The Royal Shrovetide football 2025
As a photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing many events, but Royal Shrovetide Football in Ashbourne was a whole new level of intensity, chaos, and community. This year, instead of participating as a spectator or a player, I took on the challenge of documenting the event, and it was an experience like no other. Here’s a look at what it was like to photograph this historic event and my experience talking to the locals, all while getting up close to the action.
For those unfamiliar with Shrovetide Football, it’s a two-day game that’s unlike any sport I’ve ever seen. Played between the Up’ards and Down’ards, the match spans the entire town of Ashbourne, with the goalposts placed about three miles apart, at opposite ends of the town. The ball, which is about the size of a large football, isn’t kicked—it's carried, tossed, and even passed through crowds of people, creating a level of chaos that is both thrilling and intimidating to witness.
There are no set time limits or official referees, and the only rule is to get the ball to one of the millstone goals. Players and spectators alike are caught up in the action, moving through the streets, fields, and even the river itself. As a photographer, it was an athletic feat just keeping up with the game—not chasing the ball, but staying close to the action, all while trying to capture the perfect moment.
As a photographer, my goal was to document the raw energy of the event—its sense of tradition, community, and the unique atmosphere that only Shrovetide can offer. I didn’t chase the ball like the players, but I was right there on the sidelines, often just inches from the action. At times, it felt like I was part of the game itself—dodging players, squeezing through narrow gaps, and darting from one spot to another to get the best shot.
The sheer physicality of photographing the match was a challenge. I had to constantly adapt to the movement of the crowd, the shifting position of the ball, and the unpredictable nature of the game. There were moments when players were just a breath away from me, and the energy of the crowd felt like it was pulsing through my lens. Even without actively participating in the game, the experience felt like an athletic feat in itself. Constantly moving, tracking the ball with my camera, and trying to frame the action while also staying safe amid the chaos kept me on my toes all day.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the event was the conversations I had with the locals. I’d often stop and chat with people on the sidelines about their involvement in Shrovetide over the years. I was amazed at how many elderly people, some in their 70s and 80s, were actively participating—cheering on their teams with as much passion and energy as the younger generations. One woman in particular caught my attention—she was standing just a few feet from the action, shouting “Come on Down’ards!” without missing a beat. Despite her age, she was right there in the middle of it all, totally invested in the game.
The locals' stories about how long they’ve been coming to the event were equally captivating. Some had attended for over 40 or 50 years, passing the tradition down through their families. Many of them had played when they were younger, and even now, they continue to follow the game with enthusiasm and love for the tradition. I couldn’t help but admire how this event has remained such an integral part of Ashbourne’s identity, with generations of people invested in its survival.
The physicality of the game wasn’t just in the players' actions—it was a part of my experience as well. When the match moved toward the River Henmore, I didn’t hesitate to jump right in. Photographing the game in and around the river, with its muddy waters and unpredictable current, added an entirely new layer of challenge. But that’s what made it exciting. Every step was unpredictable, just like the game itself. There I was, knee-deep in water, trying to capture the essence of the match while keeping my gear dry—an experience I won’t forget.
I only managed to catch the first day of the two-day event, but it was enough to leave me with a lasting impression. The energy, the sense of tradition, and the sheer unpredictability of the game made for a unique challenge as a photographer. I came away with some incredible shots, but I also left with a deeper understanding of the connection between the people and the game.
Documenting the Royal Shrovetide Football has made me realize just how special this event is—not just for the players, but for the entire community. It’s a celebration of Ashbourne’s history, its spirit, and its people. I’m already looking forward to next year, where I’ll have the chance to return and experience the second day of the match, this time armed with even more insight into the game’s chaos and beauty. And who knows? Maybe next year I’ll jump in the river again, camera in hand!
If you’ve never experienced Shrovetide, I highly recommend it—not just as a spectator, but as a documenter. There’s no better way to see the raw spirit of a community come to life than through your lens.
