London is a city whose creative spirit is very much alive. Its culture and arts scene can be the envy of every other location in the world. The diverse and eclectic neighbourhoods are buzzing with activity and draw creatives from all over the globe. If you too are looking to make a name for yourself in the UK’s capital, you’re in for a treat.
No matter if your style is hip hop, contemporary, folk, ballroom or street dance, you’ll fit right in! You could be a solo artist or a group of performers, on the lookout for a space to rehearse your choreography or teach a dance class – or maybe you want to hire a dance studio for an entirely different purpose, such as a kids party or a unique wedding reception? Whichever reason brings you here, we’ll help you find a venue that’s perfect for the kind of event you have in mind.
So if you’re itching to step onto the dance floor and get your endorphin fix, just browse through our selection of dance studios in London and see if there’s anything that catches your eye! And if you want to find a studio that’s tailored to your specific needs, use Tagvenue’s smart filters and see how easy it is to book your dream space.
How do I choose the perfect dance studio in London?
Are you planning a dance event? Whether you’re teaching a ballroom dance class, rehearsing a play, preparing for a contemporary dance competition or just practising yoga, having a fantastic dance studio is essential. But how can you tell if a dance studio is a good one?
- Floor – the surface should be smooth, slip-resistant and hard-wearing. Double check whether it’s suitable for your needs – it’s best if you schedule a viewing with your venue manager to see the studio in person.
- Sound system – This depends on the type of event you’re planning. Make sure you can pump up the bass! In some cases, only a piano is used for accompaniment. Before you make your final booking, contact the venue manager to make sure the studio has everything you need.
- Mirror, mirror on the wall – Actually, one mirror is not enough! It should cover at least one wall, from floor to ceiling. The more reflective surfaces the practice room has, the better, as mirrors help dancers track their moves.
- Support and balance – If you’re into ballet, you probably know what a barre is. The name refers to a stationary handrail, which is used for support while exercising. Barres can be useful for classical ballet and contemporary dance lessons, as well as workouts.
Other things to keep in mind when booking a dance studio
Now you know what you should pay attention to when looking for good dance studios. But there are still some other things to remember before you decide which one you’re going to book.
- Capacity – When it comes to dance studios, space is extremely important. So before you book your venue, consider how many people are going to use it and how much room you’re going to need to be able to move around comfortably.
- Hire fee – The most popular pricing model for dance studios is the one based on the hourly hire fee. It’s also the most convenient if you’re trying to save some money, as it enables you to hire the studio for the exact amount of time you need (always check the studio’s opening hours). Of course, some dance studios will let you rent the space for an entire day. You may even ask the studio manager for a bespoke quote suitable for your budget and event type, so don’t be afraid to negotiate!
- Location – This also plays an important role in choosing the right space. If you’re hosting a dance class, pick a location that your attendees will be able to find and access easily. Pay attention to public transport: the proximity to bus routes and Tube stations is a huge plus. In some cases, you may even find a studio with a parking lot.
What kind of events and activities can I host in a dance studio?
Dance studios are not only good for dance classes, workshops and rehearsals, but can also host a broad variety of events. Bright, spacious, with excellent acoustics and a proper sound system, a dance studio could be great for a birthday party or a wedding! Isn’t it amazing how such a simple space can be used in so many different ways? Let’s take a look at the types of activities that can be hosted in a dance studio:
- Bride-to-be bash – Event professionals are always coming up with amazing creative ideas for girls nights out, but there’s nothing quite like a hen party dance class! There’s no more comfortable environment than the company of your best friends. You can be as awkward and clumsy as you like and it will still be a lot of fun. Also, think about the possible themes. Dirty Dancing, cabaret, Michael Jackson, 80s disco – you name it! Put on your dancing shoes and make your hen party an unforgettable one.
- Pole dancing – The popularity of this art form is increasing rapidly and new pole dance studios are popping up like mushrooms. The myth that it’s just for young women needs to be busted. For instance, Greta Pontarelli, who is 62, became the World Pole Sports Master Champion at the 2013 IPSF World Pole Sports Competition in London. What’s even more surprising, the male pole dancing scene is also growing! Private pole dancing lessons are the current trend for all ages and genders.
- Bollywood dance classes – This dance style is especially eclectic. Not only does it have an Indian origin, but it’s also influenced by jazz, street and hip-hop, to name just a few dance types. Bollywood dances include a variety of styles like Bhangra, a Punjabi dance traditionally performed to celebrate harvest time, which is why it involves a lot of arm movements. Because of its dynamics, it requires dancers to have a lot of space. Tagvenue is here to help you find the right dance studio for your Bollywood dance classes.
- Kids parties – Hiring a dance studio is a particularly good idea if you’re organising a birthday bash for your little one. Children enjoy movement and they’ll love having a kids party in a dance studio. Dance party themes for kids are often inspired by Disney princesses or other popular movies, like Frozen. Remember to find a dance studio that’s suitable for kids to run around in. Also, make sure you’re allowed to decorate it for the party. A space for some snacks afterwards is a good idea as well. Last but not least, it’s important to have a party host who has a way with children and knows how to teach some fun choreography.
