Scottish country dancing is a fun activity. Most dances are danced in a longwise set of four couples with the four ladies facing the four men. After each turn of the dance the couple at the top who started the dance end up one place further down the set, eventually arriving at the bottom. Then each of the other couples, having reached the top, take their turn to dance and gradually progress to the bottom. Some dances are in a square formation or sometimes dancers form two couple sets and dance progressively around the room.

The dances are either jigs and reels (danced to a faster rythmn) or strathspeys (danced to a slower
rythmn) and occasionally a medley.

There are many ways that you can become involved in Scottish Dancing. The easiest way is to just come along to one of the London Branch beginners’ classes which take place every week. You don’t need any special clothes or shoes to begin with, just wear something comfortable and trainers or soft shoes and you don’t have to bring a partner either!

The Elementary class takes place every Wednesday during term time from 6.30 – 8.00 p.m. at Marlborough School, Sloane Ave. SW3 (see Classes page for more details)

The Branch has several activities designed to introduce newcomers to Scottish Country Dancing. Try our Open Air Dancing sessions in Kensington Gardens,  or maybe our Family dances which take place in November and March or our Burns’ Night ceilidh dance.

One of our outdoor events suitable for beginners and newcomers is a Garden Dance at Polesden Lacey. Click on the thumbnails below to view pictures taken at the event.

Photos by Stephen Webb