Fabulous folk traditions

Discover the weird and wonderful rituals that communities across the nation are keeping alive

- CAROLINE BEDDOW

Anyone doubting that Britain leads the world in eccentricity should take a look at our regional folk gatherings. From boat-burning to rushbearing, there's a rich calendar of bizarre and wonderfully bonkers events. Here are just a few.

Scotland’s Burryman

On 7 August, the streets of South Queensferry in Edinburgh will be lined with people eager to catch a glimpse of the walking hedge-like creature that is the ‘Burryman’.

Covered from head to toe in thousands of burrs, the sticky Velcro-like seed heads of the Burdock plant, and topped with a floral bowler hat, the Burryman walks the streets of the town bringing good luck. Folklore suggests its origins date back to the 10th century, when Scotland’s King Malcolm III was on the run from the English and escaped notice by covering himself in burrs.

THE HAXEY HOOD