crawl, or slide along the grease-covered pole. The pole is suspended over the water at high tide to ensure a safe (if muddy) landing. The winner is the first person to successfully reach the end and retrieve the prize without falling into the harbour.
What is the prize for winning?
In years past, the victor would claim a leg of mutton tied to the end of the pole—a substantial prize for a working-class family. In the modern era, the mutton has largely been replaced by a symbolic flag, which the winner then exchanges for a trophy, a voucher, or a cash prize.
Who can enter the event?
Entry is typically open to the public, though participants are usually divided into categories based on age. It is a popular challenge for both locals and brave visitors. Entrants are advised that they will get wet and will likely be covered in a fair amount of grease and harbour silt by the end of their attempt.
What should participants wear?
There is no formal dress code, but most competitors opt for old clothes they don’t mind ruining. Tight-fitting swimwear or gym gear is often preferred over baggy clothing, which can become heavy and cumbersome once wet. Fancy dress is also a common sight, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Is it safe?
The event is closely monitored by the Regatta organisers. It is timed to coincide with high tide to ensure the water is deep enough for a safe fall. However, the pole is exceptionally slippery, and the quay can be crowded; participants enter at their own risk and are expected to be confident swimmers.
Part of the Blakeney Sailing Regatta which runs over the whole weekend, the greasy pole dates back well over a hundred years to 1873 when the prize for winning was a hog.