Dance City

City Academy — Dance Classes In London

Dance City is a busy dance school in central London offering a broad programme of classes across many styles and cultures. It draws in students of all backgrounds, from curious first-timers to those wanting to develop existing skills. With a wide timetable, it suits people who like variety and a lively, cosmopolitan learning environment. Its central location makes it convenient for dancers across the capital.

About City Academy

Students speak highly of teachers who maintain real rigour while keeping classes engaging, and of the sense of being taken somewhere new through rhythm and culture. It suits people who want quality instruction and enjoy the energy of a large, active school.

Classes & Dance Styles

The timetable spans many styles, from street dance to more traditional forms, with teachers who hold a high standard while keeping sessions accessible. For anyone exploring dance classes in London or comparing adult dance classes across the city, the breadth here means there is usually a suitable level and genre to try. Classes cater to different abilities, so beginners and more advanced dancers can each find their place. Expect structured, well-taught sessions with a strong focus on technique and musicality.

What to Expect on Your First Visit

A first class is welcoming and open to newcomers, with no need to arrive with any experience. Wear comfortable clothing and bring footwear appropriate to the style you have booked, plus water to stay hydrated. Simply follow the teacher and give it your best; that is all that is expected.

Location & Contact

The school is centrally located in London and is well connected by the city's extensive public transport links.

• Address: 10 Herbal Hill, London EC1R 5EG
• Phone: +44 20 7042 8833
• Website: https://www.city-academy.com/
• Opening hours:
  • Monday: 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday: 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday: 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Thursday: 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Friday: 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am-2 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am-2 pm

What Dancers Say About City Academy

4.8/5 from 694 Google reviews.

I have been taking a number of dance classes and they are always great, transposing you to a different culture and rhythm. My recent classes, "Street Dance," taught by Pia Rauhalinna, was particularly outstanding. Pia is a fantastic teacher who maintains a sense of rigour whilst encouraging students to innovate – a great combination for teaching anything. Classes are structured but never dull. She would go over the simple steps again and again, to see that the room of people are feeling comfortable. She is great at "reading the room" as the repetition never feels tedious, but needed as a num— Anna Liu

I really enjoyed being part of the 5 day singing intensive and will definitely come back to take another course at city academy. I loved working with our lead teacher Michael Ojo, it was amazing how each one of us students was at a different part of their journey, but still we all had major takeaways and got an equal shot to learn! This course gave me great insight on the anatomy of singing, warming up properly and how to effectively learn and mimic singing styles. After this course I know much more, what I specifically want to work on in the future. All our teachers were also really personabl— Maia Onda

So after having done some acting, I wanted to upskill so booked onto the 5-Day Foundation Acting course. Before I started the course I was worried the course might be too basic but oh how I was wrong!!

This is probably the best course I've ever done, in any field. Honestly, this course was incredible!! Literally 100%!! I cannot stress this enough.

The tuition was so strong including the tutor that stepped in that you developed so quickly and the info felt invaluable. The teachers were so passionate and actually pushed you to understand and develop. I learned things I didn't even know I neede— Leon Allen

Updated review: I did receive an email from a different member of staff confirming that a refund for a cancelled class would be offered and it appears they have also reached out to me via phone although I was not able to answer. Overall, I have been happy with the actual instruction at the academy, but the experience of class cancellation + having to argue for a due refund wasn't pleasant and I feel the process should have been less stressful although I am grateful that it's been dealt with relatively promptly. I would say the classes are very enjoyable, but it would be better if students w— Marybeth Martin

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is it to learn salsa?

The basic salsa step is easy to learn and most people manage it in their first session or two. The finer timing and spins develop with practice over the following weeks.

Can a non-dancer learn salsa?

Yes, salsa is very beginner-friendly and the steps start from scratch. No previous dancing is needed to join a beginners' class.

Is it possible to learn ballet as an adult?

Yes, plenty of adults take up ballet for enjoyment, strength and poise. Adult beginner classes are designed for people with no prior training.

What age is too late to start ballet?

For recreational ballet, no age is too late, and adults begin at every stage of life. The rewards come regardless of when you start.

What are 5 basic steps in line dancing?

Common steps include the grapevine, kick-ball-change, shuffle, pivot turn and coaster step. They form the backbone of most beginner routines.

What is the easiest line dance to learn for beginners?

Routines based on the grapevine and simple walks are usually the easiest to learn first. Ask staff for their most beginner-friendly option when you book.

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