The Journal

Primal and universal, dance is one of the most potent and enduring forms of creative expression. So London - one of the world’s most creative, innovative cities - has always moved in step with every major musical and social shift, its rich cultural tapestry continuously reflected on dance floors across the capital. Going back to the courtly minuets of the Georgian era, the jazz-fuelled swing halls of the 1930s, right through to the rebel energy of punk, rave and grime, London loves to dance. Embracing all styles - traditional to contemporary, and everything in between - the city is a cultural tour de force and a perfect canvas, with its ballrooms, basements, theatres and street corners playing host to myriad forms of body movement (choreographed and spontaneous). London remains a global dance capital, processing and making sense of influences from around the world and reflecting the city’s international spirit. Whatever day of the week, you can find somewhere to dance in London. Here are our top recommendations, by genre.