Swing Dance Classes & Workshops in London
Swing Dance Classes & Workshops in London - learn Lindy Hop, Solo Jazz, 20s Charleston and Balboa.
Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced dancer, our friendly Swing dance classes help you build confidence, develop your technique and enjoy dancing while becoming part of a welcoming community of social dancers.
Award-winning SwingdanceUK has been teaching Swing Dance for over 40 years, offering weekly classes, progressive courses, weekend workshops and intensive beginner sessions across London and Buckinghamshire. No partner is required and absolute beginners are always welcome.
New to Swing Dancing?
✅ No partner required
✅ Absolute beginners welcome
✅ Friendly teachers
✅ Learn at your own pace
🏆 Proudly awarded
*Excellence Award in Swing Dance Education & Cultural Preservation 2026* UK Enterprise Awards 2026
*Swing Dance School of the Year* UK Enterprise Awards 2024
Swing Dance Classes & Workshops in London at a Glance:
Weekly Classes:
Solo Jazz with Anna - Mondays
London - Open Level
Chorus Line Course: Sept 7 & 14
Solo Jazz Course: Oct 12, 19, 26 & Nov 2
20s Charleston Course: Nov 9, 16, 23, 30
Lindy Hop Classes with Simon - Thursdays
London - Beginner & Intermediate
Lindy Hop Course: Sept 10, 17, 24, Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Lindy Hop classes & dancing with Simon - Tuesdays
Buckinghamshire - Beginners & Intermediate
Lindy Hop Course: Sept 8, 15, 22, 29, Oct 6, 13, 20, 27
Workshops:
Sunday 6 September - Learn to Swing Dance in a Day, London - Beginner
Sunday 18 October - Fast Beginner Lindy Hop, London - Beginner to Intermediate Transition
Sunday 15 November - Learn to Swing Dance in a Day, London - Beginner
Not sure which class is right for you?
Complete beginner?
→ Start with Weekly Beginner Lindy Hop Classes or Learn to Swing Dance in a Day Workshop
Want to dance without a partner?
→ Try Weekly Solo Jazz Classes
Already dancing Lindy Hop?
→ Explore Weekly Intermediate Lindy Hop Classes
Check out our Special Events which often start with a fun class where you can learn some new dance moves and invite your friends to join the excitement!
Signup to our free mailing list & get all the latest SwingdanceUK news straight to your inbox!
What people say about our workshops
Solo Jazz Classes London
Solo Jazz (also known as Authentic Jazz) is a vibrant form of jazz dancing performed without a partner. Inspired by the dancers and traditions of the Swing Era, it helps you develop rhythm, coordination, body movement and confidence. Solo Jazz is perfect for dancers who want to improve their musicality, add style to their Lindy Hop or simply enjoy dancing independently.
Solo Jazz in London with Anna 7.15-8.15pm
📍Studio 2, City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, London, EC1V 7DP
Rooted in African American Jazz dance, Solo Jazz is the heartbeat of the Swing era — and it’s seriously fun. Come dance, shine, and sparkle like a diamond!
Why Solo Jazz?
✨ Boost rhythm, musicality and body awareness
✨ Build confidence and express yourself through movement
✨ No partner needed – just bring your energy!
What You’ll Learn:
✨ Classic Jazz steps from the 1920s–40s
✨ Charleston, tap-inspired moves, and chorus line flair
✨ Fun routines plus a taste of improvisation
Open Level - Not aimed at complete beginners. Classes will move at a steady pace and assume familiarity with learning choreography and steps.
Flexi Booking Bonus: If you miss your class one week, you can join our Thursday Lindy Hop class that week instead (no extra cost). Just email in advance to let us know and we'll add you to the list for that week.
Dates:
Chorus Line Course: Mondays 7 & 14 Sept
Discover the glamour, precision and sparkle of classic chorus line dancing! Inspired by the golden age of Jazz and musical theatre, this fun two-week course will explore synchronised movement, stylish Jazz vocabulary and the art of dancing as a group.
