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Morris dancing was widespread in London from the 1400s.
Today the tradition is maintained by the London Westminster Morris men who perform the English traditional morris dancing. As well as performing throughout London, this Morrris Dancing side tour the Cotswolds & other country areas where folk dancing is followed.
The Greensleeves Morris Men are based in Wimbledon in south-west London. For their dancing they wear Black breeches, white socks, white shirt, green baldric with red and black rosettes, green armbands and green bell pads but no hats. For their longsword dancing they remove the baldrics (sashes) and bells.
Morris music has many different origins evolving from popular medieval tunes and regimental marches. Traditional morris dancing sides would 'borrow' tunes from one another. Of the instruments played for the Morris, the most venerable are the pipe and tabor, also called the 'whittle and dub'. The pipe is played with one hand whilst the other beats out the rhythm for the Morris dancing on a small side drum called a tabor. Traditional London Morris sides also danced to fiddles, concertinas, accordions and melodeons.
Near London, at Watford the Woodside Morris Men perform their dancing at local pubs so take a trip up there.
Brighton, on the south coast, is just a short journey from London and it is well worth a visit. View the 'lanes' where fabulous antiques will tempt you. The Royal Pavilion at Brighton is not to be missed. It was used by Prince of Wales for his pleasure! Born in 1762, he was the oldest son of George III. He was a rebel that that scandalised the country with a succession of passionate love affairs. In spite of this he went on to become George IV.
Whilst there check out the Brighton Morris Men who perform an English ritual form of folk dancing.
Morris Men perform their traditional folk dances throughout all regions of the UK.
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