A retired civil servant turned Scottish Country dance instructor, Linda Harley personifies the rich cultural tradition of dance in Northern Ireland.

After exploring different dance forms and styles over a lifetime, she discovered – and now shares – her love of Scottish Country dancing with others in and around Belfast, bringing connection and customs to her community.

Born and raised in Northern Ireland, her maiden name – Campbell – traces back to ancestors who settled in County Armagh centuries ago. She currently resides in Lisburn, just south of Belfast, though her travels have taken her as far afield as Luxembourg.

Harley’s love of dance began as a youngster with ballet, and she later explored line dancing, salsa, and tap. After attending Scottish ceilidhs, she was inspired to start Scottish dance in 2007.

“I really enjoyed the fun and the music and joined a beginner’s class when it started near me,” she recalls. “Dancing has always been a very important part of my life. As soon as I entered the room of Scottish Country dancers, I knew this was the kind of dancing I could do for many years.”

“A room full of people all joining with gusto to a live band playing rousing tunes – well, that is something that makes my spirit soar.”

Over time she was inspired to inspire others, and, after qualifying as a Scottish Country dance instructor in 2017, she now teaches weekly classes in Lisburn and serves as chairman of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society (RSCDS) Belfast branch.

Her commitment extends beyond the local community, however; she has served on the RSCDS finance committee and as deputy director at the annual summer school in St Andrews, an important event in the Scottish dance calendar.

Scottish Country dancing attracts a wide range of participants. While older women seeking to stay active make up much of Harley’s classes, she notes that younger members also benefit from discovering its charm. Some have even made the transition from Highland dancing to the lower impact, yet equally engaging Country dances.

The cultural activity is more than just exercise, however.

“Many older people live alone, so being able to come along to a class, catch up with friends, and enjoy some gentle exercise is really important.”

While the RSCDS was founded decades ago in an effort to preserve and promote traditional dances, the organization’s ongoing commitment to creativity keeps the customs fresh.

“Thousands of new dances are devised each year, which is a great way of keeping this older dance form exciting,”

While young people show interest, attracting them remains a challenge. The RSCDS Youth Services committee works hard to innovate, organizing family-friendly camps and global Virtual Festivals. Harley remains persistently committed to spreading the word about the many social and cultural benefits of Scottish Country dance for those of all ages.

“If anyone finds the magic formula for increasing membership, especially for young people, do please let me know!”

The coming months promise to be busy for the troupe, with a St Patrick’s Day ceilidh, and monthly summer dances. A Mayday school will help dancers sharpen their skills, while ceilidh evenings will prepare wedding guests for classics like the Dashing White Sergeant.

Looking further ahead, 2026 marks the 80th anniversary of RSCDS Belfast, and celebrations will feature a weekend school at the Europa Hotel with guest tutor Janet Johnston and music by Ian Muir. A special tea event will invite members, past and present, to reminisce, while a St Andrews Ball will feature Ian Robertson’s renowned tunes.

For Harley and others in RSCDS, Scottish Country dancing is more than just movement – it is a celebration of culture, community, and connection.

“If everyone is leaving the class with a smile on their face, then I am happy.”

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