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The 5 best dance instructors in London who’ll keep you on your toes

Ever tried learning the cha-cha from a YouTube tutorial? A little word of advice: don’t.

I’ve tried it once in my flat, desperately trying to mimic the moves of the instructor, who seemed to be part professional dancer, part contortionist, and all inhumanly flexible. 

With my dog as my only witness, I managed to trip over my own feet, knock over a lamp, and perform what I can only describe as a jazz-handed flail.

If this sounds like you when you attempt to dance, you might also be in the market for a dance instructor. So, after numerous bruised toes (and egos), I did research and attended a few too many dance classes. 

But you know what? It was worth it! Because after all that work and humiliation, I can happily say I’ve found the best dance instructors in London!

How much does it cost to hire a dance instructor in London? 

Expect to spend at least  £15 per hour for basic dance classes in London. This price is just an estimate and will vary depending on the dance instructor’s experience, the type of dance class, and more.

What I looked for

  • Reputation: I scoured online reviews and spoke with several people who’d attended the shortlisted instructors’s classes. If an instructor had people raving about how they transformed their two-left feet into graceful swans, I figured they earned a spot on my list.
  • Credentials and experience: Anyone can upload a dance video onto the Internet. So, I wanted instructors who had legit credentials. Whether they’ve had training from prestigious dance schools, experience in professional performances, or years of teaching, I made sure they had a verifiable track record.
  • Class style and atmosphere: Not all dance classes are created equal. Some have the strict discipline of a military boot camp, while others feel like parties. I looked for class environments where I could have a laugh at myself but still get honest feedback to improve.
  • Schedule flexibility: I looked for instructors who were reasonably accessible and had flexible schedules that could accommodate busy lifestyles. After all, there’s no point in signing up for dance classes if you can never make it there!

1. Tango Movement

tango-movement-logo

Address: Marshall St, London W1F 7EL, United Kingdom

Contact details: +442084552975

Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 9:30 PM 

Website: Tango Movement

Honestly, Tango Movement is a top choice for anyone looking to learn the tango! David and Kim Benitez, the dynamic duo behind Tango Movement, have a passion for tango that is contagious and are absolute class.

Their ability to break down intricate steps into manageable pieces is what makes their tango class the best in London. I attended their beginner class and though I still stepped on a few toes, I agree that they made picking things up easy. 

Classes feel warm and inclusive too, with a lot of the people I talked to saying they built lasting friendships in them. However, a few shared that the transition from beginner to intermediate classes could be smoother.

Several regular attendees also noted that while the workshops were excellent, they sometimes felt a bit overwhelmed.

As a final note, I hear their private classes are amazing. A few couples raved about how David and Kim helped choreograph their wedding dance. Others liked the individual attention matched to their learning pace.

Pros

  • Instructors truly passionate about tango
  • Great at simplifying instructions
  • Excellent private classes
  • Caters to all levels

Cons

  • Difficulty transition in classes can be challenging
  • Some workshops are overwhelming

Customer reviews

Best tango classes in London!

“Best tango classes in London! David and Kim’s teaching style is effective and fun, and watching them dance is a whole new inspirational experience. The two hours of a class always fly by so quickly! I am dancing for over a year now, and feel like I belong to a family.”

Welcoming, supportive and fun sessions

“I’ve absolutely loved learning with Kim and David every Saturday afternoon – it’s the highlight of my week. They create welcoming, supportive and fun sessions and I can’t believe how quickly the movement has sunk into my body. They take the time to teach you the detail which only develops and flourishes the dance even more. I wish I found them both sooner! And watching Kim and David dance is utterly mesmerising and inspiring. I’m hooked, and can’t wait to grow and learn from them both more and more.”

2. Dancebuzz

dancebuzz-logo

Address: 15 Marshall St, London W1F 7EL, United Kingdom

Contact details: +442030868133

Operating hours:  

  • Monday to Thursday – 9:30 AM to 9 PM
  • Friday – 10:30 AM to 7 PM
  • Saturday – 10:30 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM to 5:15 PM

Website: Dancebuzz

If you can commit to a structured schedule, Dancebuzz may be an excellent choice. 