✨ Develop timing, coordination, and performance skills
✨ Learn classic chorus line technique and styling
✨ Build confidence while dancing as part of an ensemble
Open Level – some experience with Jazz, Swing, or learning choreography is recommended.
Cost:
Standard £20 +bf
Solo Jazz Course: Mondays 12, 19, 26 Oct & 2nd Nov
Discover the joy, rhythm and creativity of authentic Jazz dance from the Swing era! We'll explore classic Solo Jazz vocabulary, rhythms, and styling, building confidence and musicality through fun routines, drills and improvisation. Expect a mix of Charleston, Jazz steps, and plenty of opportunities to develop your own unique expression.
✨ Learn classic Solo Jazz steps and rhythms
✨ Improve musicality, coordination, and body awareness
✨ Build confidence through movement and self-expression
Open Level – some experience with Jazz, Swing, or learning choreography is recommended.
Cost:
Early Bird £36 +bf (until 14 Sept)
Standard £40 +bf
20s Charleston Course: Mondays 9, 16, 23, 30 Nov
Kick up your heels and dive into the energetic world of 1920s Charleston! We'll explore classic Charleston rhythms, footwork, styling and variations, building your confidence and technique step by step. Expect plenty of fun, upbeat movement and a chance to bring your own personality to this iconic Jazz Age dance.
✨ Learn authentic 20s Charleston basics and variations
✨ Develop rhythm, coordination, and musicality
✨ Build confidence through choreography and improvisation
Open Level – some experience with Jazz, Swing, or learning choreography is recommended.
Cost:
Early Bird £36 +bf (until 2 Nov)
Standard £40 +bf
📍 City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, London, EC1V 7DP
Nearest Underground stations:
Farringdon (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan)
Old Street (Northern)
Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan).
Conveniently located just a short walk from Barbican and Angel stations, with Farringdon, Old Street, Moorgate, King's Cross, Clerkenwell, Islington, Shoreditch, Liverpool Street and the City of London all nearby. With excellent Tube, bus and cycling links, it's easy to reach us from across London.
Lindy Hop Classes London
Lindy Hop is the original Swing Dance style that developed in Harlem, New York during the late 1920s and 1930s. Known for its energy, creativity and connection between partners, it remains one of the world's most popular social dances. Our Lindy Hop classes in London are suitable for complete beginners through to experienced dancers looking to refine their technique, musicality and style.
Lindy Hop Thursdays in London
📍 Studio 1, City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, London, EC1V 7DP
Beginners 7.30-8.30pm
✨An introduction to Lindy Hop 8, 6 count & Charleston
✨Learn the essential basics
✨Fun and friendly
✨No partner or experience needed!
✨Just bring your enthusiasm and we'll teach you the rest!
Intermediate 8.30-9.30pm (You should have attended a minimum of 20 weeks beginners, or equivalent, and be familiar with classic Swing Out and Charleston variations)
✨Build on your foundations, refine your basics
✨Aimed at social dancing - perfect your basics, new variations, stylings, connection & partnering skills, listening to the music and learn what it means to flow
✨For experienced dancers come play, explore & develop with like minded dancers!
✨Progressive classes ensure the best results
Progressive courses are very different to drop-in classes, and you'll get the most out of attending weekly, however, if you have to miss one week don't panic - you'll be fine!
Flexi Booking Bonus: If you miss your class one week, you can join our Monday Solo Jazz class that week instead (no extra cost), subject to being a suitable level. Just email in advance to let us know and we'll add you to the list for that week.
Upcoming Dates:
8-Week Beginner & Intermediate Lindy Hop Course: 10, 17, 24 Sept, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Oct
Start with just 4 weeks – no need to commit to the full course.
Block 1: 10, 17, 24 September & 1 Oct
Block 2: 8, 15, 22, 29 October
4-Week Blocks
Beginner or Intermediate class only:
Early Bird: £36 +bf – book by 28 July
Standard Price: £40 +bf
Beginners and Intermediate: £60 +bf
Drop-in: £12 per class, £18 for both (cash on the day).
