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Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football

Ashbourne

A medieval football match played across the whole town of Ashbourne in Derbyshire, with goals three miles apart. Hundreds of players form a giant 'hug' that moves through streets, fields and the river, and shops board up their windows. It is played every Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday; the ball is 'turned up' from a plinth on Shaw Croft car park at 2pm and play can go on until 10pm.

Find a room nearby

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Where to stay

  • AshbourneA few hotels and inns, book early
  • DerbyThe most hotel choice, about 30 minutes away
  • Peak District villagesCottages and inns around Dovedale and Hartington
  • UttoxeterMore rooms about 20 minutes away

Getting there

  • Ashbourne has no railway station; Derby station is about 13 miles away
  • Shaw Croft car park, the usual town-centre parking, is where the game starts, so expect it to be closed to cars
  • Roads in and around the town are busy on both days
TipKeep well clear of the hug, as it can move quickly and without warning. Follow the instructions of marshals, police and medical staff at all times, wear old clothes and sturdy footwear, and respect people's homes and gardens.

Travel details can change, especially on event days — check with the venue or operator before you travel.

Questions people ask

Where is the best place to stay near Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football?

Ashbourne: A few hotels and inns, book early. Derby: The most hotel choice, about 30 minutes away. Peak District villages: Cottages and inns around Dovedale and Hartington. Uttoxeter: More rooms about 20 minutes away.

How do I get to Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football?

Ashbourne has no railway station; Derby station is about 13 miles away. Shaw Croft car park, the usual town-centre parking, is where the game starts, so expect it to be closed to cars. Roads in and around the town are busy on both days.

Any tips for visiting Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football?

Keep well clear of the hug, as it can move quickly and without warning. Follow the instructions of marshals, police and medical staff at all times, wear old clothes and sturdy footwear, and respect people's homes and gardens.

Which airport is closest to Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football?

The nearest airport on this site is East Midlands Airport, about 21 miles away in a straight line. See hotels near the airport.

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