Workington in West Cumbria is home to a tradition known as "Uppies and Downies", a traditional version of football, dating to Medieval times and with roots in even earlier games, although the modern incarnation of Uppies and Downies was rejuvenated some time in the latter half of the 19th century. Workington still holds annual Uppies and Downies matches every Easter, raising money for various local charities.

The goals are about a mile apart, one being a capstan at the harbour, and the other the gates of Curwen Hall. There were traditionally no rules, except those suggested by cunning and skill, while brute force is of the greatest importance. The 'Uppies' attempt to hail the ball (throw it up in the air three times) at the gates of Curwen Hall; the 'Downies' over a capstan at the harbour. Whoever is successful in doing so wins a sovereign, given by the owner of Curwen Hall. Curwen Hall has over the last 50 years, become run down and is the ruin we see today. Curwen Hall is owned by Allerdale Council, but no work is planned to restore Curwen Hall.

Downies is a cliff-top village in Aberdeenshire, Scotland situated on Cammachmore Bay. Historically Downies was a fishing village, until much of the local North Sea fishery collapsed from overfishing; presently Downies is chiefly a residential dormitory adjunct to the city of Aberdeen.

The local area of Downies was first recorded in medieval history in association with the Causey Mounth. Downies is positioned somewhat east with respect to the ancient Causey Mounth trackway, which route was constructed on high ground to render this only available medieval route from coastal points south from Stonehaven to Aberdeen. This passage specifically connected the River Dee crossing (where the present Bridge of Dee is situated) via Portlethen Moss, Muchalls Castle and Stonehaven to the south. The route was that taken by William Keith, 7th Earl Marischal and the Marquess of Montrose when they led a Covenanter army of 9000 soldiers in the first battle of the Civil War in the year 1639.

Coordinates: 57°02′N 2°07′W / 57.033°N 2.117°W / 57.033; -2.117