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The 5 Best Dance Classes in Edinburgh That Will Help You Get Your Groove On 

Instructor Qualifications and Experience: We evaluated the credentials and teaching backgrounds of the instructors at each studio. Qualified teachers with industry experience and recognised safety certifications ensure high-quality instruction in a supportive setting.

Variety and Level Progression: We looked for studios that offer well-structured pathways for both complete beginners and advanced dancers. Having options across multiple dance styles allows students to grow and switch disciplines as their skills develop.

Facility Standards and Atmosphere: We assessed the quality of the studio environments, including flooring, lighting, and sound equipment. Clean, welcoming facilities with proper safety measures create a comfortable space for learning.

Community Engagement and Socials: We checked whether studios offer opportunities outside regular lessons, such as social dance nights or performance showcases. These extra events help dancers build confidence and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Whether you want to try a new hobby or get active, picking up a fresh skill in the city is always exciting. 

If you’ve already tried a local pottery class or spent weekends doing laps in local swimming pools, moving your body on the dance floor might be your next great adventure. 

Finding the best dance classes in Edinburgh comes down to matching your personal goals with the right studio vibe, whether you’re looking for structured ballet exams, energetic social Latin beats, or casual drop-in sessions for fitness. 

I rounded up top studios around town to help you start stepping with confidence.

How much do dance classes cost in Edinburgh?

Standard group dance classes in Edinburgh cost between £5.50 and £12.50 per hour, with prices varying based on studio facilities, age group, and booking terms.

Class TypeAverage Cost
Drop-In / Single Class£8.50 – £12.50 per hour
Premium Drop-In (Live Music)Up to £14.50 per class
Term / Block Booking£7.50 – £10.00 per class
Recreation / Fitness HubsFrom £5.50 per session
Private Lessons£13.00 – £35.00 (Independent) / £45.00 – £70.00 (Specialized)
University Clubs£3.00 – £5.00 per session

1. Bailarte Dance Academy

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Website: bailarte.co.uk

Address: The Crags Center, 10 Bowmont Pl

Contact: +44 7900 752529

Hours: Monday 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM; Thursday 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Stepping into a studio without a partner or prior background can feel intimidating, but Bailarte Dance Academy turns that entire fear upside down. 

Specialising in Salsa and Bachata, their step-by-step beginner courses focus on intentional progression rather than forcing you to memorise routine patterns.

I dropped into one of their sessions recently, and the welcoming community vibe was immediately obvious as instructors gave personalised feedback to every student. 

By keeping class sizes small and incorporating regular partner rotation, they prepare you for actual social dancing while building real confidence on the floor. 

You can even check out their active social life on Instagram to see their monthly events in action.

That said, the schedule remains focused strictly on Salsa and Bachata. Dancers looking for ballet, contemporary, or hip hop will need to find another school. 

Pros

  • Very beginner-friendly with no partner required
  • Clear progression from beginner to advanced levels
  • Small class sizes for personalised instructor feedback
  • Regular social events to build confidence on the floor
  • Focuses on core rhythm, musicality, and partner connection

Cons

  • Focuses exclusively on Latin partner dance styles

Has been an absolute joy

Learning how to dance salsa with Gabriel and Neiva has been an absolute joy. They are truly fantastic instructors! They don’t just show you the steps; they explain the mechanics behind the movements and teach you how to communicate seamlessly with your partner. On top of the brilliant instruction, the atmosphere they create is wonderful. In Spanish, we say “hay un buen rollo”—the classes have a great buzz and an amazing community vibe. I can’t recommend them enough!

Bernar Morote | Google Review 

Really see your progress with every class

I’m a student at Bailarte Dance Academy and I’m extremely happy with the classes. The salsa and bachata lessons are fun, well-structured, and full of great energy. The teachers make you feel welcome from the first day, no matter your level, and you can really see your progress with every class. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to learn, improve, and enjoy dancing!

Iván Correa | Google Review  

2. Dance Base

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Website: https://www.dancebase.co.uk/

Address: 14-16 Grassmarket

Contact: 0131 225 5525

Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday hours vary depending on activity

Located in the heart of Grassmarket, Dance Base is Scotland’s national centre for dance with an astonishing scope of opportunities across four professional studios. 

And with over 70 weekly classes, this venue caters to recreational dancers, inclusive community programs, and seasoned performers. 

They provide extensive support for professional dance and movement artists, including artist residencies, studio access, workshops, funding opportunities, and more. 

A friend of mine who attends their adult contemporary session mentioned how impressive the purpose-built Grassmarket facilities are for staying inspired. Their broad commitment to accessibility makes every visit rewarding. 

Though absolute beginners joining a Ballet Basics class mid-term may find the swift tempo challenging without prior foundational step breakdowns. Still, it remains a vibrant space for anyone wanting to move.

Pros

  • Broad spectrum of over 70 weekly classes
  • Highly inclusive community and wellness programs
  • Professional studio spaces in a central location
  • Strong support and opportunities for artistic growth

Cons

  • Mid-term entry into beginner classes can feel fast-paced

Offers diverse dance classes, excellent dance teachers, and great studios 

Dance Base offers diverse dance classes, excellent dance teachers, and great studios in a central location. You can also get a student discount if you book a class for the whole term. They also offer drop-in classes if you don’t want to overcommit.

Staff at the desk are all super polite and kind – they even let me stretch outside the studio at no extra charge.

Thea | Google Review 

My experience there is 100% positive!

I tried 5 different dances at dansebase and enjoyed all of them. The teachers are friendly and they know how to share their passion. You come here for fun, to enjoy yourself, to relax and make friends, not for competition. The variety of dances taught at dance base is really an asset, as well as the possibility to book drop-in classes. My experience there is 100% positive!