- Rehearsal – You can also use dance studios as a rehearsal room in London for practice purposes. Need a dance rehearsal space? Whether you’re planning a dance recital, theatre performance, polishing, technical or dress rehearsal, Tagvenue has the right space for you.
- Dance exams – For both solo and group dance exams it’s crucial to have a space that features a table for the jury. Remember to provide all the necessary facilities for a specific type of exam.
What are the benefits of dance classes?
We’ve already given you some ideas about how a dance studio can be used. Sounds good, but perhaps you’re still wondering why choose dance classes?
- They’re the ultimate self-esteem booster – There are many situations where you can make use of your dancing skills. You learn how to control your body, it gives you a lot of satisfaction and boosts endorphins even better than chocolate does. So pick a dance class and wow your friends with your new moves at the next party!
- Basically no equipment needed – And you can wear whatever you want! There are no special requirements; you just choose the clothes that are most comfortable for you. All you need is enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
- Health benefits – Dance keeps your muscles and joints in good condition, and it improves flexibility, strength and balance. So you can do something good for your body while also having fun!
- There’s a style for everyone – Are you into Latin dances? Choose bachata, mambo or salsa. European countries also offer a wide variety of styles, from Spanish flamenco to Portuguese fandango. Last but not least, you can use a dance studio for yoga or Pilates classes. Physical movement is not just about the body, it’s also about the soul. Studio hire for your yoga class is fast and stress-free with our easy-to-use platform.
- They’re a fun activity to do together – If you’re looking for something fun that you can do together with a group of friends or your partner, dancing is a great idea! First of all, it’s a reason to get together and spend some quality time with one another, while learning a new skill or simply relaxing. Doing so regularly can bring you closer to each other. And if you want to meet some new people, choosing a dance class is also a step in the right direction!
What are some of the best dance studios in London?
Still wondering where to dance in London? With the city being so culturally diverse, the choice is huge. Whether you’re looking for dance classes near London Bridge or in Islington or somewhere in between, we can recommend something that suits your needs. Take a look at some of the venues we have in our portfolio:
- If you’re looking for a pole dancing studio, then LDA Studio 2 at London Dance Academy might be just what you need. Poles, mirrors, natural light, a bright and airy space – here you have it all, along with some yoga mats, if you need them.
- Looking for something in the Fulham area? Body Society offers a professional gym space which is perfect not just for dance rehearsals, but also for other sports events you may have in mind.
- If you’re on a tight budget and want to hire something cheap, Tagvenue has a bunch of affordable dance studios to choose from. For example, Academy Building offers a variety of spaces with good value for money and is conveniently located in the heart of Camden Town, just a few minutes’ walk from the Tube station.
- Care about a central location? Situated right in the City of London, David Game College provides three studio spaces ideal for dance or yoga classes, as well as rehearsals, casting auditions, parties and other events.
- East London also has something nice to offer. East London Burlesque is a versatile studio with high ceilings, natural light and mirrors, located just a minute from Hackney Wick Overground station. Intimate and quirky, it works perfectly for solo dancers and small groups.
Now you should be ready to choose the perfect London dance studio for any type of event you have in mind. And if you need a little help, Tagvenue will happily match you with a space that ticks all of the boxes. Try our platform and see how easy it is to book through us.
Dance Studios in London FAQ
Where in London can I find the best dance studios?
Wherever in London you are, there’s almost certainly a dance studio nearby. You’ll find a great choice north of the Thames, in popular areas such as Soho, Covent Garden, Clerkenwell, Shoreditch, Islington and Angel. South London also has some nice spaces to offer, especially in the bustling Southwark area.
How much does it cost to hire a dance studio in London?
Hiring a dance studio in London can cost you as little as £10 per hour for a small and simple space and you will find plenty of great options that don’t go over £60 per hour. However, prices can reach up to around £600 per hour for high-end venues that are prepared to host hundreds of people. If you want to hire a dance studio for an entire day, daily hire fees run from around £160 up to £12600 per day. (All data from Tagvenue.)
How much do dance classes cost in London?
On average, taking dance classes in London will cost you around £24 per hour. Of course, prices will vary depending on the type of class you choose, the reputation of the dance studio, the teacher’s experience and qualifications, the number of classes you take and the duration of a single class. Some studios, such as London Dance Academy, also offer attractive monthly memberships and discounts for students.
What equipment can I typically find in a dance studio?
A good floor is an absolute must – dance studios typically feature a sprung floor that has a softer feel and absorbs shocks to reduce potential injuries. Another staple are floor-to-ceiling mirrors that enable you to track your movements. Handrails to support your balance are also a common element in dance studios. You should also expect a sound system. Some studios will simply have a piano for accompaniment, others will feature Bluetooth speakers that enable you to easily connect your device and play your own music.