Wander along the upper harbour, on a sunny morning in May, and you might stumble across an ancient tradition unfolding..
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Legend has it that in the 12th century, a nobleman accidentally killed a monk. His penance? To weave a hedge made entirely from hazel branches.
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For the centuries that followed it became tradition to plant a penny hedge in the river’s estuary, one that must withstand three tides, lord knows what fate would become of the townsfolk of Whitby should the fence not hold fast.
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During the ceremony you’ll find a crowd watching from the pathway above, whilst two locals construct the hedge, before blowing a horn and calling: ‘Out on ye!’
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The ceremony takes place on the eve of ascension which this year falls on 8 May 2024. According to folklore the fence must be weaved before 9am.
![](https://furbellow.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/CLO5329-1024x680.jpg)