Book Sept Thursday Lindy Hop Classes
"I am really enjoying the Swing dance classes.....thanks again for leading the class in such a fun, effective way" Jeremy O
📍 City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, London, EC1V 7DP
Nearest Underground stations:
Farringdon (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan)
Old Street (Northern)
Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan).
Conveniently located just a short walk from Barbican and Angel stations, with Farringdon, Old Street, Moorgate, King's Cross, Clerkenwell, Islington, Shoreditch, Liverpool Street and the City of London all nearby. With excellent Tube, bus and cycling links, it's easy to reach us from across London.
Learn to Swing Dance in a Day!
Learn to Swing Dance in a Day with Simon Selmon in London!
Sunday 6 September 2026 10.30am-1.30pm
📍 Studio 1, City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, London, EC1V 7DP
Unlock the secrets of Swing dancing and immerse yourself in a day filled with fun and learning.
Our Learn to Swing Dance in a Day workshop is the perfect introduction to Lindy Hop, the original Swing dance that first filled dance halls during the 1930s and 1940s. Taught by experienced instructor Simon Selmon, this fun, friendly and relaxed workshop is designed specifically for complete beginners.
Over three enjoyable hours, you'll learn the essential foundations of Lindy Hop, including 6-count and 8-count patterns, classic Lindy Charleston and the skills you need to dance confidently with a partner. Everything is taught step-by-step in a welcoming environment, with plenty of time to practise, ask questions and have fun.
By the end of the workshop, you'll be able to dance a complete Swing song with confidence and you'll be ready to join beginner social dances and continue your Swing dance journey.
Whether you're looking for a new hobby, a way to meet new people, or simply want to experience the joy and energy of Swing dancing, this workshop is the perfect place to start.
WHAT WILL YOU LEARN
✨The foundations of Lindy Hop, this popular 1940s partner dance.
✨Essential 6 and 8 count moves
✨Lindy Charleston
✨Partner connection and musical timing
✨How to dance to classic Swing music
This workshop is for absolute beginners and those who have been dancing 6 months or less.
No experience necessary or partner required.
OUR GUARANTEE
✨By the end of this session, we guarantee you will be able to dance a whole song - and smile at the same time!
🎟️ Advance £30 + bf
On the door: £35
Book Learn to Swing Dance in a Day Workshop
Next dates:
Sun 6 Sept
Sun 15 Nov
"We found it not only really enjoyable but a game changer in terms of a belief in our ability to swing dance....We are finally making the progress that has alluded us for years. So thank you." Philip H
📍 City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, EC1V 7DP
Nearest Underground stations:
Farringdon (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan)
Old Street (Northern)
Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan).
Conveniently located just a short walk from Barbican and Angel stations, with Farringdon, Old Street, Moorgate, King's Cross, Clerkenwell, Islington, Shoreditch, Liverpool Street and the City of London all nearby. With excellent Tube, bus and cycling links, it's easy to reach us from across London.
Fast Beginners Lindy Hop
Fast Beginner Lindy Hop with Simon Selmon in London! – Beginner to Intermediate Transition
Sunday 18 October 2026 10.30am-1.30pm
📍 Studio 1, City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, London, EC1V 7DP
Join us for a focused Lindy Hop workshop designed to help you move confidently beyond beginner level.
This session is ideal for dancers who already know the basics and are ready to develop stronger connection, improved timing and more dynamic movement. Through clear teaching, guided practice and supportive feedback, you’ll start bridging the gap between social beginner dancing and intermediate-level confidence.
A fun, energetic workshop with plenty of time to practise, refine and level up your Lindy Hop.
🎟️ Advance £30 + bf
On the door: £35
Book Fast Beginner Lindy Workshop
"We found it not only really enjoyable but a game changer in terms of a belief in our ability to swing dance....We are finally making the progress that has alluded us for years. So thank you." Philip H
📍 City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, EC1V 7DP
Nearest Underground stations:
Farringdon (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan)
Old Street (Northern)
Barbican (Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan).
