The Great Knaresborough Bed Race is unique; it is fancy dress pageantry mixed with an excruciating timed race over a 2.4-mile course that concludes with a swim through the icy waters of the River Nidd.
It was first held in 1966 and has since attracted thousands of visitors each year. It has also inspired other similar events in the US, Germany, New Zealand and various other places in the UK.
The event in Knaresborough, which took place this year on Saturday, June 8, 2024, has helped to elevate the popularity of the town as hundreds of participants design the most creative bed floats as part of the parade.
Here are the best photos from the Knaresborough Bed Race.
9. Knaresborough Bed Race 2024
There were many creatively designed beds at the event this year. Photo: Simon Hulme
10. Knaresborough Bed Race 2024
Competitors lined up in an attempt to race through River Nidd. Photo: Simon Hulme
11. Knaresborough Bed Race 2024
Competitors raced out of the river on land and ran along the trail. Photo: Simon Hulme
12. Knaresborough Bed Race 2024
Spectators watched as bed racers ran through the town. Photo: Simon Hulme