They offer a variety of dance classes, ranging from ballroom and Latin to Bollywood and Bhangra. Their specialised classes, like wedding dance prep and private sessions, offer something for everyone regardless of experience level. 

Many I spoke with liked how the progressive course format allows them to see real progress week after week. Some mentioned that it can be difficult to catch up in this format if you miss a class, though. 

Despite this, from my experience attending one of their dance socials, it wasn’t too hard to pick things up at all! Their dance instructors are easy to follow, and they dance at a slower pace too, so you don’t miss a single step. 

Pros

  • Varied classes
  • Structured learning
  • Experienced instructor 
  • Fun and easy-to-follow classes

Cons

  • Difficult to catch up if you miss class

Customer reviews

The structure of the class was really easy to follow

“Mohammed was an excellent teacher for the Salsa taster!  I’ve been to a few intro salsa sessions over the years and this was by far the best one.  The structure of the class was really easy to follow and build on, plus he made the atmosphere super fun and relaxed. Hoping to do the full beginner course in the future.”

All the instructors are fantastic, encouraging and make the lessons so much fun

“Started dancing with Dance Buzz a couple of years ago; attending ballroom/Latin America dance classes, Salsa and swing dance.  I thoroughly enjoy them all.  All the instructors are fantastic, encouraging and make the lessons so much fun.  I would highly recommend any budding dancers to give Dance Buzz a go – don’t think you will regret it.  Happy dancing!”

3. City Academy

city-academy-logo

Address: 10 Herbal Hill, London EC1R 5EG, United Kingdom

Contact details: +442070428833

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 10 PM 
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM 

Website: City Academy 

City Academy has everything from salsa to ballroom. A few particularly enjoyed the “Absolute Beginners Dance” course, citing it as a great entry point into dance. 

The instructors were very patient and seemed to break down the steps nicely during my session. I didn’t take the 5-day dance foundation course, unfortunately, but it’s supposedly great at giving dancers confidence in their abilities. 

Several enjoyed the flexibility the academy offers. Having both weekend and weekday evening options was perfect for many, and the online option is a lifesaver.

And from what I heard, City Academy’s “Diva Dance Classes” were a hit among younger dancers. Many like the high energy and empowering vibes of these sessions. It’s not just about learning steps, but about feeling fabulous while you do it. 

However, others felt that the classes could get overcrowded, especially lamenco and tap dance. And a few mentioned that it’s hard to get quick responses via email or phone. 

Once you’re in a class, it’s fine, but getting enrolled and resolving scheduling conflicts can be a headache, as a result.

Pros

  • Salsa, ballroom, beginners, etc.
  • Patient and helpful instructors
  • Flexible schedule 
  • Fun & empowering classes

Cons

  • Popular classes can get overcrowded
  • Enrolling can be a difficult

Customer reviews

Breaking down each move, including warm-ups, is incredibly helpful for us beginners

“I enjoyed City Academy’s dance classes. My Absolutely Beginner class just finished today.I have been thoroughly enjoying the experience. I especially would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to Manuela, the tutor for the Absolutely Beginner’s class. Her meticulous approach to breaking down each move, including warm-ups, is incredibly helpful for us beginners. Her sense of humour, creative way to make us imagine the moves and encouraging words not only make the lessons enjoyable but also foster noticeable progress in our learning. Thus I just enrolled another lesson taught by Manuela. I am going to make it as a lifetime hobby. Thank you, City Academy. Thank you, Manuela”

Beautiful introduction to ballet

“Panagiotis Pavlopoulos is a fantastic tutor, beautiful lines, graceful moves, very competent, caring and thoughtful. The daily course was very well structured from covering the ballet basics to rehearsing the Kingdom of Shades piece from La Bayadere towards the end of the day – overall a very joyful experience from someone absolutely new to ballet (coming from the swimming world). Such a beautiful introduction to ballet, that I will be booking future courses at the City Academy.”

4. First Dance London 

first-dance-london-logo

Address: 13 Blandford St, London W1U 3DF, United Kingdom

Contact details: +447780250347

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 10 PM 
  • Saturday & Sunday – 8 AM to 8 PM 

Website: First Dance London 

First Dance London is for couples needing a little extra help not stepping on each other’s toes during their wedding dance. 

