In a world obsessed with filters, flawless skin, and curated Instagram aesthetics, one competition proudly flips the script: the World Gurning Championships, where the ugliest, most grotesque face wins the crown.
Held annually in the tiny village of Egremont in Cumbria, northern England, this centuries-old tradition draws competitors who contort their faces into jaw-dropping, eye-popping, and often hilarious expressions—all while peering through a horse collar, known locally as a “braffin.”
What Is Gurning, Anyway?
Gurning—pronounced “gur-ning”—is the art of pulling the most extreme facial expression possible, typically involving bulging eyes, twisted lips, flared nostrils, and tongues lolling like overcooked spaghetti. The goal? To look as “ugly” or absurd as humanly (or inhumanly) possible.
The tradition dates back to at least the 13th century, with some historians linking it to medieval harvest festivals. Legend has it that King John himself offered a gold ring to anyone who could make a face so hideous it would scare off witches.
The Rules of the Game
Competitors must follow strict guidelines:
- They must place their face through a horse collar (the braffin).
- No hands or props are allowed—only facial muscles.
- Judges score based on originality, grotesqueness, and sheer audacity.
“It’s not just about being silly,” says 2024 champion Maggie “The Grimace” Thompson. “It’s about channeling chaos through your cheekbones.”
A Celebration of Quirk and Community
Far from a sideshow, the World Gurning Championships are a beloved part of Egremont’s Crab Fair—a historic event that also features Cumberland wrestling, greasy pole climbing, and apple-giving ceremonies.
Locals treat it with reverence. Families pass down gurning techniques like heirlooms. Some competitors spend months practicing in front of mirrors, perfecting their signature snarl or cross-eyed pout.
| Category | Age Group | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Open Gurning | 16+ | Most competitive; includes past champions |
| Junior Gurning | 5–15 | Rising stars with terrifying talent |
| Veterans’ Gurn | 60+ | Wisdom meets wackiness |
Why Gurning Matters in 2025
In an age of AI avatars and digital perfection, gurning is a defiantly human act. It celebrates imperfection, humor, and the joy of looking ridiculous on purpose.
“We’re not trying to be beautiful,” says longtime judge Harold Pike. “We’re trying to be unforgettable.”
And unforgettable they are. Videos of past champions regularly go viral on TikTok and Instagram, with hashtags like #GurnLife and #UglyIsBeautiful racking up millions of views.
How to Watch (or Compete)
The World Gurning Championships take place every September during the Egremont Crab Fair. While international competitors are welcome, locals still dominate—proof that some traditions are best kept weird and wonderfully British.
Want to try your hand? Just remember: if your face doesn’t scare the dog, you’re not gurning hard enough.
