Whenever I get gloomy at the state of the world, I think about the fact that every February, the cobblestone streets of one of London’s most historic markets are bursting at the seams with enthusiastic Londoners, all of whom are ready to have some deliciously wholesome fun in the form of the annual Leadenhall Market Pancake Race.
Whether you plan on participating in the pancake tossing or are better-suited to stuffing your face on the sidelines; the spectacular Shrove Tuesday event is certainly not one to be missed. And now in its 17th year, the event is set to be bigger and better batter than ever. And I can already feel the excitement stacking up.
The Leadenhall Market Pancake Race
Kicking off at 12.30pm on Tuesday, February 17, the fan-toss-tic event will see teams of people in bowler hats (because why not?) partake in a series of 20-metre relay races, in a bid to get their names engraved on the highly coveted Golden Frying Pan. Oooh.
The race comes courtesy of legendary Leadenhall local, The Lamb Tavern, who host the (rather hectic) happenings each year. The lively lunchtime extravaganza has become a firm favourite February fixture, and so spectators are encouraged to set up shop as early as 11am in order to get a prime viewing spot.
The victorious team will not only have their names inscribed onto a frying pan that’s proudly displayed behind the bar for the remainder of the year. The winners will also take home a Lamb Tavern hamper and a £50 bar tab. If you’re not on the winning team, however, you need not give a crepe. The team that snaps up second place will be rewarded with a hamper, and the third-placers will get their hands on a well-deserved bottle of prosecco. Each participant will also be treated to a free pancake for some post-race refueling. It sounds as though the vibes are going to be as high as my pancake stack, to be honest.
This year’s Leadenhall Market Pancake Race will take place on Shrove Tuesday (February 17) from 12.30pm. The race is free to enter but teams must register to take part in advance. Find out more here.