Scuttlebrook Wake

The Scuttlebrook Wake in Chipping Campden is a delightful and unique tradition that brings the local community and visitors together for a day of celebration, entertainment, and camaraderie.

Held on the late May Bank Holiday, this quirky event has been a cherished part of the town’s heritage for over a century.

May Day Merriment: The Scuttlebrook Wake is essentially a May Day celebration, and it’s an occasion that the people of Chipping Campden eagerly anticipate. It marks the arrival of spring and is a time to revel in the changing of the seasons.

Decorated Stream: The central focus of the event is the Scuttlebrook Wake Stream, which flows through the heart of the town. In the days leading up to the event, local volunteers decorate the stream with an array of colourful flowers and greenery, creating a picturesque and enchanting backdrop.

Fancy Dress Parade: One of the most entertaining aspects of the Scuttlebrook Wake is the fancy dress parade. Residents, visitors, and even pets don creative and often humorous costumes. The parade winds its way through the town, providing a visual spectacle of creativity and humour that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

Morris Dancing: Traditional Morris dancers, resplendent in their colourful attire, perform throughout the day, adding a sense of tradition and folklore to the event. Their lively and rhythmic dances are a captivating sight, and their infectious enthusiasm encourages audience participation.

Entertainment and Stalls: The Scuttlebrook Wake features a wide range of entertainment, including:

• live music
• games
• fairground rides
• food stalls.

It’s an opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy a day of festivity.

Crowning of the Queen: A significant highlight of the event is the crowning of the Scuttlebrook Queen. A local girl is chosen to be the queen for the day and is crowned in a traditional ceremony. She leads the parade and is a central figure in the festivities.

Community Spirit: The Scuttlebrook Wake embodies the strong sense of community in Chipping Campden. It’s a day when residents and visitors alike come together to celebrate the town’s history and culture. The event fosters a sense of togetherness and belonging.

Continuing Tradition: The Scuttlebrook Wake is a living tradition that has been cherished for generations. Its continuation reflects the deep-rooted pride that the people of Chipping Campden have in their town’s heritage and the joy they take in sharing it with others.

In conclusion, the Scuttlebrook Wake in Chipping Campden is a testament to the town’s unique character and the enduring spirit of its community. This delightful celebration is a time-honoured tradition that brings together residents and visitors for a day of laughter, merriment, and a touch of whimsy in the heart of the Cotswolds. It’s a charming event that allows everyone to embrace the beauty of spring and the joy of coming together in celebration.

Image Credit: Scuttlebrook Wake