Horn Dance
Abbots Bromley
In the heart of England, the Abbots Bromley Horn Dancers wield ancient reindeer antlers, their origins told to be from fierce Vikings, with a stunning radiocarbon date of 1065 (± 80 years). These weathered relics, steeped in mystery, come alive each year in a mesmerising ritual—the Horn Dance—that pulses with the echoes of history, inviting us to unravel the secrets of a tradition that binds past to present in a captivating spectacle.
Horn Dance Performers kept in time by the triangle © Martin Urch
Imagine the historical moment unfolding in England. The year is 1066, a time of monumental upheaval, where destiny takes a dramatic turn. The death of Anglo-Saxon King Edward the Confessor in January sparks a succession crisis that ignites a fierce power struggle. In an epic showdown, the Anglo-Saxons clash with relentless Viking warriors at the Battle of Stamford Bridge, only to face another formidable foe—the Normans—at the legendary Battle of Hastings. This year is defined by bravery, chaos, and fierce battles that will shape the future of England!
The Horn Dance is a captivating tradition that transcends its origins. As we delve deeper, we’ll discover how the enchanting characters of Abbots Bromley resonate through the ages, spanning five centuries, weaving a rich tapestry that connects us to a vibrant history and culture. As a frequent visitor to English heritage events, I have never felt more involved, as we will explore.
Merrie England
In my September photo-essay (Steampunk), I delved into the intriguing culture of the Victorian era, and I’ll start from there as we journey back to the origins of the Horn Dance. Victorians were captivated by the charm of ancient folk traditions, seeking to revive, document, and romanticise the enchanting notion of what they called “Merrie England.”
The Horn Dance features a vibrant cast of time-travel characters who bring the performance to life. There are six dancers adorned with antlers (11th century), a jester known as the Fool (12th century), a lively Hobby Horse (14th century), a sharp-eyed Bowman, and an enchanting Maid Marian (15th century). The performance is reminiscent of mumming theatricality documented in the 18th and Victorian 19th century.
This captivating blend of Horn Dance characters brings history to life and is intricately woven into the fabric of Abbots Bromley’s local identity. Dance participants spread playful joy and blessings, linking spectators to their ancestors and the land. The dance with antlers remains the core. They represent rituals without Christian significance, yet are safeguarded on display in the parish church, a testament to the rural community’s pride in preserving its cultural heritage.
My Experience
Antlers taken down inside St. Nicholas Church © Martin Urch
Abbots Bromley awaited me, a journey of over three hours from home, so I decided to make the most of it by arriving the night before. I planned to witness the enchanting early ceremony at St. Nicholas Church. The morning started on a delightful note with crispy bacon sandwiches and steaming coffee at the Church House. As the clock struck 7:30 AM, I made my way to the church, its doors flung wide open, beckoning visitors inside. Under the soft glow of the morning window light, I watched the ancient antlers respectfully lowered from their lofty place high on the wall, ready to partake in a celebration steeped in tradition.
The procession heading towards the village green © Martin Urch
After an 8 am service led by Reverend Davis, the lively procession burst into motion, heading towards the village green. The fool’s outrageous antics and the upbeat rhythm of the music injected a delightful sense of humour and energy into the air. Meanwhile, the stately strides of the antler-bearing dancers exuded the weighty tradition of ancient rites steeped in hunting, fertility, and the changing of the seasons. After captivating the crowd with a performance in front of the medieval Butter Cross, framed by elegant Georgian houses and charming half-timbered cottages, we picked up the pace, with a lively triangle keeping time.
Performing the Horn Dance in Goose Lane © Martin Urch
Two accordions played a lively blend of English folk tunes, raising everyone’s spirits and charging the atmosphere with excitement. Bathed in warm September sunshine under a brilliant blue sky—a rare treat for the UK—we felt the festival’s joyful energy. As we strolled down Goose Lane, the locals welcomed us with various hot and cold snacks for the occasion. I initially thought these delightful bites were solely for the dancers and musicians, but to my surprise, they were meant for everyone!
Bowman shoots the Hobby Horse. Visitors practice the steps © Martin Urch
We indulged in freshly baked sausage rolls, crispy hash browns, savoury pastries, and refreshing drinks that perfectly complemented the festive atmosphere. The invitation to join in the fun made the experience even more special. Spectators weren’t just bystanders; we were encouraged to participate, trying our hand at the Horn Dance steps while bearing the impressive antlers. This was more than just an event; it was a celebration of community and tradition, and we were all a part of it!
Accordions and Triangle playing at Yeatsall Farm © Martin Urch
Our road took us to Yeatsall Farm on Yeatsall Lane, where I was eager to snap photos of the captivating accordion and triangle players. As I crouched low for an angle to show their stature, an unexpected event unfolded—the Horn Dancers spontaneously encircled me, grinning mischievously and declaring, “You can’t get out now!” It was a whirlwind moment of laughter, perfect for close-up photography. If only I had remembered to bring a wider lens!
While I was delighted to be captured by the dancers, it delayed my plan to leave early for the following location. The dancers and musicians are driven to Admaston Village and Blithfield Hall, and I was on foot! I would be behind the performances, so I walked back towards Abbots Bromley’s village centre. I found the best double beef burger I’ve ever tasted, washed down with a cold beer. The Goats Head pub is not to be missed!
Little Dunstable Farm performance © Martin Urch
At 1 pm, it was time to walk to Little Dunstall Farm, the next location for the Horn Dance procession. Arriving early was a stroke of luck—this place was absolutely magical! Delicious afternoon tea wafted through the air beside the charming timber-framed and brick farmhouse, creating a quintessentially English village atmosphere. Villagers filled the scene with vibrant melodies, strumming instruments and singing traditional English folk tunes that resonated in the picturesque surroundings. Spectators lounged in deckchairs on the lush lawn, soaking in the delightful ambience. It truly felt like a scene straight out of “Merrie England!”
The Horn Dance arrived by minibus at 2 p.m. as the main event. Once dancing and audience participation had concluded, performers walked into Abbots Bromley village to perform their artistry before the pubs and surrounding houses. They would return the antlers to St Nicholas Church at 8 p.m. to be stored for another year. I did not make this part of the journey, needing to journey home for a holiday starting the following day, September 9th. I’m thrilled that I’ll return next year to complete the experience!
Conclusion
Traditions contain lessons from the past. The spirit of Abbots Bromley Horn Dance is both playful and profound. It’s a communal celebration that brings together villagers and visitors in a shared experience of music, movement, and merriment. It’s a performance and a living village ritual, where participants and onlookers feel part of something larger— a thread connecting past, present, and future. Horn Dance is a beautiful way to honour centuries of English heritage.
What next?
Discover Seaford’s blazing parade led by Lord Monteagle’s effigy in my November photo essay. Dive into its direct ties to the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, where Monteagle’s warning exposed Guy Fawkes’ explosive scheme, earning him Seaford lands as a reward. Perfect for history buffs seeking Bonfire Night’s roots! #SeafordBonfire
Martin Urch Photography owns the copyright to all writing and images