Conveniently located just a short walk from Barbican and Angel stations, with Farringdon, Old Street, Moorgate, King's Cross, Clerkenwell, Islington, Shoreditch, Liverpool Street and the City of London all nearby. With excellent Tube, bus and cycling links, it's easy to reach us from across London.
Swing Dance Buckinghamshire
Tuesday Lindy Hop Classes, Buckinghamshire
Learn Lindy Hop & Swing Dance in Buckinghamshire with Simon Selmon! Whether you're a total beginner or looking to level up, come and learn the basics, refine your technique, or simply rediscover the joy of dancing in a warm, welcoming community.
✨Solid foundations
✨New moves every week
✨Fun and friendly
✨Styling, connection, musicality and flow
✨No partner or experience needed!
✨Just bring your enthusiasm and we'll teach you the rest!
Class Schedule
🕢 7:30 pm – Beginner Class
Perfect if you've never danced before (or want to refresh the basics).
No experience or partner needed
The first 30 minutes are exclusively for beginners, before the class combines with some of the more experienced dancers who want to refresh, refine & improve their basics.
🕣 8:30 pm – Tea, Coffee & Social Dancing Time to practice, meet people & enjoy a cuppa
🕣 8:45 pm – Intermediate Class
Take your dancing to the next level with new moves, musicality & styling.
Intermediates are welcome to join the beginners from 8pm.
You should have attended a minimum of 20 weeks beginners, or equivalent experience.
📍 Chalfont St Giles Memorial Hall, School Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4JJ
📍 Chalfont St Giles Memorial Hall, School Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4JJ
Free Parking - Google Map.
Many of our Special Events also start with a fun class where you can learn new dance moves and invite your friends to join the excitement!
Swing dancing is a fun, energetic style of partner dancing that originated in the jazz clubs of the 1920s and 1930s. Our London classes teach the foundations of Lindy Hop, solo jazz & Charleston.
New to Swing Dancing?
Never danced before? You're in the right place. Many of our students start with no previous dance experience. Our beginner classes introduce everything step-by-step, from rhythm and basic movements through to your first Swing Dance combinations.
You don't need a partner to join — many people come along on their own and quickly become part of our friendly dance community.
Why Learn Swing Dance with SwingdanceUK?
With over 40 years of experience teaching Swing Dance, SwingdanceUK is one of the UK's longest-running Swing Dance schools.
Our experienced teachers combine technical knowledge, historical understanding and a passion for social dancing to create classes that are welcoming, structured and fun.
Whether your goal is to dance socially, perform, meet new people or simply enjoy great music, our classes provide a supportive environment to help you progress.
What you'll Learn in our Swing Dance Classes & Workshops
Our Swing Dance classes are designed to help you become a confident, comfortable dancer while developing strong foundations in rhythm, movement and connection.
Depending on your chosen class or workshop, you will learn:
✨The fundamentals of Lindy Hop, including connection, timing and classic Swing patterns
✨Solo Jazz movements inspired by the original jazz dancers of the 1920s and 1930s
✨Charleston steps and styling
✨Musicality and improvisation so you can dance naturally with the music
✨Social dancing skills that help you feel comfortable on any dance floor
Our experienced teachers break down each move clearly, making classes enjoyable and accessible whether you're taking your first steps or developing your existing skills.
Not sure which class is right for you?
Complete beginner?
→ Start with Weekly Beginner Lindy Hop Classes or Learn to Swing Dance in a Day Workshop
Want to dance without a partner?
→ Try Weekly Solo Jazz Classes
Already dancing Lindy Hop?
→ Explore Weekly Intermediate Lindy Hop Classes
FAQs
We've answered some of the most common questions about our Swing Dance classes and workshops below. If you still have questions, please get in touch with us today and our friendly team will be happy to help.
Do I need a partner for Swing Dance classes?
No. Most students come without a partner and dancers rotate partners during classes.
Are Swing Dance classes suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. Our beginner courses are designed for people with no previous dance experience.
