Dance in the footsteps of some of the biggest names in showbiz with monthly tea dances at the Winter Gardens Pavilion in Weston-super-Mare. This iconic seafront venue was where episodes of the BBC’s Come Dancing were filmed in the late 1950s, bringing the glamour of competitive ballroom dancing to Weston-super-Mare.
Standing proudly on the seafront since 1927, the Winter Gardens has been at the heart of Weston’s social scene for generations. Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood and Cilla Black are just some of the legendary names to have performed beneath its lights.
A classic venue
Step inside and you’ll discover the spectacular Grand Ballroom.
Whether you’re an experienced ballroom dancer, a complete beginner or simply looking for a memorable afternoon out in Weston-super-Mare, the Winter Gardens Tea Dances and Ballroom Events offer a warm welcome and the opportunity to dance the afternoon away.
Hosted by popular local dance organiser Mark Helmore, these much-loved social dances have become a highlight of Weston’s events calendar, bringing together locals and visitors for afternoons filled with ballroom, Latin, sequence dancing and classic social dance favourites.
A Ballroom With a Story to Tell
Long before the music started playing, the Winter Gardens was already part of an ambitious vision to make Weston-super-Mare one of the country’s great seaside destinations.
The idea for a grand ballroom and entertainment pavilion was first discussed in 1914, when plans were drawn up for a spectacular indoor venue. Delayed by the First World War, the dream finally became reality in 1927 when the Winter Gardens officially opened its doors.
The pavilion quickly became famous for its elegant architecture and dazzling ballroom lighting system – so impressive at the time it earned the nickname “The House of a Thousand Lights.”
Almost a century later, the magic is still very much alive.
Tea Dances & Ballroom Events in Weston-super-Mare
Throughout the year, the Winter Gardens hosts a popular programme of Sunday Tea Dances, alongside glamorous Summer and Winter Balls and a festive Christmas Tea Dance.
Expect a friendly atmosphere, superb music, a fully licensed bar and one of the most unique dance settings in Somerset.
2026 Tea Dance Dates
2pm – 4.30pm
- Sunday 8 February
- Sunday 22 March
- Sunday 26 April
- Sunday 24 May
- Sunday 19 July
- Sunday 9 August
- Sunday 6 September
- Sunday 11 October
Special Ballroom Events 2026
Summer Ball
Saturday 13 June | 7.30pm – 10.30pm
Winter Ball
Saturday 14 November | 7.30pm – 10.30pm
Christmas Tea Dance
Sunday 27 December | 2pm – 5pm
Tickets for Sunday socials are £8 per person and are available online or on the door.