For the bravest (or craziest) eaters out there, the World Stinging Nettle Eating Championship is England’s ultimate test of pain tolerance and stomach strength. Held every June at the Bottle Inn in Marshwood, Dorset, competitors race to devour the longest raw stinging nettle stalks leaves, stings, and all in one hour. It’s painful, prickly, and proudly peculiar!
The Brutal Rules of Nettle Eating
Each entrant gets a pre-measured pile of freshly picked stinging nettles. Using only their hands and mouth (no tools!), they strip and eat as much length as possible within 60 minutes. Judges measure the total length consumed (in feet and inches), and the winner claims the title plus a trophy.
No spitting allowed everything must go down! Medical help is on hand for the inevitable mouth/throat stings, but most power through with water, determination, and sheer madness.
How This Painful Tradition Began
It started in 1986 after a pub bet: two farmers argued over who could eat more nettles. The challenge became annual, growing into a world championship that attracts hardy souls from across the globe. It’s tied to Dorset’s rural heritage nettles grow wild everywhere and celebrates old-school foraging with a competitive twist.
Records keep getting smashed, with winners sometimes downing over 70 feet of nettle in an hour!
Why It’s So Wildly Compelling to Watch
The sight of people grimacing, tearing leaves with their teeth, and battling swelling tongues is equal parts horrifying and hilarious. Spectators cheer, wince, and sometimes try a nibble themselves. It’s a true endurance oddity that highlights Britain’s love for turning discomfort into sport.
Plus, it’s for charity proceeds support local good causes.
Planning Your Visit to the Nettle Feast
Visit the Bottle Inn in Marshwood, Dorset, mid-June. Entry is affordable, and watching is free (bring tissues for the competitors!). Pair it with a scenic Dorset coast trip for the full quirky experience.
This stinging showdown shows England’s genius for extreme eating challenges. Could you handle a nettle feast? Let me know below!
