The London Pantomime Horse Race
Horse Training Day in Greenwich for the 5th Annual London Pantomime Horse Race.
Hailed by Time Out as ‘fantastically silly’ and a ‘must-see event’, the annual London Pantomime Horse Race in December is one of the capital’s most unmissable and unique Christmas charity events.
Over 40 Panto horses – not to mention the odd cow and zebra – take part in the fun-packed comedy race through the streets of Greenwich, all in the name of raising money for Demelza Children’s Hospice.
Thousands of supporters pack the streets to cheer on their favourite furry gee-gees and the event has attracted celebrity support from the likes of Arthur Smith, Harry Hill, and Bill Bailey.
The streets of Greenwich are transformed into a course for comical, cantering ponies as they race from Devonport House stopping off at various pubs, before staggering to the finishing line.
International media have featured the race, delighting in the deliciously absurd sight of galloping pantomime horses accompanied by crowds of fans in bizarre fancy dress.
Once the horses have passed the winning post, there’s a lively post-race Christmas party to enjoy.
So far, the pantomime races have raised thousands for various charities.
The race was founded by Mark Biddiss who teamed up with James Herring and Peter Mountstevens of Taylor Herring to promote and expand the event in 2014.