From speaking briefly with Bogdan and Anna (the dance instructors), I learned they have over 20 years of experience. They definitely know what they’re doing when it comes to dance choreography. 

BTW, they do have a free 30-minute trial lesson, which I got to try. I saw exactly what couples I talked to said, which is that the duo are very patient and encouraging in their classes. 

The first few classes start off with the basics, but after class three, they pick up the pace. They also provide a video recording of their steps as an invaluable resource, allowing clients to review and practice at home. 

The only downside is that their schedule is quite packed, so getting a time slot that works may take a while.

Pros

  • 20+ years of experience
  • Free 30-min class trial
  • Video recordings of class
  • Tailored wedding dance choreography

Cons

  • Class schedules are packed

Customer reviews

Anna is so patient, sweet and professional

“BOOK HER! It is so worth it! We started with one class and then immediately decided to switch to their 5 class package and it turned out so worth it! We managed to have a choreographed first dance and practiced is very well within these 5-6 hours of teaching. Anna is so patient, sweet and professional! The dips and lifts she taught us was simply stunning! See our photos. We are very very happy that we decided to go with her although it was pretty last minute.”

She provided us with great choreography for our first dance

” The best of the best! Anna was absolutely wonderful from the moment we met her, we knew we were in safe hands. Every lesson was so enjoyable, as well as very relaxed – there wasn’t any pressure. We took it step by step. She provided us with great choreography for our first dance and I can tell you for sure by the reaction of our guests, everyone was impressed! Highly, highly recommend her ❤️ Thank you again Anna”

5. Adore Dance London

adore-dance-london-logo

Address:  Unit 127, Crown Wharf, Omega Works, Roach Rd, Fish Island, London E3 2GY, United Kingdom

Contact details: +442080504758

Operating hours: 

  • Monday – 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM, 4 PM to 10 PM 
  • Tuesday – 4 PM to 10 PM 
  • Wednesday – 8 AM to 9:30 AM, 4 PM to 10 PM 
  • Thursday – 1 PM to 2 PM, 4 PM to 10 PM 
  • Friday – 7:45 AM to 8 PM 
  • Saturday – 8 AM to 4 PM 

Website: Adore Dance London

I recently observed various classes with AdoreDance and spoke to several students thanks to their flexible weekly membership options.

Many praised the adult ballet classes for their focus on technique and grace. They told me the instructors are incredibly patient and provide personalised feedback, although the class could be a bit slow for those with prior experience.

What I actually tried were their adult jazz classes, which were reputed to be vibrant and energetic. Rumour was right – and I loved how the instructors made each session feel like a performance. 

In their other classes like tap, salsa, and musical theatre dance (to name a few), several told me their instructors encourage expressions of creativity and emotion. They make the classes fun and engaging, perfect for a mid-week pick-me-up.

And they have classes for kids too, from peewee ballet to junior and teen competition dance squads! A couple of parents I spoke to liked the variety of styles and said their children looked forward to class every week, but the class sizes can be a little large. 

Pros

  • Patient instructors and personalised feedback
  • Flexible weekly membership 
  • Encourage creativity and expression
  • Kids classes available

Cons

  • Ballet classes are slow for experienced dancers
  • Large class sizes for kids

Customer reviews

The level of attention to detail and personal growth is fantastic

“Best dance classes in East London! Instructor Connor is an absolute gem. The classes are not only fun but also incredibly nurturing and inspiring. The level of attention to detail and personal growth is fantastic. I’ve seen such progress in my daughter’s technique and confidence. The atmosphere is always welcoming, there is a real sense of community. I highly recommend this dance school to anyone looking to learn and grow as a dancer.”

By far the most fun and inclusive dance school I have been to in London

“After trying a few other options for adult dance classes, Adore Dance is by far the most fun and inclusive dance school I have been to in London. I’ve been attending Jazz for a year now and I absolutely love it! I hadn’t danced since I was younger and so I felt very nervous about returning but everyone in the class is super welcoming and Connor’s energy is infectious. The class is moderated to the level at which you are at so all can take part and it’s the perfect level of challenging. Would highly recommend!”

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