The countdown is on to the UK’s oldest pancake race and the bookies’ favourites are in
The countdown is officially on to the Olney Pancake Race, the UK’s oldest and most famous pancake race, with the Buckinghamshire town, located just over the Northants border, preparing to welcome the crowds for Shrove Tuesday 2026.
Taking place on Tuesday 17th February, the centuries-old tradition will once again see local women race 415 yards along Olney High Street, frying pan in hand, flipping pancakes in front of packed crowds. With more than 550 years of history behind it, the race remains one of the most distinctive fixtures in the British calendar, combining fast-paced action and genuine local rivalry.
The 2026 race is proudly sponsored by George Davies Turf & Stone, Bonne Maman®, Kingsley Healthcare, Blackstone® and Whitworth Bros. Ltd, continuing the strong tradition of local and national businesses backing this iconic community event.
With race day approaching, speculation is already building about who could take the title this year. Among the early bookies’ favourites is Nicolle Murfitt, representing George Davies Turf & Stone, whose name is already being whispered along the High Street as one to watch due to her extensive Hyrox experience. Another one to watch is last year’s winner, Eloise Kramer, and last year’s runner-up, Linda Church, alongside a strong field of returning and first-time runners.
David Phillipson, chairman of the Olney Pancake Race Committee 2026, said: “The Olney Pancake Race is a wonderful highlight of the local calendar. It’s fast, noisy, slightly chaotic and completely rooted in the community. Every year there’s excitement about who might win and that sense of anticipation really builds in the days leading up to Shrove Tuesday. We’re counting down to another unforgettable race.”
Sponsor, George Davies, owner and director of George Davies Turf & Stone, added: “As a local business, it means a great deal to us to be able to support something so historic and so loved by the town. The Pancake Race is part of Olney’s identity and we’re proud to play a role in keeping it going. Having one of our own tipped as a favourite just adds to the excitement.”
Race Day Schedule – Tuesday 17 February 2026
8.00 - Pancake Breakfast in the George Davies Turf & Stone Marquee on the Market Place, with Ben Francis, Senior Head Chef of The Cherry Tree Pub & Restaurant
9.00am – 1.00pm Hot Pancakes, tea & coffee, and stalls in the Market Place. Come and see the town Fire Engine and look out for Homepride Fred
10.00am – 1.00pm Hot Pancakes, tea & coffee plus stalls in the Church Hall
10.00am – 1.00pm Children’s Entertainment in the Market Place
From 10.00am Children’s Races on the north side of the Market Place
10.45am – 11.30am Cookery demonstration in the marquee on the Market Place
11.00am Runners for the Olney Pancake Race assemble and register in the marquee
11.55am Olney Pancake Race sponsored by Bonne Maman starts near the pedestrian crossing
12 noon Finish of the Race in Church Street
12 noon – 1.30pm Activities in the marquee once the race has started, including Splat the Rat, decorating your own pancake, and colouring, plus stalls in the marquee and in the Market Place
12.15pm Shriving Service in St Peter & St Paul’s Church
More details are on the race website olneypancakerace.org, on Facebook @olneypancakerace and on Instagram @theolneypancakerace.