What is the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance?
The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance is one of Britain's oldest and most unusual folk traditions, taking place each year on Wakes Monday in the Staffordshire village of Abbots Bromley.
Dating back to at least 1226, the event sees a group of costumed dancers carry ancient reindeer antlers on a day-long procession through the village and neighbouring communities.
When is the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance?
Taking place this year on Monday 7 September 2026, the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance returns to the heart of East Staffordshire, with festivities getting underway from St Nicholas' Church at 8am.
Staffy has been uncovering some surprising facts behind one of Staffordshire's most famous traditions, from ancient reindeer antlers to fascinating customs that continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Did You Know?
How Old Is the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance?
A ritual dating back almost 800 years, the Horn Dance is traditionally linked to the Barthelmy Fair of 1226 and is widely regarded as one of Britain's oldest folk customs.
It's more than just the Deer-men
Alongside the horn bearers, traditional characters include the Fool, Hobby Horse and Maid Marian, making the procession a colourful piece of living heritage.
Why Is the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance Performed?
No one knows for certain. Some historians believe it celebrates historic hunting rights, while others suggest it evolved from a much older ritual or seasonal tradition. The mystery is part of what makes the event so fascinating.
How long is the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance route?
The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance follows a traditional route of around 10 miles, taking the dancers through Abbots Bromley and neighbouring villages including Admaston and Yeatsall. Along the way, the procession makes a number of stops, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to watch this centuries-old Staffordshire tradition up close.
People travel from around the world to see it
The Horn Dance attracts visitors from across the UK and overseas, including those making special trips to witness this unique Staffordshire tradition.
It's something the whole village gets involved in every Wakes Monday, creating a fantastic atmosphere throughout Abbots Bromley.
Can You Join the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance?
Yes. One of the most surprising aspects of the tradition is that visitors can join in during the dancers' stop at Admaston. You don't need any experience or special training. Simply introduce yourself to the dancers during their stop in Admaston and join the fun.
Just don't underestimate the famous horns. They're much heavier than they look, weighing around 22lbs!
🎥 Watch Rich Take on the Horn Dance
Take a look at Rich's visit to the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance as he experiences one of Staffordshire's most unique traditions, meets the famous Deer-men and finds out what makes this centuries-old event so special.
The Main Event
From Admaston, the procession continues to the magnificent Blithfield Hall, a Grade I listed country house that provides one of the most iconic backdrops to the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance. The Hall has been home to the Bagot family since the 14th century and remains one of the most popular points along the route for spectators.
Throughout the day, the dancers make their way around Abbots Bromley and neighbouring villages, stopping at various locations before returning to the village and continuing celebrations into the evening.
Why is the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance so famous?
A ritual which dates back almost 800 years to 1226, the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance was first performed at the Barthelmy Fair, making it one of the oldest - if not the oldest outright - folk dances in the country.
Held every year on Wakes Monday, it features 12 dancers in costume, on a day-long 10 mile walk around Abbots Bromley and surrounding East Staffordshire villages like Admaston and Yeatsall. Some are dressed as Deer-men, others as characters including the Hobby Horse, the Fool and a man in drag as Maid Marian!
Why does the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance take place?
No one knows for certain why the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance began. Some believe it was performed to celebrate King Henry I granting local people the right to hunt, while others suggest it has roots in an ancient fertility ritual. Whatever its original purpose, the centuries-old tradition continues to fascinate visitors and historians alike.
Planning Your Visit
The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance takes place every year on Wakes Monday, the first Monday after 4 September. In 2026, the event will be held on Monday 7 September, with celebrations beginning from 8am at St Nicholas' Church.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early to enjoy the village atmosphere, browse local shops and pubs, and secure a good viewing spot along the route. The procession travels around 10 miles through Abbots Bromley and nearby villages, offering several opportunities to watch the dancers throughout the day.
Where can I park for the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance?
Parking arrangements for the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance can vary from year to year. Visitors are advised to check official event information before travelling for the latest parking details, road closures and travel updates. Arriving early is recommended, as the event attracts large numbers of spectators and parking can become limited throughout the day.
Visit and see some of our many historic attractions
If you're looking to extend your day out, the National Memorial Arboretum in nearby Alrewas offers 150 acres of beautiful grounds, inspiring memorials and seasonal exhibitions to explore.
You could combine it with a visit to one of our other historic attractions, like Lichfield Cathedral (12 miles away), the only medieval three-spired cathedral in the country, or Tamworth Castle (20 miles), the capital of the ancient kingdom of Mercia.
For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Cannock Chase National Landscape is just a short drive away, offering miles of scenic walking and cycling trails through some of Staffordshire's most stunning countryside.
There's more information about these and other historic attractions on our History & Heritage page.
Staffy says: The Horn Dance might be what brings you here, but there's always more to discover in Staffordshire.
