The London Academy of Dance is a dance school in the City of London, offering group and private tuition across a range of styles. It teaches everyone from complete novices to long-standing students, including couples preparing a memorable first dance for their wedding. The studio facilities are well regarded, but reviewers reserve their warmest words for the teachers. It suits people who want quality instruction in a central, accessible location.
The academy is praised for friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely inspiring teachers who make the experience enjoyable at every level. Students describe starting as complete novices and staying for years, which speaks to the encouraging atmosphere. It appeals to those who value good teaching above all in a professional studio setting.
Tuition covers a spread of styles through both group classes and private lessons, from first steps to more advanced work. Among the dance classes in London on offer, the academy balances technique with enjoyment so that beginners feel supported as they progress. It sits within the wider dance lessons London scene, and its private lessons are popular with couples wanting something special for a first dance. A typical class introduces the feel, timing and steps of a dance before you try them out.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suited to smooth movement, and expect clear direction on where to go once you arrive. Beginners are welcomed warmly, and no experience is assumed in introductory classes. If you are booking private lessons for an occasion, it helps to explain your goals in advance.
The academy is based in the City of London, exceptionally well served by the capital's transport network. Its central location makes it easy to reach for classes after work or at the weekend.
My new husband and I are not dancers by any means but wanted to do something other than the standard swaying from side to side for our first dance as a married couple, so signed up for some classes here. Our teacher was Sophie and she was an absolute pleasure to learn from, she was so friendly and we enjoyed our laughter-filled lessons with her greatly. We got so many compliments from guests and moved multiple people to tears, but more importantly we had such a fun time learning the dance. Sophie created a gorgeous routine to a non-typical first dance song and was always very respectful of our— Marjanne Brooks
I’m so surprised at some of the negative reviews! My experience was incredible. There are signs all over the walls indicating where to go to find your classroom so it isn’t difficult at all. The reception staff were simple but not disrespectful at all. And the instructor was incredible. We stayed for two classes and I will definitely be returning with my friends again. Lorena instructed my class today and from the basics of leading to the steps and applied to a routine she really is thorough. Even the other attendees were lovely. Definitely try it out!— Saoudyy
The studio facilities are superb, but it is the teachers that really make this dance school. They are, without exception, friendly, encouraging, knowledgeable, talented and inspiring.
I have been taking lessons here since 2008: I started as a complete novice with a weekly group class and last week was able to take the IDTA Gold Bar 2 examination. I never dreamed that I would be able to dance at this level, but Greg and his team have made it possible! I really cannot recommend this dance school highly enough.— Nina “The Numbers” Adams
The London Academy of Dance are great! We went to them for our first dance for our Wedding. They were really accommodating and flexible, helping us get our dance lessons in a short amount of time.
Lorena is lovely and incredibly helpful and Stefan was an absolutely great teacher. We would highly recommend them regardless of dance experience and are very happy with how our routine has come out and what we’ve been able to achieve with them.— Rich Red
Salsa basics are quite achievable, and beginners are usually dancing simple patterns before long. Smooth timing and partner work develop with regular practice.
Yes, introductory classes are designed for people with no experience. You start with the fundamentals and build from there.
Yes, adults regularly take up ballet for fitness, posture and enjoyment. Check with the academy which styles feature in its current timetable.
There is no upper age limit for enjoying ballet recreationally. Adults of any age can benefit from it.
Line dancing commonly uses the grapevine, step-touch, kick-ball-change, pivot turn and shuffle. These simple moves recur across most beginner routines.
Short four-wall dances with repeating steps are the easiest to learn first. Ask the academy which introductory routines it teaches if line dancing appeals.