Ballroom Dance

What Is Ballroom Dance?

Ballroom dance refers to a collection of partner dances performed in formal settings, following defined step patterns and rhythms. The main standard ballroom styles include waltz, foxtrot, quickstep, tango and Viennese waltz.

Latin ballroom styles — including cha-cha, samba, rumba, paso doble and jive — are typically grouped alongside standard ballroom in competitive programmes. Together these ten dances form the foundation of international ballroom competitions.

Ballroom dancing has experienced a significant revival in popular culture through televised dance competitions, introducing the style to new generations of dancers.

Learning Ballroom Dance in London

London has a rich ballroom heritage, with dedicated ballrooms, schools and competition circuits active throughout the city. The UK is home to the official bodies governing international ballroom standards, making London a central hub for the art form.

Many community dance halls and established studios across all parts of the city offer regular ballroom classes and social dance evenings.

Ballroom dance classes in London are widely available for beginners through to competitive level. Most schools teach multiple ballroom styles in a structured programme, allowing students to explore different rhythms and tempos.

Group classes provide a social and affordable way to learn, while private lessons are popular among those preparing for competitions or special occasions such as weddings.