The historic Olney Pancake Race takes place on Shrove Tuesday 13 February 2024.

The town has played host to the race over many years; it’s reputed to have taken place since 1445 and has certainly run every year since 1948, except for 2021. It attracts female runners who live or work in the town – dressed in a skirt and head scarf and clutching their frying pan and pancake, they run the 415-yard course from the Market Place, down the High Street to the race finish outside St Peter and St Paul’s Church.

Ahead of the race itself, there are lots of activities taking place in the Market Place, starting with a special pancake breakfast, prepared by local chef, Ben Francis from the Cherry Tree Pub and Restaurant. With stalls, even more pancakes, music, a grand raffle, plus races for local nurseries and school children, there will be something for everyone.

All the runners join visitors in a Shriving Service which is held in the church immediately after the race.