Morris dancing styles

From Cotswold and Border Morris to Molly, Rapper, Longsword and clog dancing, discover the many dance traditions seen at Swanage.
AnonymousMOrris - Judith Proctor are dancing at the Swanage Folk Festival

Border Morris

Loud, energetic and theatrical dances from the Welsh border counties, often using sticks, drums, face paint and Tatters (rag jackets).

taeppas tump swanage 2025 v2 - Anne Wilson are dancing at the Swanage Folk Festival

North West Morris

Dances inspired by workers in the cotton weaving industries in the North West of England, dance patterns represent the working of the looms and shuttles.

THales dancers sword Keep for blurb

Rapper sword dancing

Fast, intricate dances using flexible linked swords, traditionally performed in pubs and streets across North East England.

Holly-Copse-Molly are dancing at the Swanage Folk Festival

Molly dancing

A lively East Anglian tradition mixing dance, character performance and humour, often with colourful costumes and playful chaos.

Southern Star Longsword

Longsword dancing

Traditional linked-sword dances from Yorkshire and northern England, combining teamwork, rhythm and carefully woven formations.