What should I wear to my first Swing Dance class?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily - jeans & t-shirt is absolutely fine! Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended.
Comfortable every-day shoes are fine when you are just starting out. Make sure you have something which stays securely on your feet (eg. no flip flops!) and which you can spin easily in (very high heels or trainers with sticky soles are not recommended!).
What is the difference between Lindy Hop and Swing Dance?
Swing Dance is the wider family of dances from the Swing Era. Lindy Hop is one of the most popular Swing Dance styles.
How long does it take to learn Swing Dance?
Everyone progresses differently, but regular classes help you build confidence, musicality and technique over time.
What workshop level is for me?
Beginner - no experience needed whatsoever!
Fast Beginners - no experience needed however the class moves slightly quicker than a beginners class so it's perfect for those who have done a few classes or have other dance experience.
Improvers - good for those who are not absolute beginners but still struggle in intermediate class. This level prepares you to move confidently up to intermediate classes.
Intermediate - you know the basic rhythms including 6 & 8 count & Charleston steps, you may not be perfect but you can confidently do several Swing Outs & Lindy Charleston variations but you still have lots to learn!
Intermediate/Advanced - suitable for more confident intermediate dancers. You are beginning to create your own steps, you understand frame, connection and musicality and you are confident dancing with anyone.
Advanced - you have been dancing for quite some time and you find that its a lot of recap when you go to regular classes.
Advanced + - you want to go back to working on your basics because you know how important the fundamentals are and looking at more advanced concepts such as flow, improvising and creativity.
About your teachers:
Simon is an international award winning teacher who founded SwingdanceUK in 1986 following a trip to NY where he met many original dancers and instantly wanted to share the music & dance that had intoxicated him so much. He believes whilst the dance has changed over the years it is important to educate about its history & social context. To give new dancers the best opportunity to gain the most out of their dancing and to experience the fun & satisfaction of Swing dance. He will take you on a journey back to the heyday of Swing dance. His goal is to share some of that original spirit that he found in the 'old timers', keeping the traditions of the dance alive whilst taking it into the 21 century and he is known for making difficult things easy. Simon has choreographed and performed for stage, film & TV. He has been a UK and US dance champion and a World Lindy Hop Judge. Click here to read more or see Simon in action here
Refund Policy
Bookings cannot be exchanged or money refunded once sold unless the workshop is cancelled by ourselves, in which case a full refund will be processed.
Disclaimer
Please consult your doctor before beginning any dance or exercise program. Dancing is a physical activity, and as such there is the possibility of physical injury. Please be aware of your surroundings and the suitability of the floor. If you engage in this dance or exercise program, you agree that you do so at your own risk, are voluntarily participating in these activities, and assume all risk of injury to yourself, and agree to release and discharge SwingdanceUK from any and all claims or causes of action, known or unknown, arising out of SwingdanceUK's negligence.
Testimonials
"Such a great relaxed vibe and well delivered content that's easy to follow. I'm already looking forward to the next workshop." W Nicolas
"Simon's sessions are always well thought and adapted to the participants' needs and questions. We learn moves (and the story behind them) and how to mix them together to move the dancing to the next level. I would absolutely recommend his workshops!” Paola
"I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for the incredible swing dance classes you've provided at Barbican. They truly stand out as some of the best dancing experiences I've had in London, and I will carry the joy and skills learned with me." Q Sun
“Top class Simon. Lots to think about." R Bull
"Love your lessons." A Pauleau
"Highly recommend SwingdanceUK, great classes with excellent teaching" Caroline T
"Excellent classes" Laura M
"I had a fantastic time yesterday - it was such a joyful experience attending the workshop- it was fab!" Deborah L
"We found it not only really enjoyable but a game changer in terms of a belief in our ability to swing dance....We are finally making the progress that has alluded us for years. So thank you." Philip H
"You created a very friendly, and non-scary atmosphere for us. Your teaching style was relaxed, encouraging and your instructions crystal clear." Elizabeth Davies
"A great day and well taught" Robyn R
"I LOVED last Sunday’s session – well attended but not crowded, very friendly participants, good-humoured witty tuition (with great explanations, vivid analogies, crystal-clear demos and eagle-eyed observation & feedback), lots of very useful basics + ‘extension’ exercises, options and sequences...." Danielle
"I really enjoyed the class and had fun, great stuff.” M Baldry
Membership Site & Online Classes
The must have site for Swing dancers full of classes, routines & articles!