Mathilde Lotteau | Google Review  

3. DN Dance

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Website: https://www.dndance.co.uk/

Address: 9b South Gyle Crescent

Contact: 0131 443 0753

Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Finding a single studio that seamlessly accommodates early-years movers, competitive teens, and adult hobbyists can be tough, but DN Dance delivers just that. 

They offer everything from traditional syllabus ballet and tap to modern commercial jazz and acro across Edinburgh.

Their qualified teaching team holds PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) safeguarding credentials and emergency first-aid training, creating a secure environment where dancers of all ages build skill. 

Prospective students can even book initial consultations to identify the best level for their goals. 

However, specialised styles like Acro require enrolling in a mandatory supplementary limbering class, which adds extra weekly commitment to your schedule.

Pros

  • Extensive choice of traditional and modern dance styles
  • Comprehensive classes for all age groups and skill levels
  • Qualified staff trained in safeguarding and safety
  • Free consultations available for proper class placement

Cons

  • Certain specialised styles require extra mandatory classes

Range of classes and opportunities to participate 

My daughter has been attending DN Dance for several years and has fun every week. We are impressed both with the high quality of teaching and the friendly atmosphere of the dance school as a whole. There are a range of classes and opportunities to participate in exams and performances. It’s a lovely place to be, and we have seen a great improvement in our daughters dancing. Gorgeous new studio at the Gyle with light and open rooms and wonderful welcoming teachers!

Jayne | Google Review 

Makes her classes exciting, challenging (which I love)

Just wanted to share my experience at DN Dance. I’ve been dancing with Nicky for many years and more recently joined in her adult intermediate ballet class. Nicky’s enthusiasm and passion for ballet shines through and she makes her classes exciting, challenging (which I love) and so much fun. Thanks for being brilliant Nicky, you always welcome me with open arms and I love your classes so much 🩷🩰🩷

Diane Hyslop | Google Review 

4. Simon Says Dance

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Website: https://www.simonsaysdance.com/

Address: SSDHQ, 32 Inglis Green Rd

Contact: 07769 224 914

Hours: Tuesday 4–8:30 PM, Wednesday 9:30–11:15 AM 4–8:30 PM, Thursday 4–8:30 PM, Friday 9:30 AM–6:15 PM, Saturday 9 AM–12:40 PM, Monday 9:30–11:15 AM 4–8:30 PM

Designed to inspire the next generation of performers, Simon Says Dance specialises in youth dance education across commercial street, ballet, house, and musical theatre. 

Their custom facility features six fully equipped studios with sprung performance flooring, studio mirrors, integrated sound systems, and cosy waiting areas.

The qualified instructors here focus heavily on building self-esteem in an encouraging setting. Young dancers gain confidence by taking part in regular internal showcases, holiday dance camps, and fully staged productions in local venues. 

But because their programs centre heavily on child and youth development, adults looking for recreational dance fitness will find very few suitable options here.

Pros

  • Custom-built facilities with six dedicated dance studios
  • Excellent performance opportunities and staged productions
  • Wide range of youth styles including street and house
  • Experienced teaching staff with safety and first-aid training

Cons

  • Program focus is almost exclusively on children and teenagers

The environment is fun, friendly and so well-run

5 Stars

My daughter absolutely loves her weekly dance classes! The environment is fun, friendly and so well-run. Simon is amazing with the kids, encouraging, talented and kind. She’s already taken part in two shows and it’s been a joy watching all the children perform with such confidence. A wonderful place to grow and enjoy dancing!

 Arpana Bejoy | Google Review 

Really work super hard to ensure everyone is involved! 

Both of my kids absolutely love their Simon Says Dance Classes! They look forward to them every week. All of the staff are so friendly and welcoming, and really work super hard to ensure everyone is involved! We have loved being involved in the shows, and have also had birthday parties by SSD, love it!

Emma Hutton | Google Review 

5. dance4passion – Edinburgh

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Website: https://dance4passion.co.uk/adults-dance-classes/

Address: 13 Murrayfield Avenue

Contact: 07956 771616 / 07903 893631

Hours: Dance ClassTerm Timetable

Couples preparing for their wedding showcase and adults wanting to master classic elegance will find a dedicated home at dance4passion. 

Led by internationally certified UK Alliance (UKA) instructors Frederico Ribeiro and Nuno Galante, the school provides top-tier coaching in Ballroom and Latin styles like Waltz, Tango, Cha Cha Cha, and Jive.

The classes here accommodate solo dancers without a partner, while tailored private lessons give personalised attention for fast progress. 

The welcoming atmosphere helps newcomers feel comfortable while developing poise and rhythmic balance. 

However, dancers looking for contemporary, hip-hop, or ballet will need to look elsewhere, as the curriculum focuses strictly on partner dance traditions.

Pros

  • World-class instruction from certified competitive dancers
  • No partner required to join adult group classes
  • Tailored wedding dance choreography and private coaching
  • Covers a complete list of Ballroom and Latin disciplines

Cons

  • Strictly limited to Ballroom and Latin partner dance styles

They always bring something new to each dance routine

Freddie and Nuno are talented dancers and engaging teachers. I’ve been attending their classes for years now and they always bring something new to each dance routine. The regular dance parties also let us connect with students from other classes and practice the dances.

Nima Rodrigues | Google Review 

Made the whole experience an amazing one for me

I was very lucky to have been given Freddie as my partner and teacher for a Strictly-style charity event, where I had to learn a cha cha that was to be performed in front of 150 people, in a relatively short space of time.  Freddie’s passion for dance, skill in teaching, confidence in my ability and calm demeanour made the whole experience an amazing one for me.  I therefore have no hesitation in recommending Freddie and Nuno’s dance4passion classes.

Fiona G | Google Review 

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