South Sinai Camel Festival

If an afternoon at Ascot or a night down at Walthamstow just doesn't cut it for you in the racing stakes, perhaps you should be heading to Egypt next month.

The South Sinai Camel Festival attracts around 250 riders and their camels from 17 different Egyptian tribes for what promises to be a month-long exhibition of some breathtaking action.

While camels are known as lumbering, somewhat ponderous beasts, they can in fact get up quite a head of steam when in the mood, as this event in Sharm El-Sheikh will demonstrate.

Although opportunities for visitors to take part in the races themselves are thankfully limited, spectators will have much to enjoy.

The town is also a fine base for enjoying some fine diving and visitors flock here throughout the year to enjoy the underwater depths.