Musicality Workshop
Musicality Workshop with musician Malcolm Earle-Smith & Swing dancer Simon Selmon
Next Date TBC 10.30am-1.30pm
📍 Studio 1, City Sport, 124 Goswell Rd, London, EC1V 7DP
Move with the music — not just to it. Learn to listen, interpret, and dance more musically using Solo Jazz & Lindy Hop.
What You’ll Learn
✨ How Jazz music & dance evolved together
✨ What makes music “Swing” & how it affects your movement
✨ Phrasing, rhythm, energy & musical expression
✨ Call & response, accents, breaks, improvisation
✨ How to connect with the music—and the musicians
Your Teachers
Malcolm Earle-Smith, senior lecturer in Jazz at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, trombonist & singer in many of London's popular Swing dance bands.
Simon Selmon – International Swing dancer & teacher.
Together, they’ll bring expert guidance, live music, and fresh insights.
They have put together a unique workshop that offers invaluable insights and techniques that you won't find in regular classes.
What to Expect
✨ Musicality exercises with Solo Jazz & Lindy Hop
✨ Scatting, rhythm drills & improvisation
✨ Dance to recorded & live music
✨ Group work + individual feedback
To get the most out of this class, we recommend it for intermediate dancers and above (fast beginners with some experience are welcome).
Limited numbers. Pre-bookings only.
Join the Waiting List for Musicality Workshop
"Thanks for organising a great workshop! It was a unique and special opportunity to learn some new insights from a jazz musician and combine this with your interesting teaching on musicality . I really enjoyed the session and feel it has opened up new possibilities to me in the way I dance." Lynne Kirkwood
📍 City Sport, EC1V 7DP
Musicality Workshop Testimonials
“Loved the combination of you and Malcolm. Like you, he is passionate about his topic and that really shone through. I came way from the class with a bigger appreciation of the richness of the music and a greater commitment to listening to the music.” Clare L
"Loved the passion and learning about music and the interaction between music and dance." Anne P
"....The “conversation” with the trombone was exceptionally fun. Loved having an adaptable so highly talented musician- an incredible privilege."
"Great to hear what Malcolm had to say about the various levels within a song which gave me a new way to listen to music and how to interpret it in my dancing." Gari N
Balboa Workshops
Next Steps Balboa: Lollies & Lollie Variations with Janet Davis & Simon Selmon
Next Date tbc 10.30am-1.30pm
📍 266 Long Drive, Ruislip, HA4 0HY (Free street parking!)
This workshop is designed for dancers who have completed beginner-level classes in Balboa or other partner dances but aren’t yet at the intermediate stage. We’ll focus on Lollies and Lollie variations, helping you build confidence, refine your technique and explore new ways to play with the dance. Perfect for taking your fundamentals to the next level in a fun, supportive environment!
What you’ll learn:
✔️ Refined technique – Improve frame, connection & smooth flow
✔️ Expanded vocabulary – Learn stylish social-dance friendly moves & musical variations you’ll enjoy using on the social floor
✔️ Real confidence – Feel ready to lead or follow with ease
✔️ Clear guidance and personal feedback that you can only get with a small group class, to help you really progress
✔️ A fun, welcoming atmosphere with dancers at a similar level
Who It's for
Dancers who have completed beginner-level classes in Balboa or other partner dances but aren’t yet at the intermediate stage
Limited Places
Max 5 couples (1 leader + 1 follower) - Space left for 2 couples (1 lead/1 follow) + 5 leads
Advanced booking required
Ruislip, HA4 0HY
📍 266 Long Drive, Ruislip, HA4 0HY (Free street parking!)