Greenwich Easter Lifting

Once a common custom all across England, the tradition of lifting (or heaving) became frowned upon by the Victorians and fell out of popular practise.

'What did those stuffy Victorians disapprove of now!' you may say. 'Look how wholesome! How can morris dancing and ribbons and a throne of flowers be problematic?!'

Oh, you know. Human sacrifice. Fertility rituals. Blasphemy. Drunkenness. Blackmail. Pagan worship. Public indecency.

The usual.

Thought to be the only remaining occurrence of this tradition, you'll get to see the Blackheath Morris group (you may have seen them in the 2012 Olympic closing) lifting and dancing at pubs all over Greenwich, walk off your bank holiday indulgences around one of London's prettiest boroughs, and see and learn about the custom that caused such public outcry-and, if you're a brave woman, jump in the throne yourself!

(Don't worry, they very rarely sacrifice people any more.)

Keep an eye on the comments in the morning to find out how to spot us and feel free to message Kathy for any questions. Both Greenwich Market and the Cutty Sark right next door should also be open from 10am, so feel free to arrive early to grab breakfast or tour the famous ship, and if people fancy it we'll hit the pub for a drink and a chat afterwards!

(This is a free event, so we ask that you please keep RSVPs updated to ensure that as many people as possible who want to come are able to. Cancellations with less than three days’ notice may be removed from the group to prevent wasted spaces in future. Many thanks for your understanding!)