Tradition of well-dressing

The charming custom of well-dressing is seen almost exclusively in the villages of the Derbyshire Peak District, an area particularly rich in wells and springs. This originally pagan practice of adorning wells with flowers and greenery was absorbed into the clearly Church - which also appreciated the value of its water supplies.

The wells were re-dedicated to some holy personage and, as in the present-day ceremonies, any decoration was performed as an expression of thanks-giving to God rather than to appease any water spirit.

Royal Ascot fashion

There is a long history of horse racing on the grounds at Ascot and it’s always had a royal association. King James I began the family tradition in the 16th century, becoming a huge supporter of horse races and equestrian sports. In 1711 Queen Anne was out riding near her home in Windsor Castle when she came upon an area of heath. She claimed it was “ideal for horses to gallop at full stretch.” Over the next few years she held a series of equestrian events on the site, which is the site of today’s Ascot race course.

Pearly Kings and Queens of London

Pearly Kings and Queens are one of the most intriguing, unique and beautiful attractions of London. Each London Borough has a its King and Queen, as do the City of London and the City of Westminster. It is a colourful London tradition and one that has been kept alive by a few dedicated people, who work hard on the promotion of this tradition. Today there are 30 Pearly families that are active in collecting money and fund raising different charities.

The story about Pearly Kings and Queens started in the Victorian London among street traders or 'The Costermongers', as they were called. They were selling their goods marching the streets of London, selling from baskets, later from barrows, and, finally, from static market stalls. It was usually a family business and went from the generation to generation.