In the small West Oxfordshire town of Bampton (Bampton-in-the-bush) Morris dancing has a very long history, and the Morris is taken quite seriously. Bampton is one of the very few English towns or villages with a unique Morris tradition that has an unbroken history stretching back centuries. The Bampton Morris dances are among the most popular of the dances favoured by revival Morris sides in England and throughout the world. Today Bampton has no fewer than three Morris sides (or teams) representing the tradition.

Welcome to the web home of the Traditional Bampton Morris Dancers where you can learn about the Bampton Morris as embodied in the history and dances of our side.

Next Appearance

We are quiet during the winter months, but look for us next Whit Monday, 25 May 2026, when we will be out in force for Bampton's day of dancing. If you want to know what that is like, click on the link above for last year's activities.

Lawrence Adams, Squire
1963 — 2026

Lawrence AdamsWe are sad to report the death of our Squire Lawrence Adams on 22nd April. Lawrence had been guiding the side for over three decades and will be sadly missed. The Side offers its deepest condolences to his wife Carol and his family.

Lawrence's father, Ken Adams, was a dancer with TBMD and Lawrence followed his brothers Andrew and "Duke" into the Side, training under Arnold Woodley in the boys side that Bampton was known for at the time. He first danced with the Traditional Bampton Morris Dancers on Whitsun 1973. For Lawrence, the reception given the side on its 1982 US Northeast tour was one of those formative experiences that meant Morris would be part of his life. In 1989 Lawrence became the side's Bagman, working closely with Arnold to organise and train the team and with the death of Arnold in 1995 he became the Squire.

Lawrence was dancing with us through 2021 when health issues forced him off the field, but he often popped round to practices to make sure the side were in good form. We will all miss his guidance and support, and his sense of humour.

The funeral service for Lawrence will take place on Friday, 15th May, at 14:30 in St Mary's, Bampton and the wake will be at The Talbot Inn following interment. All in the Morris community who knew Lawrence and wish to pay their respects are welcome though by request of Carol Adams, only TBMD kit will be worn.

For further information please contact the Bagman.