On 25th July, Bedford’s historic precinct will come alive as dance sides from across the county gather to celebrate Morris dancing, the quintessential English folk tradition. Cobblestone stages will ring out with the rhythmic footwork of Cotswold Morris, the bold processions of Border teams, and the vibrant pageantry that has linked villages and towns for centuries. Whether you’re stopping by as a curious spectator or planning to stay for the day’s full programme, this free festival of bells, sticks and colourful costumes promises a feast for the senses right in the heart of Bedford..
Although steeped in heritage, Morris dancing is far from static. New choreographies and fresh musical arrangements continually breathe life into its centuries-old framework, ensuring every performance feels alive and relevant. At this year’s gathering you’ll witness time-honoured figures alongside brand-new routines spun from contemporary imagination.
Where and When
Performances will take place across all the town centre venues from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM, followed by an all-sides music session at the Hidden Barrel from 4:00 PM. For a complete schedule of locations and times, see the details below.
| Wicket Brood | Queens Oak | Golden Hare | Letchworth | Red Cuthbert | |
| 1030-1100 | Faces | Faces | Faces | Faces | Faces |
| 1115-1145 | Pigeon Square | Pigeon Square | Midland Road | Midland Road | Midland Road |
| 1200-1240 | Quarry Theatre Garden | Quarry Theatre Garden | Quarry Theatre Garden | Lunch | Lunch |
| 1250-1330 | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Quarry Theatre Garden | Quarry Theatre Garden |
| 1350-1420 | Pigeon Square | Pigeon Square | Castle | Pigeon Square | Faces |
| 1430-1515 | Faces | Harpur Square | Harpur Square | Faces | Harpur Square |
| 1530-1600 | Riverside Square | Riverside Square | Riverside Square | Riverside Square | Riverside Square |
Venues
Faces is the nickname of the giant metallic artwork on the junction of Silver Street and High Street. Dance on the square behind them, outside Maison le Vôtre.
Midland Road: Dance outside Caffé Amore/Poundland.
Pigeon Square is the nickname for Church Square. Dance outside Superdrug on Allhallows.
Quarry Theatre Garden: This is part of Bedfringe – the garden is out the back of the theatre. Please note no dogs allowed.
Harpur Square: Dance outside the library.
Castle: Dance on the mosaic below the mound.
Riverside Square: Dance in front of Naughty Pizza.
Hidden Barrel: A town centre pub on Harpur Street
