An ambitious endurance challenge blending tradition, sport and community spirit is set to take place along the Thames Path this May, as one performer attempts to morris dance 200 miles in just seven days.
Duncan will begin his journey on Sunday 10 May 2026, travelling from London to Abingdon and back, with the aim of setting a Guinness World Records title for the longest distance morris dance completed by an individual. The challenge will conclude on Saturday 16 May with a finale performance in London.
Described as part endurance feat and part cultural celebration, “200 Miles of Morris” will see Duncan dance continuously along one of England’s most scenic routes, passing through locations including Taplow, Reading, Windsor and Kingston upon Thames.
To qualify for the record, he must maintain the defining elements of morris dancing throughout the full distance, including its rhythmic footwork, bells and traditional props.
Morris dancing, a centuries-old English folk tradition, is known for its communal energy and distinctive style. This challenge seeks not only to test physical limits but also to highlight the cultural significance of the art form by bringing it directly to communities along the route.
Support from local performers has played a key role in shaping the event. Morris sides from towns and villages across the Thames Valley are set to join Duncan each evening, creating a series of free public performances that transform the challenge into a travelling celebration of folk culture.
“It’s going to be tough, but I’ve got a great team behind me. I’m so proud of the way the morris dancing community has come together to create this great event.”
Duncan, 200 Miles of Morris
The initiative also serves as a major fundraising effort, supporting six charities across the region: The Rowan Trust, Maidenhead Alzheimer’s Dementia Support, The Brain Tumour Charity, Thames Valley Adventure Playground, The Sherwood Foundation and The Listening Post.
“We’re supporting some great charities from across the Thames Valley. I’m so pleased we can support so many local charities that are important to local morris sides.”
Duncan, 200 Miles of Morris
Evening performances will take place throughout the week, including a homecoming in Abingdon on 12 May, a riverside event in Kingston upon Thames on 15 May, and a final performance at Tate Modern on 16 May, where the record attempt will be officially confirmed.
Full schedule of evening performances:
- Sunday 10 May, 7.00pm — Hall & Woodhouse, Taplow
- Monday 11 May, 7.30pm — The Three Guineas, Reading
- Tuesday 12 May, 5.00pm — Abingdon Market Place, Abingdon
- Thursday 14 May, 7.30pm — Windsor and Eton Bridge, Windsor
- Friday 15 May, 7.00pm — Eagle Brewery Wharf, Kingston upon Thames
- Saturday 16 May, 3.00pm — Tate Modern, Bankside, London
