Our favourite places to dance in London

Moving your body is a great way to keep both your body and mind healthy. One study from 2018 found that there is “overwhelming evidence that lifelong exercise is associated with a longer health span,” in addition to a number of other incredible benefits (1). Since dance is a great and fun way to get exercise, we've rounded up our favourite places to take dance classes in London for you!

City academy 

With over 40 locations in London alone, you know this prolific dance studio is going to be amazing. They have hundreds of classes each week and their classes range from beginner level to a professional level. So, head to their website, pick your skill level, and pick a class from their impressive roster! Whether you want to learn belly dancing, burlesque dancing, or take a fitness dance class, they’ve definitely got you covered. 

The factory

This small studio in Holloway has a huge range of classes from aerial to ballet fusion, they’ll teach you everything you need to know to get fit with dance. Their ballet workshops have you start at the barre and move to unsupported routines in the middle of the room. Plus, if you’re not in the mood to dance, they have yoga, HIIT, and pilates classes to help you stay fit without having to get your jive on too.  

Gymbox

Don’t be put off by the mention of a gym, this London staple has 8 different kinds of dance classes that you can take. From their dancehall classes in Farringdon and Stratford, to the Shway class that channels the underground club scene of the 70’s, they’re sure to have a fun dance class that gets you itching to move. 

Pineapple Dance Studios 

Ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, you name it, this studio has it. Open since the 80s, this iconic London studio is exceptionally well known, and for good reason. With a large swathe of classes on a drop-in basis, you can try as many different styles of dance as you’d like! Don’t be intimidated by it’s celebrity status though as their classes are billed for moderate beginners. Even if you’re just starting out and have no idea what you’re doing, just ask questions as these instructors are friendly and happy to help you learn. 

Swing Patrol

Ever fantasize about being in a swing club in the 1950s? Swing Patrol helps to make that fantasy come true. With over 30 classes a week in London and Brighton, this swing studio is sure to get you doing the Lindy Hop in no time. If you’ve never done this type of dance before, don’t worry, they have classes and workshops to help you prepare for their socials and their annual festivals.